Symbolism in "The Scarlet Letter" Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter includes many profound and important symbols. This device of symbolism is portrayed well in the novel, especially through the scarlet letter "A". The "A" is the best example because of the changes in the meaning throughout the novel. In the beginning of the novel, the scarlet letter "A" is viewed as a symbol of sin. In the middle of the novel is a transition period where the scarlet letter "A" is viewed differently. In the commencement of the novel, the letter is taken ....