Rubric

Complete outline in correct format _______ (5)

Original ideas and quotes ___________ (10)

Fully developed and accurate analysis _____________ (30)

Effective thesis ______________ (10)

Effective topic sentences ____________ (10)

Unity, focus, transitions, coherence _______________ (20)

Grammar and mechanics _______________ (05)

Sentence structure and vocabulary ___________ (10)

Possible Essay Questions for Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter

You will be given two of the following essay prompts and asked to select one.

In what ways is private guilt more destructive than public guilt? Connect to at least one present day example in the news or your own life.
Hawthorne seems to suggest that the past will inevitably impinge on the present. In what ways, according to the allegory of The Scarlet Letter, might man transform or transcend the destructive influence of the past? Connect to at least one present day example in the news or your own life.
Some critics have argued that throughout most of The Scarlet Letter Pearl functions more as a literary device than as a three-dimensional character. Name one abstract quality that Pearl might be said to symbolize. What three characteristics does Pearl share with this quality? Can you think of an iconic figure in our own American society (Obama, Oprah, Mickey Mouse…) who also functions as a symbol of an American quality? What quality does this iconic figure symbolize? Compare the role Pearl plays in the story with the role your chosen iconic figure plays in 21^st century American society.
Some readers associate Hester Prynne with the concept of the fortunate fall. What gifts or blessings might Hester be said to gain from her sin? How does each gift improve her character? Describe a similarly “fortunate fall” you or someone else has had and the blessings this fall has brought.
Although Dimmesdale and Chillingworth are clearly distinct characters, they share common psychological elements. In what ways are their characters and behavior similar? Be careful not to state the obvious or present plot summary. Connect these men to an icon in modern American society (someone who is famous, has sinned, feels guilty, and attempts to cover their sin up) who shares these distinct characteristics.
America is based on the emigrant mentality -- a place of tolerance where different people from around the globe with different backgrounds and traditions can co-mingle AND start over. In the Scarlet Letter, the main character was branded for her trespasses, although those who were equally guilty were not. How does hypocrisy fit into the American Dream? Connect Hester’s story with at least one modern example of someone who has been marginalized due to society’s hypocrisy and/or intolerance.