Introduction
The Novel, Unpardonable Sin written by Hawthorne is a detailed criticism of the way of life of the Puritan. However, Hawthorne strongly believes and defends the ethical doctrines that were dictated by Puritanism. He shows that sin in its various forms has a destructive effect on the persons who commit it. There are people who commit sins and those who must receive the consequences of the decisions they make. Suppression demolishes the physical, spiritual as well as the moral fiber (Hawthorne 58). In other terms repentance together with confession brings about salvation.
Main body
Hawthorne thinks that people need to show understanding as well as love towards those who misbehave. He therefore exposes his hatred of a society which is fixedly intolerant of the people who slither from the path of the morals. The various examples of Jesus in His dealing with those who commit sin is relevant as we try to consider the worldview of Hawthorne’s as well as the general worldview of the Christians. Hawthorne shows how it is unwise to put one’s self as a judge.
Hawthorne clarifies that Jesus’ message did not mean that we should disregard or simply overlook the ethical misconduct. Judgment has to be passed against sin inform of disciplinary action against the evil and unacceptable behavior. As individuals or group we have the right to criticize sin whenever it takes place (Strain 55). According to Hawthorne, incase no one would be able to judge others then trials would not be there for the breaching of the law, therefore no court system and justice. Therefore, generally no punishment will be instituted. A type of society which is not able to judge its members for the infringement of the regulations would eventually descend into chaos as well as self-destruct (Hawthorne 112)
The novel forbids judgmentalism and not judgment. Judgmentalism involves the feelings of conceit through which one assumes the air of superiority over other people and constantly getting engaged in criticism, faulting other and ignoring the same faults in oneself. There is need for a spirit of love together with compassion. The nature of forgiveness as well as grace must characterize the kind of treatment towards those who fault.
Hawthorne clearly points out that though sin that is exposed and also confessed frees the mind of the sinner, and usually brings a certain level of transformation in one’s life, one that is hidden is likely to cause damage and fatality. This is shown when Arthur Dimmesdale suffers within the period of seven years of quietness. The starting point of his anguish is the kind of remorse he expresses for his seen. Guiltiness consumes his very soul make threats to destroy him. And regarding the relationship that exists between the mind and the body, Grief, distrust as well as discontent try to break the life forces and to attract decomposition and demise (Hawthorne 150).
The effect of sin on the character is presented by Hawthorne. According to him, he sinners gain greater understanding as a result. The efficiency of Dimmesdale’s teachings is evidence to his marvelous insight into the nature of the human being. His own weaknesses seem to make him a little bit more understanding (Hughes 220).
Above all, it is through Hester that Hawthorn brings about the greater consideration owing to sin. The scarlet of sin teaches people to be in position to recognize sin in others and to look with sympathy into the hearts of others without destroying personal faith.
Works cited
Hawthorne Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter: Unpardonable Sin. United Kingdom: Modern Library, 2000.
Strain John Newton. The Unpardonable Sin. Oxford: The Gorham press, 1956.
Hughes Rupert. The Unpardonable Sin: A Novel. Liverpool: Harper & Brothers, 1989.