Final answer:
Hawthorne's mention of finding papers and a tattered rag related to Hester Prynne adds historical authenticity to his narrative and symbolizes the enduring legacy of her story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The importance of Nathaniel Hawthorne revealing the origin of the papers and the tattered rag concerning Hester Prynne can be understood as a literary strategy to ground his narrative in a sense of historical authenticity. This device immerses the reader in the world of the novel, suggesting that the story has been derived from actual documents, which blurs the line between fiction and reality. Furthermore, mentioning artifacts related to Hester serves as a potent symbol of the lasting impact of her story and the physical remnants of her life that continue to affect those who discover them.