Students examine symbols, study characterization, analyze point of view, explore setting, and discuss themes. They try to replicate Hawthorne’s writing style, write to various audiences, and respond to literary criticism. They also keep a reader-response journal, predict the outcome, and rewrite the ending.

Supplementary materials include reading checks with answer keys and essay topics.

Literary Form

• American Novel

21st-Century Skills

• Collaboration
• Critical thinking
• Social and cross-cultural skills
• Productivity and accountability
• Leadership and responsibility
• Initiative and self-direction 

Overview

The Scarlet Letter deals with the effects of sin, guilt, conscience, suffering, isolation, punishment, redemption, and passion for revenge. The action is set in New England in the seventeenth century, prompting discussion about how concepts and attitudes change over time. Today’s readers may have difficulty understanding why Hester Prynne endures the punishment for adultery, instead of fleeing with her daughter, Pearl, to a place where neither her past nor her sin are known.

Includes 10 lesson plans and 30 handouts.

Grades 9–12. High school. Reproducible. 78 pages.  ­

Book Download: PDF. Adobe® Reader® required to view PDF.

Print Book: Spiral-bound. 8 x 11 inches.