The document provides a summary of Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The Scarlet Letter. It discusses the major themes of sin, guilt, and punishment. Hester Prynne commits adultery and is forced to wear a scarlet "A" and endure public shaming. Her husband seeks revenge on her and Dimmesdale, the real father of her child. Hester endures immense suffering but maintains her dignity while Dimmesdale is consumed by guilt. The scarlet letter, Pearl, and a meteor are used as symbols throughout the novel.