《美国文学》教学课件Dr.-Heideggers-Experiment.ppt

Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment By Nathaniel Hawthorne Literary term for this story: Allegory: A work in which each element symbolizes, or represents, something else. (In this story, each of the characters represents something people strive to have in their youth). theme Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment?deals with two of Hawthorne’s favourite themes: the consequences of tampering with nature and the rejection of conventional morality. (People lack the ability to achieve perfection and therefore, since they are only human, are destined to make the same mistakes twice. ) theme The theme which is created from this is, although humans may greatly believe in and desire complete perfection, it is an impossibility and any quest for it is futile. Hawthorne uses a variety of literary devices to exemplify this theme. theme First, Hawthorne uses point of view to create a mysterious air of uncertainty which makes the stories allegorical meaning visible. In some cases the storys narrator questions the reality of the events.? Hawthorne also uses tone to add to the already mysterious and unsure atmosphere. Additionally, through diction, Hawthorne creates a mysterious and magical air that also contributes to the theme.? theme Furthermore, Hawthorne also uses characterization to exemplify the meaning behind the theme. Through this type of characterization, Hawthorne shows the reader each characters desire (and failure) to attain perfection. theme Finally, Nathaniel Hawthorne uses Symbols to convey his theme. Many symbols in the story are ordinary objects, such as a mirror, that have more meaning than one would think. Four characters: four symbols Mr. Medbourne---was a prosperous merchant----lost his money through “frantic speculation”—represents wealth (but lost that wealth through greed) Colonel Killigrew—was a healthy man—lost his health through “pursuit of sinful pleasures”—womanizing, drinking, etc. (lost health through lust and gluttony) Characters continued: Mr. Gascoigne—w