What is the symbolism in the novel The Scarlet Letter?

The scarlet letter is initially meant to be a symbol of shame, but as time goes on it has many meanings. From adultery, to ability, to the Native Americans' belief that Hester had been marked as nobility..... the letter eventually comes to symbolize Hester's identity. 

The meteor also has dual meanings. To Dimmesdale is symbolizes adultery; the Puritan community believes that an angel is marking the governor's ascent into heaven.