We are reading The Scarlet Letter in class and we have to take 2 pictures that represent an issue. The issue I have chosen is Definition of Family/Definition of Marriage. I'm just looking for things that I can take pictures of that could symbolize these things and how they connect to the book. Thank you so much in advanced!!!!! (:
Oh, my goodness. Definition of marriage is, of course, the traditional "union" of a man and woman. A picture of a man and woman (your parents, an aunt and uncle, grandparents) in a domestic situation (eating together, sitting on the sofa together, something in which they are shown to be doing SOMETHING together) might work. A picture of a marriage license might work.
Definition of family, in the context of the story is more problematic. Certainly Hester and Pearl are a family, if a non-traditional one (single mother and child). The definition of family that the community supports is mother, father, and children. A picture of a family you know and might photograph might suffice (The number of children doesn't matter. It could be one or a dozen.) A picture of grandparents, their adult children, and the grandchild or children might also be good, if you can get them all together in one place at one time. :)
Thank you! Do you by chance know any objects that could symbolize these things as well. I was thinking about wedding rings for marriage but I don't know if that is too common. I also don't know a good object that symbolizes the family. Thank you so much!!!
Great choice of topic for your pictures! When it comes to symbolizing the issue of the definition of family and marriage in The Scarlet Letter, you can explore several elements and scenes from the book to find inspiration.
1. The Scarlet Letter itself: In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, the scarlet letter "A" is a powerful symbol of shame, public condemnation, and the consequences of adultery. You can take a picture of a physical scarlet letter or create one using various materials to represent the societal judgment and perception of relationships that deviate from traditional definitions of family and marriage.
2. Characters and Relationships: Consider capturing images that portray characters affected by unconventional definitions of family and marriage. Focus specifically on Hester Prynne, who becomes a symbol of a non-traditional family and her daughter Pearl, who challenges conventional notions of family. You can photograph a single parent or a blended family to highlight diverse family structures.
3. The Scaffold: The scaffold is an important symbol in The Scarlet Letter, representing public exposure and punishment. Take a picture of a real or symbolic scaffold, reflecting how individuals who defy societal expectations regarding family and marriage are often subjected to scrutiny, judgment, and public shaming.
4. Nature Imagery: The natural settings described in the book can also represent alternative definitions of family and marriage. Capture images of the wilderness, forests, or flowers to symbolize freedom, connection, and unconstrained relationships existing outside societal norms.
5. Relevant Quotes: Choose a meaningful quote from the book that reflects the issue you're exploring, and create an image with the quote overlaying a related visual element. This can help reinforce the connection between the theme and the book.
Remember, in analyzing the issue of the definition of family and marriage in The Scarlet Letter, it is crucial to consider how these symbols reflect the attitudes, societal values, and individual experiences portrayed in the novel.