Critical Lens

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy" by Martin Luther King, Jr implies that a man is viewed as robust when he bravely face hardships. I agree with this quote because experiencing obstacles will help one become stronger than one had ever been. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne and "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller uses literary elements such as characterization and conflict to help support the critical lens.

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne include characters with unique personalities that help support the critical lens. The protagonist Hester had an affair with reverend Dimmensdale and conflicts rose when she gave birth to Pearl. The community was aware that her husband was not in town during the time and as a punishment, Hester had the letter "A" stitched on her dress to symbolize the word "adultery." Hester was publicly humiliated and became an outsider. Reverend Dimmensdale stood in the moments of comfort because Hester refused to give up his name as the father of her child. Reverend Dimmensdale was safe from having a bad reputation. Unfortunately, his comfort was short-lived. Reverend Dimmensdale became bothered by his guilty conscience. He began to envy the way Hester audaciously wore the scarlet letter like it didn't affect her. Dimmensdale became feeble due to stress. He finally revealed his act of adultery. Hester was overwhelmed at the courage of reverend Dimmensdale because he faced his internal conflict bravely. She gave him their last kiss and Dimmensdale died from all his excitement.

"The Crucible" by Arthur Miller clearly exemplifies the critical lens through characterization and conflict. The relationship between Abigail Williams, John's ex-house worker, and John Proctor created controversies within the house of the Proctors'. Abigail and several other girls claimed to have seen people sign the devil's book. Abigail...