Hawthorne, Nathaniel: 1804-1864

Doctor Heidegger's Experiment, 1837 - Characters

  • 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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