Hawthorne, Nathaniel: 1804-1864

Doctor Heidegger's Experiment, 1837 - Information about the Book

General Information | Facts | Commentary | Explanations

General Information
- Dr. Heidegger's true experiment is an evaluation of human beings and whether or not they can learn from their mistakes.
- Information from Wikipedia
- Nathaniel Hawthorne’s inspiration for writing “Doctor Heidegger's Experiment.”
  
  Hawthorne frequently delved into themes of morality and human nature. In “Doctor Heidegger’s Experiment,” he explores the idea that people do not change despite having the opportunity to relive their youth. This reflects a pessimistic view of human nature, suggesting that individuals tend to repeat their mistakes rather than learn from them.
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Facts
- "Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment" was first published as "The Fountain Of Youth" in The Knickerbocker, January 1837.
- Awards: Although the short story hasn't received specific awards in the traditional sense, it has been widely acclaimed for its exploration of themes like human nature, mortality, and the pursuit of youth.
- Topics
  
  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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- General Perception
  
  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.
  
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Commentary
- Unlike Hawthorne's other stories about wicked scientists, who operate in isolation and whose experiments result in the death of one who is ignorant of the power of the science (see The Birthmark and Rappaccini's Daughter), this little vignette is airy. No one dies; the scientist's intent seems to be benign and the experimental effects are reversible.
  However, there is just a hint of the sinister in the setting, in the author's description of the doctor's study, and in the host's decision not to partake of the magic liquid with his friends. The moral of the little story is evasive, perhaps adding to the vaguely troubling effect it has on the reader who is familiar with the general tone of Hawthorne.
  Janice L. Willms, University of Washington
  Excerpted, with permission, from the Literature, Arts, and Medicine Database at New York University School of Medicine, © New York University.
Explanations
- Wasting the Water of Life: "Hawthorne’s fable can be read as a plea for scientific and technological responsibility." The New Atlantis; Fall 2009 - Winter 2010
- Detailed commentary and analysis
- Explanations
- Podcast
  A look at three activities covering diction analysis, grammar, and more. 2020
- Podcast
  Eric S. Rabkin and Jesse Willis discuss the short story. (30:00) 2016