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A review by hadeanstars
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
3.0
I just about liked this book, but it wasn't easy to like. The style is ponderous, involved and there's not much going on. The enjoyment is all in the subtle (albeit dated) observations of interaction between the 4 main characters. Despite its creakiness there is real observational genius in the personality of Chillingworth, warped by his controlling need for revenge and too in Dimmesdale's moral cowardice. Hester and Pearl are the 'strong' characters in this tale, the women are strong, the men weak!
But it's NOT easy to read. Almost nothing happens, and all the 'action' is bound up in a few intense, but understated exchanges between Hester and either Dimmesdale or Chillingworth. Hester makes for a very admirable woman, and she grows into her conviction and power quite magnificently. That's the joy of it. I won't read any more Hawthorne though, one in a lifetime is enough!
But it's NOT easy to read. Almost nothing happens, and all the 'action' is bound up in a few intense, but understated exchanges between Hester and either Dimmesdale or Chillingworth. Hester makes for a very admirable woman, and she grows into her conviction and power quite magnificently. That's the joy of it. I won't read any more Hawthorne though, one in a lifetime is enough!