In this short
story, Hawthorne forwards his views on science most directly through the character of the
scientist Rappaccini. Rappaccini's physical description shows what a lifetime of dedication to
science has done to his body. He is described as an "emaciated, sallow, and sickly-looking
man."
Hawthorne uses Giovanni's observations of Rappaccini to forward
his ideas. Giovanni, for instance, notes that though it is clear Rappaccini is an intelligent
man, there is no evidence of "warmth of heart."
It is obvious that
Hawthorne believes that in using all his energy towards science, Rappaccini has lost touch with
humanity itself.
Baglioni reinforces this idea when he tells Giovanni that
Rappaccini "cares infinitely more for science than for mankind." He goes to say that
he believes that Rappaccini would sacrifice his own life or loved ones to gain knowledge or
build on his scientific success.
Rappaccini's garden also forwards the
author's views on the dangers of being obsessed with science. Rappaccini's garden looks
beautiful, but its plants are scientific creations, deadly and toxic even to smell.
For example, Giovanni notes that when Rappaccini walks among his creations, it reminds
him of someone "walking among malignant influences, such as savage beasts, or deadly
snakes, or evil spirits."
Though Rappaccini does love his daughter
Beatrice, his attempts to keep her safe by isolating her within his scientifically altered
garden also make her touch poisonous, thus keeping her from the beauty of love and
companionship.
Throughand setting, Hawthorne seems to say that a humans'
obsession with science causes them to lose their true focus in life, which should be creating
love and being in tune with humanity. Hawthorne hints through this story that when humans with
limited knowledge of God's ultimate designs begin to try to control things through science, the
results are often more fatal than beneficial.
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