How Does Lawrence Criticize And Mocks Hester Prynne

In his work “On the Scarlet Letter,” D.H. Lawrence criticizes and mocks Hester Prynne. Lawrence uses this work to analyze her character and act of adultery, ultimately labeling the woman as a shameful sinner. He looks past any sympathy built up by Nathaniel Hawthorne, instead showing the adulteress off as an evil and deceptive individual. The critic is effective in conveying Hester’s demeaning portrayal by using disparaging diction, a sarcastically insulting tone, and biblical allusions. Lawrence’s use of belittling diction stresses the values he holds for Hester’s wicked character. He stops at nothing to tarnish her image, at one point stating, “Oh Hester, you are a demon” (Lawrence). Lawrence rejects Hawthorne’s biased perspective and lays

He examines her act of adultery, coming to the conclusion that “[Hester] tickled [Dimmesdale] in the right place, and he fell… Flop goes spiritual love” (Lawrence). Methodically, Lawrence is able to piece out a sequence that describes what has played out between the two lovers. Done sarcastically, it works in a way that provokes a reaction out of the reader. Nonetheless, he mocks the couple, pointing out that Hester purposely ruined Dimmesdale and his pure character. Instead of being depicted as the victim that Hawthorne envisions her to be, Lawrence uses this line to point Hester out as a villain. He further suggests that “when Hester Prynne seduced Arthur Dimmesdale, it was the beginning of the end” (Lawrence). Using vile insults, Lawrence further implies that it is Hester’s fault for causing everything to fall apart. Initiating the romance, she was at blame for when everything turned for the worst. In this case, he states it figuratively, exaggerating the idea that her actions would doom them all for the end. By using this derogatory tone, readers get the idea of the values that Lawrence holds for the