Week 2 Hester has been doing more than just sewing for people. She has become more dynamic and helps her society. Hester helps her society by bringing food for the poor, nursing the sick, and assists people when they are in trouble. By doing this, she is seen as a different person than before. Before, everyone just thought that she was useless because she was an adulterer, and everyone knew that because of the "A" on her dress. Now, the "A" on her dress means more of "able" than "adulterer." I believe that this is what the letter "A" really means for Hester, that she is able to do things. A lot of evidence for that is the kind of work that she does for other people. Since she doesn't have anything to lose, she might as well help others that are in need, such as the poor. Hester did not complain about the things that she went through or did, she just did things without objection. She is a strong woman, since she has been enduring all the criticism that came from her peers in the town. A lot of people have disliked her in the beginning because of her crime, but most people know her for the good deeds that she does now. That is a good thing because who would want to be known as an adulterer for the rest of their life? Everyone should deserve a second chance at life for their mistakes. The past should not define who you are. Hester should be known as a person that is able to do things that help other people and the community. She works really hard and should get recognition for that because she also has other situations to take care of, such as Pearl and keeping secrets. Even though the letter "A" might mean "able," it's original meaning is still "adulterer." So it is still best if the letter was removed to end the confusion. But in all, Hester should be known as a woman who is able to do work and should be respected. - Calvin Ko |