* A Wild Animal: Pearl is often described as having the "wildness" and "untamed" nature of a creature of the forest, like a squirrel or a bird. Her movements are described as swift and unpredictable, and she's often portrayed as mischievous and playful, similar to a young animal.
* A Sprite or Fairy: Pearl's connection to nature extends to her being likened to a sprite or fairy, creatures associated with magic and the supernatural. This comparison highlights her seemingly ethereal nature and her ability to move with grace and ease through the world. Her playful nature and ability to perceive things others don't further solidify this comparison.
* A Devil's Spawn: Due to the circumstances of her birth, Pearl is often seen as a "demon child" or the product of sin. This perception fuels the notion that she may be a creature of darkness or evil, fueled by the community's condemnation of Hester and their own fears of the unknown.
* A Witch: Pearl's connection to the natural world and her perceived supernatural abilities also lead to her being compared to a witch. This reinforces the notion of her being an outsider, potentially possessing dark powers.
* A Child of Nature: Pearl's constant connection to the natural world and her ability to find joy in simple things allows her to be seen as a representation of nature itself. She embodies the beauty, untamed spirit, and unpredictable nature of the wild.
The comparisons to various fantastical creatures emphasize Pearl's complex nature, her perceived otherness, and the ongoing struggle between her innate goodness and the harsh judgments of the Puritan society. She is a child caught between two worlds, both a product of human sin and a symbol of the natural world's beauty and resilience.