during the first years of Hester's isolation
Pearl's Early Childhood and Character
Pearl grows into a beautiful, wild, and intelligent child, often described as elfish or imp-like. She is fascinated by the scarlet letter and seems to embody the passion and defiance of her mother's sin. Hester struggles to discipline her, and Pearl is shunned by other children. The child's behavior and questions constantly remind Hester of her guilt.