Literature Help: Young Goodman Brown

“Young Goodman Brown” is set in the 17th century Puritan New England. In most of Hawthorne’s works, New England is a common setting.

Through this story, the author addresses the Puritan belief that entire mankind is in a state of depravity, except for those people who are born in a state of grace. Through his stories, Hawthorne has often tried to expose the hypocrisy of the Puritan culture.

“Young Goodman Brown” is a symbolic story. The titular character, Goodman Brown” goes through a journey into self scrutiny that results in his loss of belief and virtue. It has been presented in a symbolic fashion.

The story takes place when Salem witch trials were being held. It is known that Hawthorne’s great-great-grandfather, John Hathorne, was a judge at the trials. The judge passed death sentences.

Literature Help: Young Goodman Brown
Copyright
Chapter One: About the Author
Chapter Two: Introduction
Chapter Three: Plot Overview
Chapter Four: Characters
Chapter Five: Complete Summary
Chapter Six: Critical Analysis