The Scarlet Letter: Book Guide, Author and Facts
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne — plot, author, genre and where to read, in one evergreen guide.

A stark and allegorical tale of adultery, guilt, and social repression in Puritan New England, The Scarlet Letter is a foundational work of American literature. Nathaniel Hawthorne's exploration of the dichotomy between the public and private self, internal passion and external convention, gives us the unforgettable Hester Prynne, who discovers strength in the face of ostracism and emerges as a heroine ahead of her time.
Quick facts about The Scarlet Letter
- Title: The Scarlet Letter
- Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne
- First published: 1800
- Genre: fiction, puritans, puritans in fiction
- OpenLibrary ID: OL455305W
Where to read The Scarlet Letter
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is widely available in print, ebook and audiobook editions from major retailers and libraries.
Compiled from public OpenLibrary data. Availability and details can change over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is The Scarlet Letter about?
A stark and allegorical tale of adultery, guilt, and social repression in Puritan New England, The Scarlet Letter is a foundational work of American literature.
Who wrote The Scarlet Letter?
The Scarlet Letter was written by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
When was The Scarlet Letter published?
The Scarlet Letter was first published in 1800.



