Nathaniel Hawthorne's great-grandfather was Joseph Hathorne.
Nathaniel Hawthorne, the renowned American novelist known for works like The Scarlet Letter and The House of the Seven Gables, came from a long line of New England ancestors deeply rooted in the history of Salem, Massachusetts. His lineage connects directly back to some of the earliest Puritan settlers.
The Hathorne Family Lineage
The family history of Nathaniel Hawthorne is particularly significant due to his connection to the infamous Salem Witch Trials. His ancestors played a role in the foundational events of early American history, a past that profoundly influenced his literary themes.
Here's a brief look at the direct paternal line leading to Nathaniel Hawthorne, highlighting his great-grandfather:
| Relation | Name | Noteworthy Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Author | Nathaniel Hawthorne | Prominent 19th-century American novelist |
| Father | Nathaniel Hathorne | Sea captain |
| Grandfather | Daniel Hathorne | Sea captain |
| Great-Grandfather | Joseph Hathorne | Son of Judge John Hathorne |
| Great-Great-Grandfather | John Hathorne | Judge during the Salem Witch Trials |
Joseph Hathorne's Place in the Family
Joseph Hathorne (1692–1772) was the son of Judge John Hathorne, who gained notoriety for his role as a magistrate during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692-1693. While Joseph himself was not directly involved in the trials, he inherited the family name and its associated historical weight. His position in the lineage marks him as a key figure bridging the gap between the original Puritan settlers and the future literary giant.
The "Hawthorne" Name Change and Its Significance
One of the most intriguing aspects of Nathaniel Hawthorne's family history is his decision to add a "W" to his surname, changing "Hathorne" to "Hawthorne." This intentional alteration is widely believed to be an attempt to distance himself from the actions of his ancestors, particularly his great-great-grandfather, Judge John Hathorne.
- Judge John Hathorne's Role: As a magistrate, John Hathorne was the only judge involved in the Salem Witch Trials who never repented his part in the convictions and executions of alleged witches. This historical stain on the family name deeply affected Nathaniel.
- Literary Influence: The moral complexities, guilt, and the weight of the past—themes central to the Salem Witch Trials—became recurring motifs in Nathaniel Hawthorne's literary works. The House of the Seven Gables, for instance, directly explores the concept of inherited guilt and a family curse stemming from a wrongful accusation.
- Identity and Legacy: By changing his name, Nathaniel sought to forge his own identity while simultaneously acknowledging and grappling with his family's controversial past. This act reflects a profound awareness of the historical legacy he carried.
Legacy of the Hathorne/Hawthorne Name
The legacy of the Hathorne/Hawthorne name is one woven into the fabric of American history and literature. It serves as a potent reminder of the impact of ancestral actions on future generations and how personal identity can be shaped by historical memory. Nathaniel Hawthorne's choice to confront and incorporate this complex heritage into his fiction has cemented his place as one of America's most introspective and enduring writers.
