The Year the Classic Novel ‘The Scarlet Letter’ Was Penetrating the Literary World
What year was the Scarlet Letter written? This question often arises among readers who are fascinated by the rich historical context and intricate themes of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel. The answer, surprisingly, is not as straightforward as one might think. Hawthorne’s masterpiece, published in 1850, is set in the 17th century, a period of intense religious fervor and social unrest in the American colonies. However, the actual writing process spanned several years, and the novel was influenced by various factors that shaped Hawthorne’s perspective on the past and the present.
The novel’s writing began in 1849, when Hawthorne was living in England. At that time, he was deeply affected by the social and political turmoil occurring in Europe, which he believed mirrored the struggles taking place in America. The year 1849 was also significant because it marked the centennial of the Mayflower’s arrival in the New World, a milestone that inspired Hawthorne to delve into the historical roots of his country’s founding.
As Hawthorne began to research the 17th-century Puritan settlements, he was particularly intrigued by the story of Hester Prynne, the protagonist of The Scarlet Letter. Hester’s experiences as a woman living in a male-dominated society, her struggle with sin and redemption, and her resilience in the face of societal judgment became central themes in the novel. The year 1849 was also pivotal for Hawthorne’s personal life, as he was dealing with the death of his friend and mentor, Washington Irving, which further deepened his contemplation of mortality and the human condition.
In 1850, after completing the first draft of the novel, Hawthorne submitted The Scarlet Letter to his publisher, James T. Fields. The novel was published in March of that year, coinciding with the bicentennial of the Mayflower’s arrival. Hawthorne’s choice to release the novel during this anniversary was not merely a marketing strategy but also a reflection of his belief in the importance of understanding one’s historical roots.
What year was the Scarlet Letter written? The answer lies in the complex interplay of historical events, personal experiences, and the author’s artistic vision. The novel’s writing process spanned several years, and its publication in 1850 marked the culmination of Hawthorne’s exploration of the past and his commentary on the present. Today, The Scarlet Letter remains a powerful and thought-provoking work that continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes and intricate narrative.
