Aylmer And Aminadab Symbolism

Aylmer and Aminadab act as symbols for perfection and reality. In many instances, Aylmer describes himself as a legend of some sort even stating, “Even Pygmalion, when his sculpted women assumed life, felt not greater ecstasy than mine will be!” (Hawthorne 355) If Aylmer symbolizes a higher being, Aminadab becomes a clear symbol of humanity and accepting others no matter their flaws. In truth, Hawthorne describes him as such when he says, "With...the indescribable earthiness that incrusted him, he seemed to represent man's physical nature" (cite). This contrast between them reflects the central conflict in the story, one between perfection and human