The Scarlet Letter
Open Library readers: 3.42 / 5 from 133 ratings. Separate from ratings here.Catalogue checked 2026-10-02.
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.
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Editions
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About The Scarlet Letter
A few practical answers before choosing a copy.
Bibliographic source: Open Library- Who wrote The Scarlet Letter?
The Scarlet Letter is by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The catalogue records its first publication in 1800. A later edition may have a different publication date on its copyright page.
- How long is The Scarlet Letter?
The catalogue records 272 pages for a representative edition. Pagination varies with the publisher, format, type size and translation, so check the edition you intend to read.
