In the novel written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, secret sin is a theme used throughout. Though the book was adapted in the 1800’s of young America, the setting takes place in the New World of an early colonial town. In the novel, The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne uses the Scarlet Letter, Pearl and Black Blossom to symbolize secret sin. First the Scarlet Letter is used by Nathaniel to contribute to the theme of secret sin. The Scarlet Letter is a large bright red A worn by Hester Prynne, the protagonist of the story. The Scarlet Letter symbolizes the Puritan sin of Adultery and has a negative effect on Hester and her relationship within society. Hawthorne says “... embroidered and inominated upon her bosom had the effect of a spell, taking her
