The main characters of “The Black Man” Essay

In Chapter 3, Hawthorne uses contradicting diction to describe the "stranger" using words such as "remarkable intelligence" yet he is also described as having a "slight [physical] deformity" (56). This use of diction gives the reader the sense that the stranger is intellectual yet flawed in appearance. The authors depiction of the stranger's asymmetrical figure provokes an ominous and sinister outlook. When the man recognizes Hester standing alone on the scaffold, "a writhing horror twisted itself across his features, like a snake gliding swiftly over them . . ." (57). The person who should ease Hester the most at this time, her husband, proves to makes her feel uneasy and alone. To further emphasize the character's contrary demeanor, Hawthorne dresses him in "heterogeneous garb" He is dressed in "a strange disarray of civilized and savage costume" (56). Ultimately, Hawthorne anticipates that his audience will comprehend how unique and intricate the stranger is and consequently how he can further develop the story later on.
In paragraph 15 thru 17 of chapter 9 Hawthorne uses menacing diction toward Mr. Chillingworth to compare him to a satanical being. For example, he is described as " had undergone a remarkable change while he dwelt in town, and especially since his abode with Mr. Dimmesdale." (116) After suddenly discovering of Hester's infidelity and the love child, Chillingworth becomes fixed on revenge for being maltreated. This decision to get revenge rather than the Christian choice of charity and good will towards other, has torn him down and he is becoming smug and evil. In addition, he has shifted from "calm, meditative, scholar-like" to "[having] something ugly and evil in his face" (116) Chillingworth has become so wrapped up in revenge that he has become more of a character doing the devil's bidding. Once he comes to Boston, he can only be found in situations that involve his obsession with vengeance. Ultimately, he is referred with "Satan's emissary, in the guise of Roger Chilling worth." (116) Hawthorne does this to show how Chillingworth's hatred drives his demise.
In paragraph 17-22 of chapter 10 shows the symbolism of The Black Man in many different ways The Black Man is a euphemism for Satan in this book. Pearl declares aloud that the Black Man has left his brand on Dimmesdale's heart. "He [Black Man] hath got hold of the minister already" (122). Hawthorne constantly compares Chillingworth towards Satan as well. By beseeching Satan, Hawthorne proposes the question of whether individuals are inherently good or evil, and whether people honestly choose to be an evil entity. If they should choose to write their names in the scarlet blood upon the Black Man's book, or whether immoral actions happen by misfortune, like Hester and Dimmesdale's love affair. In chapter 10, Hawthorne additionally develops a significant thematic purpose by establishing a steady connection between the body and the soul, the external representation of the internal character. It leads to perceiving that the major characters are more important as symbols rather than people.