In the article, “How Gender Stereotypes Kill a Women’s Self- Confidence” by Dina Gerdeman published by Harvard Business Schools explores how gender stereotypes, particularly in fields like math and science, undermine women’s self-confidence. Gerdeman explains that, “women are reluctant to share ideas in a group… women are more likely than men to shrug off the praise and lowball their own abilites”.This lack of confidence influences their choices in education and careers, leading them to avoid or underperform in certain fields.

In “The Scarlet Letter”, Hester Prynne’s experience of shame and isolation can be viewed as a symbolic death. She is forced to cope with her emotional pain in a society that harshly judges her, paralleling how young adults might struggle with grief while being constrained by societal norms.

A strong point from the article is how gender stereotypes undermine women’s self-confidence in male-dominated fields, like math and science. This lack of confidence causes women to doubt their abilities, even when they perform just as well as men. Internalized stereotypes lead to underperformance or avoidance of certain areas altogether.

Hester Prynne’s struggle with self-confidence can be seen in her initial reaction to wearing the scarlet letter. Instead of embracing her identity, she feels the weight of shame and judgment from the Puritan community. This parallels the experiences described in the article, where women often hesitate to assert themselves in male-dominated fields due to internalized stereotypes. Hester’s eventual acceptance of her situation and her decision to redefine her identity demonstrate the power of overcoming societal pressures, ultimately leading to her personal empowerment.

The article is the idea that stereotypes create a “chilly climate” for women in professional settings. When women were in groups women “were less likely to be rewarded for their input in the discussion” (Gerdeman). This environment discourages women from participating fully, as they feel unwelcome or unsupported.

In The Scarlet Letter, the “chilly climate” that Hester faces is exemplified by the scorn and ostracism she experiences from the Puritan community. Instead of providing support, the townspeople reinforce her shame through public shaming and isolation. This oppressive environment stifles her ability to express herself and flourish, paralleling how women in professional settings might feel unwelcome due to gender stereotypes.

In “The Scarlet Letter”, Hester Prynne embodies the struggle against societal judgment and the chilling effects of a repressive community. Her experience of isolation due to public shame mirrors how women in professional environments often face stereotypes that undermine their confidence and participation. Both the article and the novel emphasize the importance of supportive surroundings that encourage self-expression. Hester’s eventual resilience serves as a testament to overcoming societal constraints, reflecting the need for environments that empower individuals, especially women, to thrive without fear of repercussion.