The Birthmark is a short story by renowned American author, Nathaniel Hawthorne It tells the story of a man named Aylmer, who is a scientist, and his wife Georgiana, who bears a birthmark on her cheek which appears to be a small hand. Aylmer is obsessed with eliminating this blemish from Georgiana’s face and uses his knowledge of science, as well as an ancient alchemical formula, to strive to do so.
The Birthmark is an allegorical tale, with many interpretations and messages interwoven into the narrative, making it rich and multi-faceted. It explores themes such as human imperfection and vanity, ambition, and the relationship between science and nature.
Five best essay topics related to The Birthmark include:
1. How and why does The Birthmark serve as a critique of science and its relationship to nature?
2. Analyze and discuss the symbolism of the birthmark in Hawthorne’s story.
3. Is Aylmer’s ambition to remove Georgiana’s birthmark justified or misguided?
4. Examine the relationship between Aylmer and Georgiana and its role in The Birthmark.
5. Trace the evolution of Hawthorne’s use of allegorical themes in The Birthmark and explore its implications for the reader.