Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804–1864) was an American novelist and short story writer celebrated for his dark Romanticism and Exploration of moral complexity and Sin. His notable works, including "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables," offer profound insights into the human condition and the Puritan society of early America. Hawthorne's symbolic and often allegorical use of themes like Guilt, Retribution, and Redemption has secured his Place in American literary History. His Literature continues to captivate readers and influence writers with its rich narrative and psychological depth.
Anecdotes
- Secretly added a "w" to his last name to Distance himself from an ancestor involved in the Salem witch trials. Famously worked in a custom house where he found inspiration for one of his best-known works. Once formed a literary group where he was friends with Thoreau and Emerson.
- Lived on a utopian farm commune called Brook Farm, hoping to combine intellectual pursuits with manual Labor. Shenanigans there soured his taste for such experiments. Served as U.S. consul in Liverpool, enjoying one of the highest-paid Government positions of his Time.
- Lost his Job at a custom house when a new Administration took over, prompting him to write a novel about a certain scarlet letter, which became a classic.
Magnitudes
- - Embrace solitude to deepen your creative vision.
- Embrace solitude to deepen your creative insight.
- Channel inner darkness into creative expression.
Explore these important ideas through classics in our archives contributed by or related to Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Explore other influential icons and ideas connected to Nathaniel Hawthorne to deepen your learning and inspire your next journey.
