“The magistrates are God-fearing gentlemen, but merciful overmuch — that is a truth, at the very least, they should have put the brand of a hot iron on Hester Prynne's forehead. Madame Hester would have winced at that, I warrant me. But she — the naughty baggage — little will she care what they put upon the bodice of her gown! Why, look you, she may cover it with a brooch, or such like heathenish adornment, and so walk the streets as brave as ever!" (pg 49)
Here they are saying that simply having an A on her bosom that she could cover with a brooch is not good enough, that she needs something more. She has a daughter that she will look after for the next few decades of her life. Her daughter will be an everyday constant reminder of what she has done. But as far as the A goes, a reason it is as “simple” as a hand stitched A on her Bosom is quite possibly because the crime she committed was so simple and not worthy of any great attention.
Yes, but think about the possibility that she could have been put to death for this crime. Think about the unforgiving attitude of those who want to brand her.
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