Chapter 6 : Pearl

Pearl as we know is the result of the sin Hester has committed. This chapter gives us an insight on Pearl as she grows up. She is 3 at the moment but quite smart for her age. She’s bold and beautiful and most of all keeps Hester on her toes at all times. The name Pearl fits her so perfectly. She has no doubt come with a great cost to her mother. Although her mischievous actions contradict the peace and calmness I associate with a Pearl. But then again I think in the future that name will have a soothing effect on her. Also what strikes me is Pearl’s intelligence at this young age. I’d say she has a feeling that there is a story behind the ‘scarlet letter’ her mother adorns. The way Hawthorne has developed Pearl’s character so full of curiosity makes me want to believe that through her Hester’s partner in crime will be revealed. I can connect with how Hester has almost made Pearl her shadow and never goes anywhere without her. The bond between Hester and Pearl is something I can easily relate to. ‘A sportive impulse came over her during her deepest suffering’ reflects how Hester never let her emotional feelings take over something which reflects the Puritan beliefs that such worldly things never controlled them.

“Tell me! Tell me!”Repeated Pearl, no longer seriously, but laughing and capering about the floor. “It is thou that must tell me!”

I find this significant because Pearl’s constant refusal in believing in her “Heavenly father” shows that she is not easily going to be fooled into believing something she doesn’t want to believe in. Pearl also puts Hester in a confused situation because of the things she blurts out at times. It all just reflects on Pearl’s mature understanding of the atmosphere around her.