Humanity’s tendency in putting science over nature can often result in disastrous consequences for those that change nature to achieve his/her idea of perfection. In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Birthmark” the characters,the setting, and symbolism is used to portray nature, perfection, and artificiality. Character such as Aylmer and Georgiana are symbols of artificiality in nature. Georgiana is a symbol of nature’s beauty well Aylmer symbolizes how science attempts to change nature in the pursuit of perfection. Aylmer, a scientist, has the ability to make beauty out of absolutely nothing. However upon meeting Georgiana, Aylmer experiences a sense of spirituality, despite his complete devotion to science. Georgiana is the epitope of nature’s beauty, yet the hand-shaped birthmark on her left cheek; often viewed as a charm by others, is seen as imperfection by her husband, Aylmer. Aylmer believes that his wife is so naturally …show more content…
Georgiana is aware of the risks of having her mark removed but ultimately agreed to please her husband’s desire for perfection. However they characters opposite personalities for trade in various ways. The constant struggle between nature and science is represented in Georgiana and Aylmer’s relationship. Georgiana is submissive in the marriage, which represents how nature is bending to science’s will. However, in most of the story it is Georgiana that has the most power over Aylmer. For example when Aylmer is feeling depressed he asks Georgiana to sing to him, her beautiful voice is caused by nature, which lifts Aylmer’s spirits. However Aylmer cannot prolong Georgiana’s life and make her immortal because death is a natural part of life. Eventually Georgiana dies as a result of Aylmer removing her birthmark, which shows that science can overpower nature and ultimately nature can be destroyed in the