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“The Minister’s Black Veil”

“The Minister’s Black Veil”. Nathaniel Hawthorne. Historical Notes. Minister Hooper was modeled after a Mr. Joseph Moody from York, Maine. According to Hawthorne, Moody “made himself remarkable by the same eccentricity that is here related of the Reverend Mr. Hooper.

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“The Minister’s Black Veil”

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  1. “The Minister’s Black Veil” Nathaniel Hawthorne

  2. Historical Notes • Minister Hooper was modeled after a Mr. Joseph Moody from York, Maine. • According to Hawthorne, Moody “made himself remarkable by the same eccentricity that is here related of the Reverend Mr. Hooper. • In his youth, Moody had killed “a beloved friend; and from that day till the hour of his own death, hid his face from men.” • Hawthorne understood well the “gloom and piety” of the early Puritans. • One of his ancestors had persecuted Quakers. • Another was one of the judges who condemned the Salem “witches.” (Judge Hathorne) • Hawthorne subsequently added the “w” to his name.

  3. Effects of the Veil • The congregation’s initial reactions to the veil are those of awe, dismay, fear, gloom, and curiosity. • Elizabeth expresses a concern for the veil’s effect on Mr. Hooper’s reputation and breaks their engagement. • Therefore, the veil generally results in Hooper being sad and lonely for the remainder of his life. • The veil creates a feeling of horror in Hooper when he sees his reflection.

  4. What does the veil symbolize to Mr. Hooper? • Secret Sin • Preaches on this subject the first day he wears the veil • Color black is sometimes associated with sin and evil • Veils are used to hide things, so a veil is a good symbol for something hidden • On death bed, refers to hiding sins from family, friends, lovers, and God. • Isolation from Others • Has the effect of isolating him • Begs Elizabeth not to leave him in that isolation forever • No one can penetrate it • On death bed, refers to lack of closeness among even friends and lovers

  5. What does the veil symbolize to Mr. Hooper? (cont) • Sinfulness (or evil) of any kind • Color black is sometimes associated with sin and evil • Sinfulness is inevitable • Says he will wear veil forever; he, like all people, will never be without sin • Mortality; Death • Says a day will come when all will cast aside veils, referring to dying • On death bed, refers to the veil that is lifted when one dies • Veil remains on his body and decays with him

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