Top Retellings of Classic Tales
James Smith asked this question about The Scarlet Letter:
I know it's a classic and a must read and I know many of you are more intellectual readers and will enjoy. I enjoyed the historical setting, but struggled with the old english language. I'm willing to give another try. Any ideas on how I could get past the language? Should I get Cliff Notes?
Robin Kane-kerby Try sitting straight-backed in your chair, holding your chin level and reading a few sentences aloud as you peer down the sides of your nose (be sure …moreTry sitting straight-backed in your chair, holding your chin level and reading a few sentences aloud as you peer down the sides of your nose (be sure to insert snobbish tone as you read). I know this may sound unhelpful to some, and to that crowd it very well may be, but putting yourself "into character" (so to speak) has a way of connecting you to the words upon the page. Try it out!

...and for the words you're uncertain about: Webster, Oxford or Google Dictionaries are fine!
(less)
flag
More questions about The Scarlet Letter…
Image for The Scarlet Letter
The Scarlet Letter
by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Rate this book
Clear rating
1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more