Symbolism is a device that Nathaniel Hawthorne takes full advantage of in his literary works. Through the use of both characters and material objects, Hawthorne achieves similar themes. Writing from an era of Puritans, his themes are present in the form of Puritanism, the struggle of good against evil, and loads of love. Hawthorne's central focus in “Young Goodman Brown,” “The May-Pole of Merry Mount,” and “The Minister's Black Veil” are stories that evoke feelings toward the sins of man. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay “Young Goodman Brown” tells the story of a man who wants to be good, hence his name. He holds on to both his literal and figurative faith, the literal one being his wife. Faith, as a concept, has characteristics of innocence, purity, and is often associated with religion or strong feelings; therefore, he continually expects his wife to be pure of heart and devoted. With pink bows and a heady homey personality, Faith should be the perfect symbol of figurative faith. As long as the faith remains pious, Goodman believes it is possible for him to be so too; However, appearance isn't everything. Even those who seem the most innocent can be corrupted, including: Faith, an old man who turns out to be the Devil, and her family. When Goodman discovers that sin resides in the heart of man, he turns away from his literal and figurative faith. “The May-Pole of Merry Mount” is a story of joy filled with sin and love. The inhabitants of Merry Mount are frivolous and witty; Puritans are reserved, sensitive, and hold a set of expectations for everyone. It is unknown which group represents good and which represents evil. It depends on the reader's perspective; however, one symbol is clear. Edith and Edgar of Merry Mount are a symbol of love. They have a love that impresses even Endicott, the leader of the Puritan group. Even in the battle between good and evil, regardless of the heart, humanity remains. In "The Minister's Black Veil", a man named Parson Hooper willingly admits his sins while wearing a black veil. The citizens see this sudden use of the veil as a way of wearing her sin. To think: a minister who sins! It is difficult for people to accept that even a man of God has a certain degree of “evil” in his heart. It makes the townspeople and even Hooper's girlfriend uncomfortable; Parish Priest Hooper, however, pledges to wear the veil until the end of his days. This represents how sin never truly leaves a man. One might infer that citizens recognize that everyone wears a black headscarf, and this is what makes them uncomfortable. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essay Sin and the influence of evil everyone in some way. The psychological effects are different for everyone. Some choose to accept it, like Parson Hooper. Some people find good in it, like Endicott. Some choose to escape and are consumed by it, like Goodman Brown.