Hester Prynne; The Infamous Yet, Exemplary Mother Essay, Research Paper

Hester Prynne; The Infamous Yet, Exemplary MotherHenry W. Beecher once wrote, “There is no slave out of heaven like a loving woman,…there is no such slave as a mother.” Little did Henry Beecher know of the future generations of younger women, who would be “slaving” diligently to provide for their children. Furthermore, many modern day teenage mothers are dedicating themselves to the task of parenting without the benefit of marriage or the support of the child’s father. On account of theses things The Scarlet Letter is relevant to teenage parents today because, reading this novel will teach to count their blessings, and serve as an example of how to handle responsibility, as well as how to conduct oneself with dignity in the face of adversity.Until very recently, teenage pregnancy was looked upon as an almost unspeakable stigma. Fortunately, teens nowadays who are going through the trials and tribulations of parenting have more options, and support systems in their communities to which they can turn. During the time period in which The Scarlet Letter is set, having a child before marriage is considered “an open ignominy.” [sl03.html#g26]On the contrary, in today’s society, seeing young unwed mothers is commonplace. Reading about Hester Prynne’s “misfortune and the ignominy in which she was enveloped,” [sl02.html#g11] would illustrate for these young mothers and fathers that in comparison to past history, modern society is more forgiving and willing to assist them if they only reach out for aide. Hester and Reverend Dimmesdale have little to no acceptable alternatives after the birth of their daughter Pearl. Beyond an appreciation for the guidance offered to adolescent parents these young adults can also find an excellent example of how to deal with the responsibility of being a parent, and how not dealing with this duty only leads to more trouble as in the case of Arthur Dimmesdale’s denial of the truth. Hester’s loving attention to Pearl, even when she is befuddled by the emotions and troubling aspects of her situation demonstrates the selfishness that being a responsible mother of father requires. Hester even promises Govenor Bellingham that Pearl would learn “lessens whereof…(Pearl) may be wiser and better…” [sl08.html#g13] for Hester’s sin.

Above all the other benefits of reading The Scarlet Letter, the moral and confident character which Hester displays in the midst of turmoil is a perfect example of how young parents should conduct themselves when surrounded by problems. For instance, throughout the novel Hester lives by a code of truth and reacts to those whom oppose her with humility and grace. Hester also uses persistence and skill to deminish her degraded status; furthermore, she creates a productive niche for herself by utilizing her talents. Before long, the Puritans whom cast her out begin to brag “Do you see that women…It is our Hester…who is so kind to the poor, so helpful to the sick, so comfortable to the afflicted!” [sl13.html#g05]Resourceful Hester truly acts as a role model to any teenage mothers and fathers needing something or someone with which to empathize. Thus, I would strongly recommend to anyone who is about to struggle with the difficult issues teen pregnancy brings up that they read The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Not only will this book give them a sense of relief that they do not have to suffer severe punishment for having illegitimate children and also give a strong example of how to follow through with their duties in life. Last but not least, reading The Scarlet Letter will demonstrate to adolescent parents ways to live useful lives though problems do arise.