The dictionary meaning of the word feminist refers to people who defend or support the rights and equality of women. Hester Prynne is a very strong and honest feminist, as she did not follow the traditional role of women in the 18th century. “Holding the official staff in his left hand, he placed his right on the shoulder of a young woman whom he thus advanced; until, on the threshold of the prison door, she pushed him back, by an act marked by natural dignity and force of character, and went out into the open air” (Hawthorne 36). She knows she did it wrong but shows that she isn't. ashamed of what she did in front of people. “and yet a haughty smile, and a look that would not be ashamed and looked around at her townspeople and neighbors” (37). She did not receive any financial support from anyone. She used her money-making ability and raised Pearl on her own. “Her needlework was seen on the governor’s collar; the soldiers wore it on their scarves, and the minister on his headband; it adorned the baby's little cap; she was shut up, to be moldy and mildewed, in the coffins of the dead” (57). Unlike today, women in the 1850s were not allowed to do many things. Women had limited freedom, but Hester Prynne stood up for her rights and beliefs. Not only was she a feminist character in the book, but also the people, their cultures, and their religion made her that way. In the book it is said that she is a beautiful, tall, slender and dignified woman. She is also said to be good at decorating and making clothes and helps the poor by donating clothes. This is not a woman who is content to sin and be proud of herself. Throughout the story, Hester Prynne tries not to sin and not repent of what she has done and helps... middle of paper... and was out of the country , everyone hated her. Even though she knows everyone hates her, Hester never gives up to make amends. Hester Prynne did many great things for people. She decorated people's clothes and donated her clothes to the poor. She earned money and supported her daughter, Pearl. Hester Prynne might be struggling financially, but she was doing it all on her own. Hester Prynne is a brave and very courageous woman, unlike other women of the 1850s. Thanks to the characteristics of Hester Prynne, the book has become a great feminist novel. Not only did Nathaniel Hawthrone not only make up the story throughout fiction, but he also reflected the real society of his time in a novel that is The Scarlet Letter. The role of Hester Prynne, a courageous and strong feminist, in the story is one of the best elements that made The Scarlet Letter a great novel..