The Scarlet Letter

Introduction

Written in 1850 by Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter is set during the Puritan Era. As you may know, historical periods can influence what a text is about, as well as how the author writes the text. During this WebQuest, you will be responsible for compiling reserach based off of the two time periods (1850 and the 1600's) to help you better understand themes presented within the text.

Task

1. In groups, you will reserach an assigned topic relating to either the Puritans in the 1600's or Hawthorne and the 1800s. Below are the following topics:

  • Puritanism
  • Puritans: Voyage to the New World
  • Puritans' Daily Life
  • Nathaniel Hawthorne Biography
  • Women and Hawthorne in 1850

2. Once your group has completed the needed research, you will create a presentation (PowerPoint, Prezi, poster, etc.) that you will share in class next week.

Process

Group One: Puritanism

Below is the reserach and questions you will need to complete in order to have an effective presentation:

1. Where did the term "Puritan" come from?

2. Describe at least three of the Puritans' religious beliefs.

3. Define predestination. 

Group Two: Puritans: Voyage to the New World

Below is the reserach and questions you will need to complete in order to have an effective presentation:

1. What was the reason for the Puritans coming to the New World?

2. How did the Puritans get to the New World?

3. Explain the Mayflower Compact.

Group Three: Puritans' Daily Life

Below is the research and questions you will need to complete in order to have an effective presentation:

1. Describe what the Puritans wore.

2. What were some of the common forms of punishment and what did they reveal about Puritan values?

3. In Puritan society, how were the women treated?

4. What was the role of education?

Group Four: Nathaniel Hawthorne Biography

Below is the research and questions you will need to complete in order to have an effective presentation:

1. Describe Hawthorne's life and family.

2. Did Hawthorne have Puritan heritage? If so, how did it influence him?

3. How did Hawthorne view women? Explain.

4. List some of the common themes that appear in Hawthorne's works.

Group Five: Hawthorne and Women in 1850

Below is the research and questiosn you will need to complete in order to have an effective presentation:

1. What type of influence did women have on Hawthorne?

2. Who was Margaret Fuller?

3. What type of relationship with Hawthorne did Fuller have?

Evaluation

This WebQuest is worth 50 points. Below is how your grade will be determined:

  • Content (20 points): Information is accurate and thorough, as well as addresses each question outlined.
  • Presentation (15 points): Each group member must participate and speak during the presentation. The presentation must be interesting and have any information quoted sighted accurately.
  • Organization (10 points): The presentation is well-organized/easy to read and follow along.
  • Class Participation (5 points): Each group member stays on task during class time.

Conclusion

After completing this WebQuest, you will better understand the different concepts that are presented in The Scarlet Letter. 

Credits