What Does The Scaffold Symbolize In The Scarlet Letter

People change depending on the environment or setting that they are placed in. In the Scarlet Letter the characters switch their personalities based on where they are placed. The scaffold, forest and marketplace are all places where the characters experience differences in themselves and each other. The scaffold symbolizes the humility and shame of sin, love, and punishment. There are three scaffold scenes that appear at the beginning, middle, and the end of the story. It sorts out the main characters from the rest of the people. At the scaffold guilt and redemption are symbolized. The scaffold affects the people and story in many different ways. The effects can be for the better or the worse. The first scene appears at the beginning of the …show more content…
He attempts to gain the perspective Hester had in order to feel the same emotions and embarrassment when she was forced on the scaffold. Meanwhile, Hester and Pearl are walking home and recognize Dimmesdale. They go and join him on the scaffold. Here they hold hands and are together for the moment. At this time, the scaffold represents a safe place from the judgment of the colony. All of a sudden, a meteor then lights of the night sky, causing Dimmesdale to see a scarlet letter trail. This represents the guilt that he feels inside. Chillingworth is also revealed when the night is lit up. He has a look of hatefulness on his face when he looks at Dimmesdale. Chillingworth takes Dimmesdale back to the reality of the situation. At this moment, Chillingworth is seen as a villain, and Dimmesdale as part of a family. The last scaffold seen is the final part of the story. Everyone is focusing on Hester scarlet letter. The looks of the people cause a burn that is more painful than before on Hester's chest. After his sermon, Dimmesdale calls upon Hester and Pearl to join him. He confesses to his sin, and relieves himself of his guilt. Chillingworth looses his victim that he had punished