Nathaniel Hawthorne reading to his children, Una and Julian. Nathaniel Hawthorne (July 4, 1804 - May 19, 1864) was an American novelist and short story writer. Much of his writing centers on New England, with many works featuring moral allegories with a Puritan inspiration. His fiction works are considered part of the Romantic movement and, more specifically, dark romanticism. His themes often center on the inherent evil and sin of humanity, and his works often have moral messages and deep psychological complexity. He is best remembered for his novels: The Scarlet Letter, The House of Seven Gables and The Marble Faun. He died in his sleep in 1864 at the age of 59.