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Syntax In Scarlet Letter

Decent Essays

D.H. Lawrence provides an effective critical analysis of Hester Prynne from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter. He criticizes Hawthorne’s portrayal of the story’s protagonist, which negatively affects the way readers view her. Lawrence’s writing targets Prynne as a seductive woman with vile intentions. D.H. Lawrence’s critical analysis is effective because he uses literary devices such as succinct syntax, a sarcastic tone, and biblical allusions in his analysis of Hester Prynne. Lawrence’s succinct syntax is effective in making rapid, direct jabs at Hawthorne’s characterization of Hester Prynne. For instance, Lawrence strengthens his argument by saying, “The fiery heart. A. Mary of the Bleeding Heart. Mater Adoleratal A. Capital A. Adulteress. Glittering with gold thread. Abel! Adultery. Admirable!” (Lawrence). Lawrence’s purpose with this syntax is to capture the reader’s attention with the organization of the words. He executes this effectively because each phrase in the list holds a deeper significance that relates them to Hester Prynne. Additionally, Lawrence utilizes repetition in his syntax: “Adulteress. Alpha. Abel, Adam. A. America” (Lawrence). The alliteration of the letter A is significant because he addresses possible alternative meanings for the scarlet letter. These words are insults to the character of Hester Prynne and they are effective because they make the reader have to search for hidden meanings. For example, the word “Abel” is a biblical

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