Scarlet Letter

I think the letter stands for adultery, but more than that, a deep sin, almost like a scar on someone's life. Knowing the meaning behind the letter will allow you to look at the letter a different way. The people of Boston view the letter as a symbol of sin and shame, failure to comply with the rules of their society. Hester views the letter a little differently. Not only does she see the horrible act she committed, she sees the wonderful gift she got, Pearl. Pearl isn't quite sure what the letter stands for, but she knows that something is different by people's reactions.