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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Key Examples in The Minister’s Black Veil
Motifs
Explanation and Analysis—Visibility vs. Obscurity:
Throughout “The Minister’s Black Veil,” Hawthorne uses the motif of visibility vs. obscurity to highlight the differences between Reverend Hooper and the townspeople of Milford. While the townspeople are constantly staring—at Reverend Hooper and at one another—Hooper is frequently depicted looking off into the distance, away from their faces. Reverend Hooper’s face is also obscured while theirs remain highly visible, making them anxious.
In the first paragraph of the story, the emphasis is on the faces of Milford’s townspeople. The scene is filled with bright light, and everyone is looking at one another:
Children, with bright faces, tripped merrily beside their parents, or mimicked a graver gait, in the conscious dignity of their Sunday clothes. Spruce bachelors looked sidelong at the pretty maidens, and fancied that the Sabbath sunshine made them prettier on week days. When the throng had mostly streamed into the porch, the sexton began to toll the bell, keeping his eye on the Reverend Mr. Hooper's door. The first glimpse of the clergyman was the signal for the bell to cease the summons.
“But what has the good Mr. Hooper got upon his face?” cried the sexton in astonishment.
All within hearing immediately turned about and beheld the semblance of Mr. Hooper, pacing slowly in his meditative way towards the meeting-house.
Related Themes:
