As humans, we have a natural obsession with perfection, often causing us to do anything to get what we consider the true definition of perfection, regardless the cost correcting a deficiency. In “The Birth-Mark”, Nathaniel Hawthorne engages the reader in this moral tale about a scientist (Aylmer), a woman (Georgina), and a “pygmy size” (Hawthorne 6) birthmark. In this story, Hawthorne implies that Aylmer is infatuated with science more than he loves his wife and the obsession with getting rid of her birthmark becomes his new devotion and in the interim causes him to mistreat her. “The Birth-Mark” utilizes multiple themes; the most prominent is Aylmer’s need for perfection, Science vs. Nature, and symbolism all of which helps the reader understand …show more content…
Although Alymer loves his new bride, his resentment towards her birthmark emerges shortly after their vows whereas, Aylmer is unwilling to accept the birthmark and loathes it. The marriage quickly changes, as he notices his wife’s imperfections every day. With hesitation, Georgina tells Alymer “I know not what may be the cost to both of us to rid me of this fatal birthmark” (Hawthorne 8), which suggests she was willing to do anything to make her husband happy. Although, she is reluctant about removing the birthmark she is willing to do whatever it takes to make her husband happy. Georgina’s suggestion ignited Aylmer, causing him to feel like he has the power to correct this problem “I shall have corrected what Nature left imperfect in her fairest work” (Hawthorne 8). The change from a marriage to a science experiment type of relationship is obvious in the text as Aylmer becomes obsess with how he would remove the crimson hand on Georgina’s cheek. Therefore, the scientist he is takes charge and says, “Dearest Georgina, I have spent much thought upon the subject. I am convinced of the perfect practicability of its removal” (Hawthorne 8). His obsession is beyond normal that he disregards any feelings Georgina may have regarding its removal, which also shows how much he truly loves his