The Guillotine and the American Public: A Godwinian Reading of The Scarlet Letter

£6.99

Symbiosis 4.2 152-72
Author: Sohui Lee

Pages: 24

This micro-ebook, "The Guillotine and the American Public: A Godwinian Reading of ‘The Scarlet Letter’" by Sohui Lee, provides an insightful analysis of Nathaniel Hawthorne's classic novel through the lens of William Godwin's political and social critiques. Originally published in Symbiosis: a Journal of Anglo-American Literary Relations, this essay explores the deep connections between Hawthorne's narrative and Godwin's radical ideas, offering a unique perspective on how historical and political contexts influenced literary expression. This edition is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of American literature, political criticism, and historical influences on literary works.

Symbiosis 4.2 152-72
Author: Sohui Lee

Pages: 24

Essay Excerpt

"While the politics of The Scarlet Letter (1850) have been traced to Hawthorne’s Salem Custom House dismissal in 1848, this essay argues that Hawthorne situates his experience among deeper institutional problems that shape existing American polity, and that his treatment is analogous to William Godwin’s critique of British government in Things as They Are; or the Adventures of Caleb Williams (1793). Hawthorne avidly read Godwin, who was popular in America. In 1820, the young author wrote enthusiastically to his sister, ‘I have read Hoggs Tales, Caleb Williams, St. Leon & Mandeville. I admire Godwin’s novels, and intend to read them all […] Next to Waverly, I like Caleb Williams.’"