Characters
What characteristics does Aylmer possess?
Arrogant, Obsessive, narcissistic, delusional, grandiose, and intellectual
Provide at least one theme explored in the story.
Science v.s. Nature, the impossibility of the existence of perfection, the flaws of mankind
What does the birthmark represent?
It represents mortality and nature’s flaws
What is the setting of the story?
Aylmer's laboratory or the boudoir
What is the significance of Aminadab? Why did Hawthorne include him in the story?
He represents nature, contrasting the characteristics of Aylmer. His opinion on Georgiana's birthmark serves as a warning of her inevitable death.
How was the idea of perfectionism portrayed in the story?
It doesn't exist because nature doesn't allow perfection in anything, as demonstrated by Aylmer's past failures and Georgiana's birthmark.
What is the significance of Aylmer’s journal?
It reveals his failures, highlighting how he, too, is imperfect.
What is the color of Georgiana's birthmark?
Crimson
Why was Georgiana so weak and vulnerable to her husband's need to change her? Why did she give in?
Is nature proven more powerful than science?
The story shows that nature is more powerful than science, as Aylmer and other scientists before him have failed in their attempts to unravel its secrets.
What does Georgiana’s death symbolize?
It marks the idea that perfection cannot exist in the world.
What Greek mythological figure did Aylmer compare himself to?
Pygmalion
How do women and men differ in perceiving Georgiana’s birthmark? Why do they have different interpretations?
Men find the birthmark attractive, and some are indifferent about it. On the other hand, women perceive the mark as unattractive. These contrasting perceptions indicate the mark’s distinct imperfection.
How was Georgiana’s love differs from Aylmer's?
Georgiana loves Aylmer sacrificially and will take risks to please him, while Aylmer is unhappy with her imperfections and makes them the focus of their relationship.
What is the shape of the birthmark, and what does it symbolize?
Its shape is like a hand, and it represents Nature or God’s imprint on Georgiana’s face.
What year was Nathaniel Hawthorne born?
1804
What does Aylmer’s obsession with the birthmark reflect?
It highlights how Aylmer wants perfection and can't accept Georgiana's flaws. This makes him feel disgusted and unable to love her fully for who she is.
Why can Aylmer not accept Georgiana’s birthmark, and what were the consequences of this discontent?
The birthmark reminds Aylmer of nature's imperfections and mortality, which conflicts with his desire to control nature. Removing it means losing his wife and any chance at a happy marriage.
What does the sunlight represent in the laboratory?
It represents the role and influence of nature. In the end, when the sunlight hits Georgiana's face, it signifies how nature always prevails over what any science attempts to correct.
What was the meaning behind Aylmer’s dream?
It reveals a warning of how detrimental the removal of the birthmark will be. The idea that the birthmark is connected to Georgiana's heart emphasizes its vitality.