Read “The Birthmark” by Nathaniel Hawthorne (Bedford Introduction to Literature pages 258-267) and answer the following questions in approximately 400-500 words:
1. List 5 descriptive words / phrases used in the text about the scientist (Aylmer). Pull the words / phrases from different parts of the text.
2. Look at the 5 words / phrases from question #1 and write 1-2 paragraphs in your own words about Aylmers character. What does he value? How would you describe his personality? Is he someone you would want to be around?
3. One way to interpret The Birthmark is as an allegory about the nature of humankind. If Aylmer represents humankind, then what is the author trying to express about humanity? Explain in 1-2 paragraphs.
4. Alymer’s assistant, Aminadab, is a flat character who is symbolic (represents a bigger idea) in a few different ways. Using two quotes from the text, explain what bigger idea Aminadab could represent in 1-2 paragraphs.
5. In 1-2 paragraphs, explain how “The Birthmark” explores themes similar to another text we have read this semester (Not “Allegory of the Cave”).
