In the scarlet letter How is Hester treated by poor?

While the novel "The Scarlet Letter" primarily focuses on the harsh treatment Hester Prynne receives from the wealthy and influential citizens of Boston, the poor are portrayed as more sympathetic and understanding. Here's a breakdown of how Hester is treated by the poor:

* Compassion and Empathy: The poor, having experienced hardship themselves, often show more compassion towards Hester. They recognize the injustice of her punishment and the cruelty of the Puritan society.

* Practical Help: Hester, being ostracized and shunned, relies on the poor for practical assistance. They provide her with food, shelter, and even sewing work. This practical help is a form of silent solidarity and acknowledgment of her plight.

* Respect and Acceptance: The poor, less bound by the rigid social norms and expectations of the elite, treat Hester with respect. They see her as a fellow human being who has made a mistake, and their acceptance helps her maintain her dignity in the face of relentless societal scorn.

It's important to remember that the novel's focus is on the hypocrisy and cruelty of the upper class, highlighting their judgmental nature and inability to show mercy. The poor, despite their own struggles, offer a counterpoint to this harshness, showcasing a more humane and compassionate approach to Hester's situation.

However, it's not a straightforward case of the poor being universally kind to Hester. There are still instances where individuals within the lower class hold prejudices and contribute to the social ostracism. Nonetheless, the novel paints a nuanced picture, suggesting that societal status doesn't necessarily equate to moral character.