How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Paragraph)
Quote #4
The mind is in a sad state when Sleep, the all-involving, cannot confine her spectres within the dim region of her sway, but suffers them to break forth, affrighting this actual life with secrets that perchance belong to a deeper one. (14)
Hawthorne seems to have firm ideas about what belongs to the realm of man and what is beyond the scene of his knowledge or possession. This passage is a mini-version of the larger theme at play here in "The Birthmark."
Quote #5
"It may be the stain goes as deep as life itself." (16)
Georgiana's line is well-fitting, with Aylmer's interpretation of the mark as a symbol of man's imperfection. On some level, both of these characters understand the symbolic meaning of Hawthorne's intended parable.
Quote #6
"Fear not, dearest!'' exclaimed he. "Do not shrink from me! Believe me, Georgiana, I even rejoice in this single imperfection, since it will be such a rapture to remove it.'' (31)
Perhaps Aylmer is more interested in the removal of the birthmark as a scientific endeavor, rather than as a matter of perfecting his wife. He's certainly enjoying the chance to delve back into his semi-abandoned scientific career, and of course to rival Nature for a chance at being a creator.