A recurring theme in literature is the classic war between a passion and responsibility. For instance, a personal cause, a love, a desire for revenge, a determination to redress a wrong, or some other emotion or drive may conflict with moral duty. Choose a literary work in which a character confronts the demands of a private passion that conflicts with his or her responsibilities. In a well-written essay show clearly the nature of the conflict, its effects upon the character, and its significance to the work.

In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, “The Scarlet Letter,” the character of Hester Prynne confronts the demands of her private passion for love and individuality that conflicts with her responsibilities to adhere to the strict moral and social norms of her Puritan community. The conflict between her passion and responsibility not only shapes her character, but also has profound effects on her life and the overall significance of the novel.