Today i will be discussing my essential question based on the novel, The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. An essential theme in this novel is hypocrisy, and the effects it can have on an individual.

This brings me to my essential question, What makes hypocrisy so harmful?
We can observe the blatant act of hypocrisy in the Scarlet letter and wonder, how does this act create so much harm? In what ways does hypocrisy directly effect parties involved? While many people are effected by the hypocrisy of the Minister Dimmesdale, i am going to discuss the morality of church leaders actions.

The source i found to support my essential question is titled, “Holy masquerade: hypocrisy in religion”.
It was written by David O. Movers, and explores many different aspects of hypocrisy in the church. Just to name a few, examples of hypocrisy, the Definition of hypocrisy, and Domains of hypocrisy. This article displays how hypocrisy, especially in the church, is often not observed or called out. I go to church, but i think it is safe to say that not all churches are perfect. A key idea in the article is that, the paradox of serving god and teaching his word while also living against it is something that needs to be spoken about more often. This quote explains that idea further:”Even while preparing to go to church, family members may use harsh words against each other that clash with the songs of praise that follow”.

In conclusion, hypocrisy is harmful because it creates an amount of disparity between different levels in the church, and different levels in society. Because who wants to be lectured about something by someone who is making the same mistakes, but simply holds a higher status than you? That is the end of my presentation, thank you for your time.