An Abundance of Sins in Hawthorne’s Ethan Brand- But None Unpardonable

Abstract

In this study, the author examines the theme of sin and its impact on the lives of the characters. Through an analysis of the various types of sin depicted in the short story , the author delves into the sin of the protagonist, Ethan Brand, and analyzes its significance in relation to the title of the short story and its interpretation from a biblical perspective. The concept of the unpardonable sin is also explored in relation to the themes of the story. The author concludes that Brand may have been pardoned for all of his sins, including suicide, if he was mentally unfit, suggesting that there is no trace of the unpardonable sin in him. This conclusion is significant because it highlights the idea that redemption is possible for all sins, as long as the person committing them is not fully in control of their actions due to mental instability. Overall, this study aims to deepen our understanding of the role of sin in Hawthorne's writing and its impact on the characters and themes of the novel. By examining the specific types of sin depicted in the story and their effects on the characters, the author sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of sin in literature. This analysis helps us to better understand the characters and the choices they make, and it also prompts us to consider the role of sin in our own life.