Scarlet Letter Title Meaning

A name is not just an ordinary word; in fact, it is one that holds a deeper and powerful meaning, which is why writers take a great deal of time to construct the “perfect” name. A character’s name, which is so important to the formation of a novel, possesses strength to control the flow of a story and offers an insight into the truth about a character. It can identify the personality, appearance, and behaviors of a character. In some instances, such as The Scarlet Letter, a name can foreshadow future actions and events. Since names provide information on the aspects of a character, it helps a reader to establish his or her perception of a character. By analyzing a symbolic name, the readers can grasp a better understanding of the overall meaning …show more content…
With this intention in mind, Hawthorne chose her name to symbolize the gem, the pearl, after which she is named. A pearl is a rare gem that evolves from a single grain of sand to transform into a beautiful stone. Although the pearl is aesthetically amusing to gaze at, it initially transformed inside an unsightly clam. In The Scarlet Letter, Pearl represents a metaphor for the gemstone. Pearl herself characterizes this valued gem since she possesses the qualities of a “rich and luxuriant beauty – a beauty that [shines] with deep and vivid tints [and] a bright complexion . . . ” (Hawthorne 92). The value and rarity of the gem also describe Pearl’s unique behavior and appearance as well as her depiction as “an imp, a demonic child, [and] a witch” (McPherson). Despite Pearl’s beautiful appearance, she is conceived by a corrupted person who is blackened by the influences of guilt and sin – the unsightly clam. Not only does Pearl’s name symbolize her status as the product of a guilty crime, but also the representation of Hester’s sin. Pearl becomes the physical proof of Hester’s suffering and contributes to bringing her mother’s misery to existence. During the several years of Hester’s exclusion from society, she had to sacrifice her virtue and reputation within the community for the sake of Pearl’s life. Just like the actual gem, Pearl came at a “great price …show more content…
In this name, the words “chill” and “worth” can be detected. The word “chill” suggests Chillingworth’s cold personality and his dark and evil intentions. After discovering Hester’s adulterous affair with another man, Chillingworth is determined to seek revenge on Hester’s illicit lover. To torture Hester’s lover (Dimmesdale), he resorts to psychological methods. Chillingworth attaches to Dimmesdale, like a leech, and does not offer any space. He also uses his position as a physician to manipulate the minister. Through manipulation, Chillingworth hopes to achieve entry into Dimmesdale’s heart to uncover the secret. Chillingworth’s name also represents his deformed body that gives people the “chill” when they see his mutated figure. Roger Chillingworth’s wickedness is symbolized through his deformity and his “face that haunted men’s memories longer than they liked . . . ” (Hawthorne, 158). The more Chillingworth seeks revenge, the more gruesome and malicious he appears. When Chillingworth places his hand upon the minister’s heart, Dimmesdale shudders at the pain, and Chillingworth reveals a “look of wonder, joy and horror . . . through the whole ugliness of his figure” (Hawthorne, 126). At this moment, Chillingworth transforms into a devilish-like figure, but some may even say that he becomes the Black Man