What is the primary conflict in "The Scarlet Letter"?

The primary conflict in "The Scarlet Letter" centers on the tension between individual conscience and societal norms. This struggle is most clearly embodied in the character of Hester Prynne, who faces the consequences of her actions in a Puritan society that strictly enforces moral codes. Hester's personal feelings and sense of self-identity clash with the rigid expectations and judgments imposed by her community, which leads to her public shaming and isolation.

Throughout the novel, Hawthorne delves into complex themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of sin, illustrating how personal morals can conflict with collective societal values. The characters of Dimmesdale and Chillingworth also illustrate this conflict as they navigate their own moral dilemmas against the backdrop of societal scrutiny. As a result, this theme of individual versus society becomes a central lens through which the characters' motivations and struggles are explored, making it the focal point of the narrative.