Analysis of Young Goodman Brown

Plot:

In short, the story depicts a man encountering the devil and is forced to face his own insecurities/flaws. While along the way he questions the faithfulness of those around him, even his one beloved wife, faith.  He soon realizes that the people in his village are guilty of following the devil. But was it all a dream or a figment of imagination? The story never really clarifies. It leaves it up to the readers interpretation. The story leaves you with Goodman Brown forever living his life in fear and gloom.

Symbols:

Faith's pink ribbon- Even her name is an iconic symbol in the story: Faith. The story revolves around religious faith and to steer clear of the devil and his evil ways. Also, her ribbon symbolizes purity in a time where women were held to a different standard in the biblical world.

The staff- The snake carved into the staff represents a serpent associated with the pits of hell. By Goodman Brown taking the staff, he subconsciously make the decision to walk towards hell.  

The Forest- The forest depicts a satanical and demonic background to the story giving it an edge. It helps in hiding Goodman Brown out of sight from other people come to the devils ceremony. It symbolizes sneakiness, lying, cheating, witchcraft, temptation, and all other negative traits a dark creepy forest brings. 

Themes:

Religion- the whole story is based off of religious values and morals. The devil questions these values and causes temptation, doubt, and persuades people into evil acts. In short, the story is a battle of good vs evil or in another form, god vs the devil. 

Judgement- Goodman Brown was constantly hiding in the story because he was ashamed of what others would think of him if they say him associating with the devil and attending the ceremony. We often worry too much about what others will think of us, that we lose sight of what it is we find valuable and important. Judgment played a big role in the story due to Goodman Brown's insecurities in his own individual faith.

Good vs Evil/ Right vs Wrong- the stories whole plot is built around the reoccurring battle of what is right and wrong in life. Were Goodman Brown's decisions justified? Was he really subsiding with the devil, or was it an inner test to make him realize he was faithful? life is full of paths, leading to an endless amount of places and answers. This battle is in all of us, every moment, and unfortunately, it is one we will never win.