Nat is put in the stocks because he violates the strict standards of behavior by being rowdy (in itself “illegal”); by playing with the pagan jack-o-lanterns, which to the Puritans signified evil; and lastly by insulting an important person in town, William Ashby. He does this because he is offended by what seems to be Kit’s plans to marry William, but there are important dramatic purposes to “why Nat is put in the stocks.” It offers another indication of the harshness of the Puritan community; it foreshadows Kit’s predicament later when she is accused of witchcraft; it links Nat with Kit, showing them to be “soul-mates” in their rebellious and playful spirits; and it shows the kindness and courage of Kit, who dares approach him, again risking the disapproval of the community in doing so.
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