Dr. Heidegger - An eccentric and elderly scientist who conducts an experiment with water from the Fountain of Youth on his four elderly friends. He has a keen interest in both science and the occult.

Widow Wycherly - A once beautiful woman who was shunned by society for her scandalous relationships in her youth, including with the other three male guests. When made young again by the water, she becomes vain and delights in the attention of the men.

Colonel Killigrew - A former military officer who wasted his youth in pursuit of sinful pleasures like drinking and flirting. As a young man again, he immediately eyes the rejuvenated Widow Wycherly with desire.

Mr. Medbourne - A formerly wealthy merchant who squandered his fortune through unwise investments. Regaining his youth, he begins concocting get-rich-quick schemes again.

Mr. Gascoigne - A notoriously corrupt politician in his youth who returns to spouting meaningless rhetoric when made young by the water. Like the others, he becomes infatuated with the youthful Widow Wycherly.

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Youth and Old Age
The central premise revolves around reversing the aging process and regaining youth. It examines the desire for eternal youth and questions whether wisdom comes with age or if people are doomed to repeat past mistakes. The story invites reflection on the benefits and drawbacks of youth versus old age.

Human Nature and Morality
The experiment serves as a study of human nature, revealing the characters' true selves when liberated from the constraints of age. It explores whether people can learn from past errors or if innate flaws and vices persist regardless of age or wisdom gained. The characters' reckless behavior after regaining youth suggests an inability to change their immoral ways.

The Supernatural and Science
Hawthorne blends supernatural elements like the magical "Fountain of Youth" water with scientific experimentation. Dr. Heidegger represents the rational, empirical mind testing metaphysical concepts. The story examines the relationship between science and the unknown.

Redemption and Second Chances
The experiment offers the elderly guests a rare opportunity for redemption - a chance to re-live their youth while applying lessons from past mistakes. However, their failure to do so raises questions about the possibility of true redemption for inherently flawed individuals.

In summary, Hawthorne's tale is a multi-layered exploration of the human condition, our desires, flaws, and the potential for change, couched in supernatural and scientific themes.

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Doctor Heidegger is portrayed as a learned but somewhat morally ambiguous character. His role as both a scientist and a magician-like figure adds a layer of mystery and ambiguity to the story.

Each guest represents a different vice or flaw—greed, vanity, lust, and hubris. Their inability to change, even when physically transformed back to their youthful selves, serves as a critique of human nature.

The rose that withers and then rejuvenates symbolizes the transient nature of beauty and life. Its final withering at the story's end reinforces the idea that true change is impossible and that life’s cycles are inevitable.

Upon its publication, "Doctor Heidegger's Experiment" was well-received and appreciated for its moral and philosophical depth. It has since become a staple in studies of Hawthorne’s works, recognized for its rich symbolism and thematic complexity.

In summary, "Doctor Heidegger's Experiment" is perceived as a multifaceted story that offers a critical view of human nature and the pursuit of eternal youth, wrapped in Hawthorne’s characteristic allegorical and Gothic style.