This paragraph within the introduction of “The Scarlet Letter” is essential for the establishment of the plot. In this paragraph, the author identifies one of the key symbols within the story: the scarlet letter A that Hester Prynne wears upon her bosom. Assuming that this paragraph was not included within the Custom House Introductory, the reader would not be able to identify the inspiration behind “The Scarlet Letter”. Additionally, the reader would not understand the reason behind creating a story based around something as arbitrary as a red letter A. Even though this paragraph creates a basic understanding as to the origin of the scarlet letter, some information is still left out. Despite that the following paragraphs addresses more about
