In the era that Nathaniel Hawthorne lived, he saw a society engulfed in the fascination of science. He wasn't fascinated with the thought of playing a mad scientist who could solve all of the world's problems through chemistry and biology. Instead, he took a more philosophical approach to understanding humanity, and was very much opposed to this idea of "playing God" that came about when he wrote "The Birthmark." In many of Hawthorne's stories, a main theme can be seen; the idea that society has a profound influence upon those who make up that society. In other words, society creates a firm grapple upon individuals which in turn can lead to alienation and a sense of brain-washing. Nathaniel Hawthorne created the character Aylmer to show just what happens when so

Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote this short story in a time where people were fascinated by the idea of perfection, or at least what they thought was perfection. The birthmark upon Georgiana's face wasn't that of imperfection, but rather that of human mortality. It symbolized that human beings are made in the likeness of God, and to try and deviate from that notion, is simply selfish. Through Aylmer, Hawthorne is able to portray society's faults and shortcomings, and creates a clear depiction of what happens when we mess with God's will of creation. In the end, selfishness of our own wants kills what nature intended. Life is indeed a mystery, and it isn't our choice to decide perfect and imperfect, angelic symbol or fatal flaw; instead we need to concentrate on the present and live our lives in a happy medium. Science cannot heal the human soul!

Moreover, Hawthorne makes many references about Aylmer's power and his potential to play God. "It is the most precious poison that ever was concocted in this world. By its aid I could apportion the lifetime of any mortal at whom you might point your finger. The strength of the dose would determine whether he were to linger out years, or drop dead in the midst of a breath. No king on his guarded throne could keep his life if I, in my private station, should deem that the welfare of millions justified me in depriving him of it (Hawtho

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Approximate Word count = 936
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)