The History of Literature cover image

297 The Scarlet Letter

The History of Literature

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The Rose Bush of Boston

Some say this rose bush sprang up under the footsteps of the sainted Ann Hutchinson as she entered the prison door. It may serve to symbolize some sweet moral blossom that may be found along the track, or relieve the darkening clothes of a tale of human frailty and sorrow. Hawthorne says utopian communities like the Puritans of the 1620s and 30s arrive here in the new world looking for a new start. They think we'll be free. We'll have a fresh new society. One based on our beliefs will avoid oppression. This is what they're looking for. Inevitably, reality will attack and death will occur. And secondly, they will need a prison

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