The ambiguity encompassed amongst the varied literary works by Hawthorne, and the allegorical symbols within the pages of influential diction, establish inter-locked, dominant themes such as obsession, materialistic ideals, and the incompetence or the failures amongst all mankind. The eloquent works by Hawthorne share ideas reflected by the reality of life and the truths associated with life. "Heidegger's Experiment" and "The Birthmark", both inscribed by Nathaniel Hawthorne during the period of American Romanticism, settle under categories of exceptional employment of allegorical symbols. Profound speculations about the distinctive factors of mortality and both the superficial and fruitful aspects of mortal endurance also partake vigorous roles in Romantic literature and establish dominant themes. Within these two short stories, there are constant references to the theme of scientific blunders that are fabricated by the idea that scientific idealists (with extensive knowledge regarding the subject) are able to achieve control over the human mind, heart, and even the soul. The failures and losses involved with the scientific practices constantly recur with in the plots of Hawthorne's penetrating works, creating yet another eminent theme. The in satisfaction with imperfection leads to an extreme lust or obsession to overcome the defects associated with all mortality establishing other common rationales. .
Hawthorne has developed a deep sense of style in which he embraces allegorical symbols, and brings out the internal representation of inanimate and living characters. A narrative intertwined with the theme about the values taught by youth, "Heidegger's Experiment" is cluttered with allegories and a writing style full with ambiguity. Widow Wycherly becomes the representation of archetype beauty that can only be conceived by youth; this reflects the shallow aspects of social ideals and stresses external beauty rather than embracing internal beauty.
