Nathaniel Hawthorne is considered one of the greatest American literary figures, known for his iconic works such as "The Scarlet Letter" and "The House of the Seven Gables." However, like many writers, Hawthornes writing was not simply a product of his own imagination. Rather, it was shaped by various influences that helped cultivate his unique literary style. In this article, we will delve into the factors that sparked Hawthornes writing, the key inspirations that influenced his work, and the critical elements that drove his literary development. From the people who influenced him to the events that impacted him, we will uncover the significant sources of inspiration that shaped Hawthorne as a writer and explore the impact they had on his writing. Join us as we take a closer look at the driving forces behind Hawthornes iconic literature.
Nathaniel Hawthorne is considered one of the greatest American writers of the 19th century, known for his dark and mysterious tales that explore the complexities of the human condition. His works, including "The Scarlet Letter", "The House of the Seven Gables", and "Young Goodman Brown", continue to be studied and admired today. But what sparked Hawthornes writing and shaped his literary style?
Influences on Hawthornes Literary Style
Hawthornes writing was heavily influenced by the time period in which he lived. He was born in Salem, Massachusetts in 1804, a town famously associated with the witch trials of the late 17th century. This history of witchcraft and Puritanism had a profound impact on Hawthornes writing, as seen in his exploration of sin, guilt, and the dark side of human nature.
Additionally, Hawthornes Puritan ancestors, who were involved in the Salem witch trials, influenced his fascination with the concepts of good versus evil and the consequences of moral transgressions. This can be seen in his most famous work, "The Scarlet Letter", where he delves into the repercussions of adultery and the strict moral codes of the Puritan society.
Another influence on Hawthornes writing was his education at Bowdoin College. There, he was exposed to the works of transcendentalist thinkers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. The idea of individualism and mans connection to nature can be seen in Hawthornes writing, particularly in his dark romanticism and use of symbolism.
Factors That Shaped Hawthorne as a Writer
In addition to external influences, there were also personal experiences that shaped Hawthornes development as a writer. One major factor was the isolation he experienced as a child, due to his fathers death when he was only four years old. This sense of loneliness and alienation is reflected in many of his works, where his characters often struggle with feelings of isolation and detachment from society.
Another significant event in Hawthornes life was his dismissal from his dream job at the Custom House in Salem. This experience led to a period of self-reflection and ultimately inspired him to fully pursue his passion for writing. In fact, Hawthornes first collection of short stories, "Twice-Told Tales", was published shortly after he was fired. This event serves as a reminder that even in the face of disappointment and setbacks, one should never give up on their dreams.
Key Inspirations for Hawthornes Literature
Hawthornes writing also drew inspiration from his travels and experiences. While he spent most of his life in New England, he also lived in Europe for several years, which exposed him to different cultures and perspectives. This can be seen in his novel "The Marble Faun", which is set in Italy and explores themes of guilt and redemption.
Furthermore, Hawthornes time living in the Berkshires in Massachusetts greatly influenced his writing. The natural beauty and peacefulness of this region can be seen in his descriptions of nature in his works. It is believed that his time in the Berkshires inspired his setting of "The House of the Seven Gables", which is set in the fictional town of Salem.
Critical Elements in Hawthornes Writing
One of the most significant elements of Hawthornes writing is his use of symbolism. He often used symbols such as the scarlet letter in his works to represent deeper meaning and explore complex themes. This technique adds depth and layers to his stories, making them more thought-provoking and open to interpretation.
Another critical element in Hawthornes writing is his exploration of the human psyche. He delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of his characters, revealing the depths of their fears, desires, and struggles. This gives his works a psychological depth that is still relevant and intriguing to readers today.
Major Influencers of Hawthornes Work
One of the most significant influencers of Hawthornes work was his friendship with fellow writer Herman Melville. The two became close friends and shared literary ideas and critiques, which greatly impacted Hawthornes writing. In fact, Melville dedicated his novel "Moby-Dick" to Hawthorne, calling him "the meteor."
Another major influence on Hawthornes writing was his marriage to Sophia Peabody, an artist and writer. Their relationship was a source of inspiration for Hawthorne, and he often credited her with improving his writing. Their deep love and understanding of each other can be seen in his portrayal of romantic relationships in his works.
Significant Sources of Inspiration for Hawthorne
Hawthornes readings of ancient mythology and folklore also served as significant sources of inspiration for his writing. He often incorporated elements of these stories into his own works, adding a mystical and supernatural quality to his tales. The exploration of these myths and legends also allowed Hawthorne to delve deeper into universal themes and human nature.
Additionally, Hawthornes strong belief in the power of the written word was a driving force behind his writing. He saw literature as a way to explore the complexities of human nature and to make sense of the world around him. This passion and dedication to his craft are evident in the timeless and thought-provoking nature of his works.
Driving Forces Behind Hawthornes Writing
There were several driving forces behind Hawthornes writing, including his desire to explore moral and philosophical themes through his work. He was deeply interested in the intricacies of human nature and the consequences of moral choices, and his writing served as a medium to explore these themes. Hawthornes belief that literature could serve as a means of understanding and reflecting upon society is evident in the depth and complexity of his works.
Another driving force behind Hawthornes writing was his desire for individual freedom and self-expression. Growing up in a strict Puritan society, Hawthorne often felt confined by the rigid social norms and expectations of his time. Writing allowed him to express himself freely and explore topics that were often considered taboo in his society.
The Impact on Hawthornes Writing
The combination of all these influences, inspirations, and driving forces ultimately had a profound impact on Hawthornes writing. His works continue to be studied and admired today because of their timeless themes and universal truths, showcasing the enduring impact of his writing.
Furthermore, Hawthornes unique literary style has greatly influenced other writers, such as Edgar Allan Poe and William Faulkner, who have been inspired by his use of symbolism and exploration of human nature. His work also had a major impact on the development of American literature, shaping the dark romanticism movement and paving the way for future writers to explore the complexities of human nature and societal norms.
The Catalysts for Hawthornes Literary Development
In conclusion, it can be seen that Hawthornes writing was sparked by a combination of external influences, personal experiences, and intrinsic motivations. His fascination with Puritanism and dark romanticism, his travels and education, and his relationships all played a role in shaping him as a writer and influencing his literary style. These factors, along with his own passion and dedication, were the catalysts for Hawthornes literary development and the enduring impact of his works.
Link: What Most Influenced Hawthornes Writing
In conclusion, the writing of Nathaniel Hawthorne was sparked by a combination of factors, influences, and inspirations. His literary style was shaped by his Puritan upbringing, his personal experiences, and the societal norms and pressures of his time. His works often explored themes of guilt, sin, and the human psyche, drawing from his own emotions and observations of the world around him. Critical elements such as symbolism and moral ambiguity were key components of his writing. While major influencers such as his family and fellow writers played a role in his development as a writer, it was ultimately Hawthornes own creative drive and unique perspective that made his works stand out. By examining these significant sources of inspiration and the catalysts for his literary development, we can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the impact of Hawthornes writing on literature as a whole.
