[twinzmommy]

I *just* re-read "The Scarlet Letter" in a college senior-level English class -- American Fiction. I was STUNNED at the difference in my personal perception of the story as an adult. Living a life -- having a marriage and children -- makes a world of difference in one's perceptions and observations of Hester Prynne and the choices she makes.

I also learned tons more about Hawthorne, as well as Una. We read TSL as it related to Antonomian Controversy of 1636-1638 (and Hester essentially becoming Anne Hutchinson, Pearl being "the monstrous birth" and a slap at John Winthrop). Following the reading and discussion though, we read "The Faerie Queen" (Spencer) -- it was the first book that Hawthorne purchased with his own money.

In "The Faerie Queen" he read of Una. . .Una being the one true faith. She comes about in book 2 with the Redcrosse knight. Rather interesting read about doubt, perception and reality.

Hawthorne I believe was a brilliant man in so many ways. Glad to see his wife and Una brought back to rest with him. Fascinating family.

~B.

[bkepley]

--Hawthorne I believe was a brilliant man in so many ways.

And a conservative by nature.

[cloud8]

> Living a life -- having a marriage and children -- makes a world of difference in one's perceptions and observations of Hester Prynne and the choices she makes.

So true!

What else was on your syllabus?

[my_pointy_head_is_sharp]

I *just* re-read "The Scarlet Letter" in a college senior-level English class -- American Fiction. I was STUNNED at the difference in my personal perception of the story as an adult.

I also just recently reread it. I agree. This type of story is wasted at the junior high school level.

Here's a link for anyone who would like to reread it:

Click here or here.