Question

the birthmark is often read as an allegory (a story in which the contents and characters are symbolic of something, rather than a realistic representation). alymer is a scientist with an obsession. in what way might alymer be an allegorical character? he represents the human desire to please others more than himself. he represents the morally perfect human specimen who has figured out that the meaning of life. he represents the benefits of scientific discovery as a means for attaining human perfection he represents the dangers of viewing science - and scientists - as all - powerful.

Explanation:

Alymer is a scientist obsessed with removing his wife's birth - mark. His actions and beliefs in the story suggest a critique of the over - glorification of science and scientists. He thinks he can use science to achieve a kind of human perfection by removing the birth - mark, but his efforts lead to tragic consequences, highlighting the danger of seeing science as all - powerful.

Answer:

He represents the dangers of viewing science - and scientists - as all - powerful.