15 Fascinating Facts about Nathaniel Hawthorne

Introduction:

Nathaniel Hawthorne is a renowned American novelist and short story writer, known for his dark romanticism and exploration of the human condition. His works have left a lasting impact on American literature, with themes of guilt, sin, and redemption prevalent throughout his writing. In this article, we will delve into 15 fascinating facts about Nathaniel Hawthorne that shed light on his life and work.

Fact 1: Hawthorne’s Ancestry

Nathaniel Hawthorne was born on July 4, 1804, in Salem, Massachusetts. He came from a long line of Puritans, with one of his ancestors being Judge John Hathorne, who presided over the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. Hawthorne added the “w” to his last name to distance himself from his family’s dark history.

Fact 2: Early Career

Before becoming a full-time writer, Hawthorne worked as a surveyor at the Boston Custom House and as a writer for the newly founded American magazine. These early experiences would later influence his writing and provide him with valuable insight into the human condition.

Fact 3: The Scarlet Letter

One of Hawthorne’s most famous works is “The Scarlet Letter,” published in 1850. The novel tells the story of Hester Prynne, a woman who is condemned for adultery in colonial Massachusetts and forced to wear a scarlet letter “A” on her chest. The novel explores themes of sin, guilt, and redemption, and has become a classic of American literature.

Fact 4: Friendship with Herman Melville

Hawthorne formed a close friendship with fellow writer Herman Melville, author of “Moby-Dick.” The two writers shared a deep admiration for each other’s work and corresponded regularly. Melville dedicated his novel “Moby-Dick” to Hawthorne, calling him “dear Nathaniel.”

Fact 5: The Old Manse

Hawthorne and his wife, Sophia Peabody, lived in the Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts, from 1842 to 1845. It was during this time that Hawthorne wrote some of his most famous works, including “Mosses from an Old Manse.” The Old Manse is now a historic site and is open to the public for tours.

Fact 6: Literary Influences

Hawthorne was heavily influenced by the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Washington Irving. He admired their dark romanticism and their exploration of the supernatural and macabre. Hawthorne’s own works often incorporate elements of these genres, creating a unique blend of realism and fantasy.

Fact 7: The House of the Seven Gables

Another one of Hawthorne’s famous novels is “The House of the Seven Gables,” published in 1851. The novel tells the story of the Pyncheon family and their ancestral home, which is cursed by a dark past. The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the effects of the past on the present.

Fact 8: Nathaniel Hawthorne and Transcendentalism

Hawthorne was acquainted with many of the leading Transcendentalists of his time, including Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. While he shared some of their beliefs, Hawthorne’s writing often took a more skeptical view of human nature and the limits of idealism.

Fact 9: Hawthorne’s Marriage

Hawthorne married Sophia Peabody in 1842 after a long courtship. Sophia was a talented artist and writer in her own right, and the two shared a deep intellectual and emotional connection. Sophia’s influence can be seen in Hawthorne’s writing, as she provided him with support and encouragement throughout his career.

Fact 10: Hawthorne’s Time in Europe

In 1853, Hawthorne was appointed as the American consul in Liverpool, England. He spent several years living abroad with his family, traveling throughout Europe and immersing himself in its culture and history. These experiences would later inspire his writing, as seen in his novel “The Marble Faun.”

Fact 11: Hawthorne’s Friendship with Franklin Pierce

Hawthorne was good friends with Franklin Pierce, who later became the 14th President of the United States. Pierce and Hawthorne shared a love of literature and politics, and Hawthorne served as Pierce’s campaign biographer during his presidential run.

Fact 12: Hawthorne’s Health Issues

Throughout his life, Hawthorne struggled with various health issues, including headaches and stomach problems. Despite these ailments, Hawthorne continued to write prolifically, producing some of his best-known works while battling his health problems.

Fact 13: Hawthorne’s Views on Religion

Hawthorne was raised in a strict Puritan household, which heavily influenced his views on religion. While he was skeptical of organized religion, Hawthorne maintained a deep sense of spirituality and explored questions of sin, morality, and the human soul in his writing.

Fact 14: Literary Legacy

Nathaniel Hawthorne’s works have had a lasting impact on American literature, influencing generations of writers to come. His exploration of guilt, sin, and redemption continues to resonate with readers today, making him one of the most celebrated writers in American literary history.

Fact 15: Death and Legacy

Nathaniel Hawthorne passed away on May 19, 1864, at the age of 59. Despite his untimely death, Hawthorne’s legacy lives on through his timeless works, which continue to be studied and admired by readers and scholars alike. His unique blend of dark romanticism and psychological insight has solidified his place as one of the great American writers of the 19th century.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nathaniel Hawthorne remains a towering figure in American literature, known for his exploration of guilt, sin, and redemption. His dark romanticism and psychological insight have captivated readers for generations, making him a writer whose works stand the test of time. From his early career to his friendships and literary influences, Hawthorne’s life and works are filled with fascinating details that shed light on his enduring legacy.