Edna and Hester are exceptionally alike in numerous ways when talking of their sins. Both committed the same exact sin, in almost the exact same way. The mere difference lied within the way each character dealt with her feelings and emotions after she had committed the sin. Although Edna Pontellier and Hester Prynne were both guilty of the same adulterous sin, they had very different emotions regarding the aftermath of the act.

Adultery in any case is always considered inexcusable due to the secrecy and deceit that is involved within the act. In Edna's case, it was more or less felt as an act of pure lust. Edna neglected to think about the cause and effect relationship that was apparent in her situation, and only thought of her own benefit when committing adultery. She thought nothing about leaving her children behind, as well as her husband, in order...