In this novel, two characters, Hester Prynne and Roger Chillingworth, are affected by an act of adultery that took place between Hester and Reverend Dimmesdale. Hester was punished for this act by being isolated by her community and being punished in the form of public shame. However, I believe that Chillingworth suffered a much worse punishment than Hester, because he caught a desire for revenge against her and Chillingworth which made his sole purpose in life to get back at them for what they had done. One of the aspects that I will be focusing on to support my argument in my essential question is the concept of revenge. The source I chose to receive my information on this topic was written by Courtnie Erickson and is entitled "Dangers of Revenge". It is here that Erickson explains that "revenge is counterproductive",as it causes more damage to the revenge-seeker than the person it is done against.

Revenge is defined by Courtnie Erickson as the act to exact punishment or expiration for a wrongdoing. In addition, revenge implies crossing the boundaries of justice. The revenge seeker's motive are no longer to receive justice, but to evict pain upon another person in order to make the pain of whatever the person did seem less.The thought of revenge becomes constant revenge-seeker and will eventually mess with his/her mind and cause deep psychological damage to him/her as well.

Isolation
While punishment such as isolation is a difficult thing, in the end it could help one deal with guilt because him/her could feel that they paid the price for his/her actions.Punishment and isolation are temporary, but the burning desire for revenge creates a cycle that continues the drive to destroy others. In addition, punishment can help relieve guilt from the sin that you committed, but once revenge is taken, it is likely that the cycle will continue until it is impossible to stop or feel guiltless.

In addition, actions made while seeking revenge can cause a deep regret in the heart of the revenge-seeker.

In conclusion, The Scarlet Letter proves that the ongoing desire for revenge is more damaging than temporary punishment.