Abstract
The Scarlet Letter has aroused people‟s attention since its publication. The
analysis of the protagonist, Hester Prynne in the novel, has always been a heated topic
at home and abroad. Scholars have interpreted Hester Prynne from many perspectives
like Archetypal Criticism, Modernism or Feminism, especially eco-feminism.
Therefore, this article tries to extend the previous‟ studies in terms of Androgyny.
Based on the theory of Androgyny, this article aims to analyze both the femininity and
masculinity of Hester Prynne, which is to reveal the deconstruction of binary opposition
in the traditional viewpoint of sexuality. Hester Prynne's femininity can be interpreted
from her feminine charm and maternity, while her masculinity can be analyzed from
rebellious spirit and survivability. Besides, this article explores the influence of Hester's
androgynous characteristics on herself, Dimmesdale, Chillingworth and other people
around her, which is to embody Hester's self-growth. As a result of her innermost
androgyny, Hester grows from an unworldly young woman to a strong-willed,
independent and mature woman.