In "Young Goodman Brown" Nathaniel Hawthorne uses symbolism to effectively create the desired allegorical context. Having been published in 1835, the lasting effect of 17th century Puritanism played a significant role in the short story as it did in The Scarlet Letter and other works by Hawthorne as well (Shoemaker). Among the most commendable aspects of Hawthorne's writing is his obscure style that allows the reader to make his own interpretations. Distinctly supporting this element,perhaps the most prominent and debatably analyzed symbol is the character Faith, the wife of Goodman Brown.

While her tangible presence as a real character is often questioned, her initial symbolic role is obviously that of her name--the abstract idea of Goodman Brown's actual faith in God. He has the choice of whether to go back to his "Faith" or explore the evils that the devil has to offer. The decision to be made...