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This analysis explores the first sermon Mr. Hooper gives while wearing the veil and the changes in his relationships over time. It also examines the cultural characteristics revealed in the story, the symbolism of the black veil, and the use of irony. Additionally, it delves into the ambiguity of Mr. Hooper's character and the motivations behind the discomfort of the villagers. Lastly, it explores the personal motives of Nathaniel Hawthorne in his critical portrayal of Puritan culture.
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After Reading Comprehension 1. RECALL What is the topic of the first sermon Mr. Hooper gives while wearing the veil? The sermon topic is secret sin. 2. RECALLWhat reason does Mr. Hooper give Elizabeth for wearing the veil? Mr. Hooper never gives a straight answer, but says that the veil is a symbol that he must always wear. . . .continued
After Reading Comprehension continued 3. SUMMARIZE As time goes by, how do Mr. Hooper’s relationships change? The first change is that Mr. Hooper goes from being respected and loved to being feared and avoided. Over time, however, people seek him out. They think that he is intimate with sin and therefore can help them deal with their own sins. . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis 4. IDENTIFY CULTURAL CHARACTERISTICS What does the story reveal about Puritan religious beliefs, rules of behavior, and values and ideals? The story reveals the importance of Sunday worship (lines 1–9); the importance of rank (lines 92–98); the prevalence of gossip (lines 85–91 and 105–114) and superstition (lines 125–129 and 150–152); an obsession with sin (lines 73–78 and 230–232); and hypocrisy (lines 379–387). Students may suggest that some of these traits are not limited to Puritan culture. . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued 5. INTERPRET SYMBOL Review the concept map you created as you read. Based on this information, what does the black veil represent? Explain your answer. The veil may be a symbol of sin. Mr. Hooper makes people feel that their wicked thoughts are known (lines 73–76 and 192–194). He implies such an interpretation in lines 227–228, 237–238, and 384–387. . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued 6. ANALYZE IRONY To highlight his criticisms of Puritan society, Hawthorne uses verbal irony, where what is stated differs from what is really meant. In each of the following examples, explain what is ironic about the narrator’s comments. What behavior, value, or belief is being criticized? • Squire Saunders’s insult to Mr. Hooper (lines 98–100) • wild rumors (lines 125–129) • the deputation’s visit to the minister (lines 195–199) • Mr. Hooper’s new reputation (lines 295–297) . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued Irony: Squire Saunders does not have an “accidental lapse of memory”; he does not want to invite Mr. Hooper. Criticism: social hypocrisy, concern with appearances, fear of public opinion. Irony: A “superstitious old woman” is not a reliable witness of an alleged supernatural event. Criticism: credulity, gossip, and superstition. Irony: The matter is not “too weighty”; the deputations fail because of their fear. Criticism: failures of leaders ruled by their own fear, which they can’t admit. Irony: As Mr. Hooper becomes more distant and less human to his congregation, he becomes more efficient. Criticism: Fear, not love or goodness, drives the Puritans’ religious beliefs. . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued 7. EXAMINE CHARACTER AMBIGUITY The minister is an ambiguous character: he can be seen as an innocent victim of others’ fears or as a man driven to isolate himself, convinced of his own moral superiority. Identify at least two details that support each perspective. Which interpretation do you find more compelling? Give reasons for your answer. Innocent victim: He remains a good, kind person; he begs Elizabeth not to leave him (lines 251–256). Arrogant isolationist: He chooses to wear the veil (lines 220–224); he refuses to offer a clear explanation of it (lines 220–240). . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued 8. MAKE JUDGMENTS ABOUT CHARACTER MOTIVATIONS Mr. Hooper’s wearing of the black veil leads to his estrangement from his congregation. Based on the following passages, what argument would you make about the real causes of the villagers’ discomfort in the minister’s presence? • the first sighting of the minister (lines 34–39) • parishioners’ comments after services (lines 105–113) • his arrival at the wedding (lines 147–152) • the attempt to confront him (lines 190–197) . . .continued
After Reading Literary Analysis continued The villagers’ discomfort is caused by their own fears, which lead them to be intolerant of differences and to see sin and evil everywhere. . . .continued
After Reading Literary Criticism 9. BIOGRAPHICAL CONTEXT Reread the biography of Hawthorne on page 456. Explain the personal motives that inspired Hawthorne’s critical portrayal of Puritan culture. In what ways might Mr. Hooper represent Hawthorne’s struggle with his own guilt? Hawthorne was critical because he felt guilty about having a Puritan ancestor who was an intolerant persecutor. Mr. Hooper might represent Hawthorne’s struggle in that both are aware of flaws in Puritan culture but are unable to escape them.
