In the novel, The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the main theme of sin is continually displayed through characters. Although many characters can be accused of doing wrong, there is a distinct level of how sinful each one is. It is easy to argue and attack the crimes Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale carries out. Due to the greater sins he commits, he stands as the most sinful over Hester Prynne, Roger Chillingworth, and Puritan society. Despite being the novel's protagonist, Hester can be defended against her sins. Both Arthur and Hester define the extremes of sin.

During the beginning of the novel, Arthur is shown as a typical reverend. It appears at this point that Arthur does the very best to remain pure and good natured. However, as the plot progresses, Arthur becomes more sinful than others. He commits adultery. Denying the truth to his congregation provides for a...