What is an example of a symbol in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter"?

The scarlet letter "A" serves as a powerful symbol throughout Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter." It represents various themes such as sin, shame, and identity. Initially, the letter is a mark of Hester Prynne’s adultery, signifying her perceived wrongdoing in the Puritan society. As the narrative unfolds, the meaning of the letter evolves; it comes to symbolize Hester's strength and resilience, contrasting her initial punishment. The public perception of the letter shifts from a symbol of disgrace to one of able and artistry, representing Hester’s transformation and her defiance against the societal norms.

In contrast, while the forest may symbolize freedom and natural rights, and Dimmesdale’s sermon reflects themes of guilt and redemption, neither carries the same direct and evolving significance as the scarlet letter. The rosebush, often thought to signify hope and beauty, lacks the complicated entanglements of sin and morality present in the character's journey surrounding the scarlet letter itself. Therefore, the scarlet letter "A" is the most prominent and multifaceted symbol in the text.