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Young Goodman Brown Significance Passages

Explain the significance of the following passages in a well-developed, concise paragraph

  1. "Poor little Faith!" thought he, for his heart smote him. "What a wretch am I to leave her on such an errand! She talks of dreams, too, Methought as she spoke there was trouble in her face, as if a dream had warned her what work is to be done tonight. But no, not would kill her to think it. Well, she's a blessed angel on earth; and after this one night I'll cling to her skirts and follow her to heaven."

    In this passage from "Young Goodman Brown," Goodman Brown reveals his internal conflict and guilt about leaving his wife, Faith, for his mysterious journey into the forest. His words reflect his deep affection for Faith and his awareness of the potential harm his actions may cause her. He convinces himself that she will remain angelic and pure, resolving to remain by her side after completing his one-night errand. This passage highlights Goodman Brown's internal struggle between his obligations and desires, setting the stage for the themes of hypocrisy, the duality of human nature, and the impact of sin that are explored throughout the story.

  2. I have been as well acquainted with your family as with ever a one among the Puritans; and that's no trifle to say. I helped your grandfather, the constable, when he lashed the Quaker woman so smartly through the streets of Salem; and it was I that brought your father a pitch-pine knot, kindled at my own hearth, to set fire to an Indian village, in King Philip's war. They were my good friends, both; and many a pleasant walk have we had along this path, and returned merrily after midnight. I would fain be friends with you for their sake.

  3. "That old woman taught me my catechism," said the young man; and there was a world of meaning in this simple comment.

    This short statement from Goodman Brown reflects a profound realization about the pervasive nature of sin and the disillusionment he experiences on his journey. The old woman, once a figure of religious education and moral guidance, is now revealed to be a companion of the devil. This inversion of Goodman Brown's expectations serves as a metaphor for his growing realization that sin is not confined to the wicked, but is present in all individuals, regardless of their outward appearance or reputation.

  4. "My Faith is gone!" cried he, after one stupefied moment. "There is no good on earth; and sin is but a name. Come, devil; for to thee is this world given."

  5. The fiend in his own shape is less hideous than when he rages in the breast of man.

    This passage presents a profound commentary on the nature of evil, suggesting that the most destructive and terrifying form of evil is not the devil in his own form, but rather the evil that resides within humans. This idea aligns with the central themes of the story, highlighting the duality of human nature and the capacity for sin and evil in everyone, regardless of their outward appearance or societal standing.

  6. It shall be yours to penetrate, in every bosom, the deep mystery of sin, the fountain of all wicked arts, and which inexhaustibly supplies more evil impulses than human power-than my power at its utmost-can make manifest in deeds.

    The devil reveals to Goodman Brown the extent of his power and influence, emphasizing the omnipresence of sin and the inexhaustible supply of evil impulses within the human heart. This passage underscores the story's themes of the pervasive nature of sin and the inherent duality of human nature, suggesting that evil is an intrinsic part of the human experience and that individuals are constantly at war with their darker impulses.

  7. And there they stood, the only pair, as it seemed, who were yet hesitating on the verge of wickedness in this dark world. A basin was hollowed, naturally, in the rock. Did it contain water, reddened by the lurid light? Or was it blood? Or, perchance, a liquid flame?