Dr. Heidegger's Experiment

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1837

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Story Analysis

Character Analysis

Themes

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Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Consider how old age is characterized in this story. Why do the guests laugh “feebly” when the doctor suggests it would be a “sin and shame” if they fail to become patterns of virtue? If you had the chance to partake in the experiment by drinking the water of youth, would you? Why or why not?

Consider the role of gender in the story. Do you think the roles attributed to the female and male characters in the story are stereotypical? Are there any similarities to gender roles today as there are in the story?

Examine the character of Dr. Heidegger and consider his motivation for conducting the experiment. Look at the text for clues.