This 5 page paper explicates the Hawthorne story, pointing out various elements of symbolism. While there is much focus on the black veil itself, this paper also points to a couple of other elements that may be considered symbols. Bibliography lists 3 sources.
Name of Research Paper File: RT13_SA142val.rtf
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elements of symbolism. While there is much focus on the black veil itself, this paper also points to a couple of other elements that may be considered symbols. Bibliography lists
3 sources. SA142val.rtf The Ministers Black Veil is a short
story by Nathaniel Hawthorne that is replete with symbolism. Its intriguing plot involves a ministers request to never remove a curious black veil he wears. When he dies, should the
congregation remove it? Hawthorne sets up an intriguing problem that hints at religious themes. The minister makes a statement which means that the people should obey. Yet, the veil is
rather symbolic. Should the people be intrigued by the simple piece of cloth? Does the veil separate Hooper from God or from the congregation? Many questions crop up in respect
to religiosity as well as in relation to the walls everyone builds around them. On a daily basis, people hide behind clothing, sunglasses,
mustaches, excess fat and makeup. The ministers black veil is something that perhaps he hid behind, but more likely than not, it was a message for his people, and for
the reader as well. What did the black veil symbolize? The story ends as follows: " The grass of many years has sprung up and withered on that grave, the
burial stone is moss-grown, and good Mr. Hoopers face is dust; but awful is still the thought that it mouldered beneath the Black Veil!" (Hawthorne PG). Perhaps the point is
that the people focus on a small thing and do not see the big picture. The congregation never looks beyond the black veil. Their thinking is very narrow.