Scarlet Letter Discussion Questions

www.studyguide.org/scarlet_letter_guide.htm

Go to website, discuss questions, post a group response.

The Scarlet Letter Questions for Study and Discussion

The Scarlet Letter is one of the greatest works by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Here are a few questions for study and discussion.

• What is important about the title?
  
• What are the conflicts in The Scarlet Letter? What types of conflict (physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional) are in this novel?
  
• How does Nathaniel Hawthorne reveal character in The Scarlet Letter?
  
• What are some themes in the story? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
  
• What are some symbols in The Scarlet Letter? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
  
• Is Hester consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How? Why?
  
• Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters persons you would want to meet?
  
• Does the story end the way you expected? How? Why?
  
• What is the central/primary purpose of the story? Is the purpose important or meaningful?
  
• How does this novel relate to feminist literature? Is Hester a strong female character?
  
• How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
  
• What is the role of women in the text? How are mothers represented? What about single/independent women?
  
• Would you recommend this novel to a friend?