Imagery and Irony in The Scarlet Letter Nathaniel Hawthorne, the author of The Scarlet Letter, uses a variety of literary techniques to produce energy and pique the reader's interest. Create the atmosphere and climax of the novel using the techniques of imagery and irony. However, it is the use of symbolism that truly characterizes the novel. The abundance of symbolism appears in many different forms, adding interest to the novel. For example, Hawthorne uses his characters, such as Pearl, as symbols; “It was the scarlet letter in another form, the scarlet letter with life.” (Ch. VII page 103) The pearl is a symbol of Hester and Dimmesdale's sin. It serves as constant punishment and living conscience. Additionally, Hawthorne uses natural events such as light and darkness as symbols by only having Dimmesdale stand on the scaffold at night. Darkness, therefore, is a symbol of the concealment of sin, and light becomes a symbol of truth and the acceptance of guilt. The use of light and darkness occurs many times in the novel to place emphasis on the underlying moral. Additionally, Hawthorne uses everyday objects, such as the stream in the forest, as symbols. Pearl refused to cross the stream and join her mother on the other side, making the stream a symbol of the border between the two worlds of truth and deception. This natural setting is one of the most surprising in the novel. Using symbolism in these three forms (characters, natural events and simple objects) Has... middle of paper... better if it were that way, rather than hiding a guilty heart all your life. What can thy silence do for him, but tempt him, yea, compel him, as it were, to add hypocrisy to sin? (Ch. III page 73) One of the strengths of Hawthorne's novel is his use of dramatic irony. To the townspeople, this passage appears to be a breathtaking speech that would make any sinner confess, when in truth Dimmesdale is pleading with Hester to reveal his sin. Irony in the novel establishes the conflict and dismay of the climax. Hawthorne's use of the three literary techniques of symbolism, imagery, and irony are what makes his novel a masterpiece. Using these three techniques, it allows the reader to find inspiration and morality, visualize the plot, and immerse themselves in the work itself..