Young children ran heedlessly before Hester to the scaffold in The Scarlet Letter

Main Message of The Scarlet Letter

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a novel that explores themes of shame and social stigmatization. Throughout the story, characters are subjected to these societal judgments that affect their lives in significant ways.

Event in Chapter 2

In chapter 2 of The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne, the protagonist, leaves the jail and is led to the scaffold in the town square to face public humiliation. As she makes her way to the scaffold, young children run heedlessly before her, showcasing the innocence of youth in contrast to Hester's shame and guilt.

This event highlights the juxtaposition of innocence and sin, as well as the impact of public shame on individuals in the Puritan community. It sets the tone for the rest of the novel, emphasizing the harsh judgment and scrutiny faced by those who deviate from societal norms.