Symbolism in the Minister's Black Research Proposal

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Hooper's wearing of the veil only reinforces this notion. We are all unclean and should be aware of our condition. Hooper believed this and says so on his deathbed when he tells those around him, "On every visage a Black Veil!" (Hawthorne 640) G.A. Santangelo believes that Hawthorne was concerned with a delusional state of innocence in that no one can be innocent in this world "because man has a propensity for evil that musty be understood" (Santangelo 61). No one of this earth can be innocent and failure to recognize this "leads to a childish egotism and an unrealistic ethic which results in a sterile paganism" (61). Hooper makes a choice that isolates him but it is a choice that is "dedicated to a higher purpose" (66). In this sense, he "accepts the darkness, not in pride, but of necessity" (66). This story is tragic, according to Santangelo because the minister's isolation is "dedicated to a higher purpose, and he willingly accepts darkness not in pride, but of necessity" (66). Hooper's "authentic self could be established only in isolation and in blackness and through loving service to humanity, not in personal happiness" (66). Here we see that the veil becomes a symbol that is not only a teaching tool but also a sacrifice.

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Hooper cannot live his life without guilt or shame knowing his human condition and is therefore compelled to expose that condition to his fellow man.

"The Minister's Black Veil" is a tale about the nature of man. Hopper becomes the freak of the story but he is actually the one that is more aware of his human condition than anyone else he comes into contact with. His veil becomes a symbol of the goodness of God's word and the evil nature of man. One cannot be in communion with god and not be aware of one's own sinful nature. Hooper's veil hides his sin from God and from others as well. He hopes that his veil will also serve as a warning to others that might e inclined to live a sinful life and hide behind the facade of a happy smile. The minister is content to go to his grave if he can illustrate how important it is for man to become aware of his nature and become right with God in times of turmoil and temptation.

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