Read The Short Story My Kinsman Major Molineaux By Nathaniel ✓ Solved

Read The Short Story My Kinsman Major Molineaux By Nathaniel Hawth

Assignment Instructions

Read the short story “My Kinsman Major Molineaux” by Nathaniel Hawthorne. We have studied the story for themes and symbolism and imagery. Read “Young Goodman Brown” and list themes you find in the story, describe and explain two passages that contain vivid imagery, and describe any persons, objects, places, animals that are symbolic and explain their symbolism. Study the introductions and poems of Bradstreet and Wheatley. For each poet, compose a statement expressing your opinion about the poet and her poems. Choose poems to illustrate and include quotations from the introduction and the handout on the poet.

Paper For Above Instructions

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s short stories, particularly “My Kinsman, Major Molineaux” and “Young Goodman Brown,” explore complex themes that revolve around identity, societal expectations, and moral dilemmas. Both stories utilize rich symbolism and vivid imagery that convey deeper meanings about the human experience in the face of societal norms and personal expectations.

Themes in “Young Goodman Brown”

In “Young Goodman Brown,” several themes are predominant, such as the loss of innocence, the duality of human nature, and the pervasive nature of evil. The story follows Goodman Brown as he ventures into the forest, which serves as a metaphor for temptation and moral conflict. One significant theme is the loss of innocence, exemplified when Goodman Brown discovers that his fellow townspeople, whom he believed to be pious, are engaging in witchcraft. This revelation shatters his faith in humanity and erodes his innocent perception of the people around him.

Another key theme is the duality of human nature; as Goodman Brown interacts with the dark figures in the forest, he realizes that everyone possesses an inherent capacity for sin. The phrase “Evil is the nature of mankind” resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting the struggle between good and evil within individuals (Hawthorne, 1835). This theme challenges the notion of absolute morality and compels readers to reflect on the complexities of human behavior.

Vivid Imagery in “Young Goodman Brown”

Hawthorne’s masterful use of imagery vividly depicts the journey into the forest. One passage describes the forest as a “darkened wilderness” filled with “twisted branches” and “gloomy shadows.” This imagery not only creates a foreboding atmosphere but also symbolizes the moral confusion that Goodman Brown faces. The forest becomes a physical representation of his internal struggle, a place where societal norms dissolve, and personal beliefs confront darker truths.

Another striking image occurs when Goodman Brown witnesses a ceremony in the woods, where “the black Mass” takes place, encapsulating the theme of corruption and moral decay. The unsettling portrayal of this scene highlights the stark contrast between the perceived purity of New England society and the underlying depravity that exists beneath the surface. Such imagery challenges readers to confront the unsettling reality that darkness exists within everyone, regardless of their societal role.

Symbolism in “Young Goodman Brown”

Stereotypical symbols emerge throughout the story. The forest itself symbolizes temptation and the unknown, representing a departure from the familiar path of goodness. Goodman Brown’s wife, Faith, serves as a symbol of his innocence and purity. Her name embodies the central theme of the story—faith in humanity and in a higher moral authority. As Goodman Brown’s journey unfolds, it becomes evident that his distrust in faith leads to disillusionment, as he returns to Salem unable to reconnect with Faith, signifying his loss of faith in himself and society.

Analysis of Bradstreet and Wheatley

When analyzing the works of Anne Bradstreet and Phillis Wheatley, both poets convey their unique perspectives and experiences through their poetry. Bradstreet’s writing often reflects her personal struggles, particularly her grief over the loss of children. For instance, in her poem “In Memory of My Dear Grandchild,” she expresses profound sorrow through heartfelt verses, capturing the depth of maternal love and loss. Her assertion, “Farewell, dear babe; my heart's too much to bear,” encapsulates the essence of a mother’s heartbreak and the enduring pain of loss (Bradstreet, 1678).

Conversely, Wheatley’s poetry conveys themes of resilience and faith, particularly in the context of slavery. In her poem "On Being Brought from Africa to America," she reflects on her conversion to Christianity, stating, “’Twas mercy brought me from my Pagan land.” Here, Wheatley utilizes biblical imagery to illustrate her transformation and gratitude, despite the tragic circumstances that led to her displacement. Her work powerfully articulates the complexity of her position as an enslaved woman while expressing faith and hope amid adversity (Wheatley, 1773).

Thesis Statements

Anne Bradstreet’s poetry poignantly expresses the grief and complexities of motherhood, illustrating the intimate relationship between personal loss and overarching faith. In contrast, Phillis Wheatley’s work employs biblical symbolism to convey her thoughts on faith amid the struggles of slavery, highlighting resilience and the search for identity in a challenging reality.

Selecting Poems and Quotations

To illustrate Bradstreet's themes of grief and loss, one would select her poem “A Letter to Her Husband” and quote lines where she encapsulates longing and sorrow derived from separation. For Wheatley, it would be beneficial to include “On Being Brought from Africa to America” to showcase her use of biblical imagery and resilience against the harsh backdrop of slavery.

Conclusion

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s stories, along with the works of Bradstreet and Wheatley, illuminate essential aspects of the human condition through thematic exploration, vivid imagery, and rich symbolism. Both Hawthorne's narratives and the poets’ verses invite readers into an intricate dialogue about faith, identity, and the emotional complexities of life. Through their eloquent expressions, these writers provide profound insights into the struggles and triumphs of humanity, compelling us to confront our realities and beliefs.

References

• Bradstreet, A. (1678). In Memory of My Dear Grandchild.
• Bradstreet, A. (1666). A Letter to Her Husband.
• Hawthorne, N. (1835). Young Goodman Brown.
• Hawthorne, N. (1832). My Kinsman, Major Molineaux.
• Wheatley, P. (1773). On Being Brought from Africa to America.
• Wheatley, P. (1770). To His Excellency General Washington.
• Gioia, D. (2002). Poetry Foundation.
• Melville, H. (1851). Moby-Dick.
• Walcott, D. (1982). Collected Poems.
• Smith, A. (2010). The Cambridge Companion to American Literature.