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3.19 AVERAGE
3.19 AVERAGE
dark
reflective
Reading through this for the first time, I found myself viewing the story through both the modern lens and that of 1850 when the book was originally published.
Viewed modernly, this is a waxing, dated piece rooted in a racist, Anglo, Christian-centric world view. However, it does hold some level of self awareness that recognizes these truths.. sometimes.
Viewed within the context of its publishing date, I can very much see how this was a progressive piece for the time. The empathetic light - though fraught at best - Hester is cast in is far more than women in any other story I can think of for the time.
I found it surprisingly readable and interesting.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Sexism
Worth re-reading
I kinda hated having to slog thru this in high school but decided to read along with my daughter and I actually really enjoyed all the passion in it. It’s a different environment than the modern world but all the same emotions.
I kinda hated having to slog thru this in high school but decided to read along with my daughter and I actually really enjoyed all the passion in it. It’s a different environment than the modern world but all the same emotions.
It does seem popular these days to hate this book, but I remember being fascinated by the symbolism and the society in which Hester Prynne finds herself in.
I gotta say, I really enjoyed this one! I should have read it in high school, and I did read a little of the beginning, but that was it! I had wanted to read it though when I had learned about all the symbolism in the book, and it is fantastic. The copy that I happen to have was actually used for an essay or some sort of report on it so I have notes on the symbolism while I'm reading along with it. Great book, and a good look at how morals were viewed back in that day.
Well, it wasn't nearly as confusing as the first time I read it. I liked it [smiles]
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
not an exciting book by any stretch of the imagination. the layout however was perfect for in-class discussions which i did indeed participate in. Hester, as a character was compelling but Dimmesdale's frailty was sort of disgusting to me. not a bad book, i like Hawthorne's writing style but i generally dislike reading about suppressive religions/societies. it was OK
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced