In The Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the country setting plays a significant role in both the characterization of Hester, the protagonist, and in the play's development as a Total character. It was only when Hester was banished to the country in seclusion that she was able to achieve enlightenment - and it was only when Hester achieved enlightenment that the other characters were able to grow as well. The rural setting also served to establish the novel's values: the country is described as a place where virtues such as modesty, wisdom and love are held in high regard. After Hester gives birth to her illegitimate daughter, Pearl, the townspeople decide to punish her by sending her away, to live in the country (away from the city) with only her son for company. Their intention was for her to have time alone to think about her guilt and repent of her sin, but she did exactly the opposite. She has become a strong, independent woman, with no need for society's blame or forgiveness. The countryside setting played a key role in his growth as a character: living far away ...