Exceptionalism

For my paper I will explore the idea of exceptionalism, using the theocracy of Boston as a starting point and moving into history as I progress. The idea will be built on the portraits Hawthorne paints of several characters, that among them the Governor, Mistress Hibbins, and even Dimmsdale himself. Though a dramatic theme of the book throughout is the intensive "modesty" and "dark" nature of the Puritans, the Governor lives in a fine house complimented by a host of other "comforts." His sister, Mistress Hibbins, though being a well know witch, is left uncharged and uncontested by dint of her gubernatorial relation. And Dimmsdale, hero to the people, took a young, and believed to be widowed girl to his own at least once-a clear violation of his position, but one that he granted himself nonetheless. Using these contextual examples I will wind my way into exploring the hypocrisy of various "pious" groups, but most importantly the story of those who sustain them. Why did the serfs of Europe support their Lords for thousands of years. Why have citizens generally been so happy to commit their own resources to a clergy, monastery, or even government. Is this for the best? I think that the answer will not be black and white, and will generally follow the current of "a ruling body should only have the blessing of the people on whom they depend if it makes both their ends clear, makes their means clear, and stick religiously to those means."