This article analyzes the meaning and symbolism of the two main characters: Aylmer and Georgiana. It brought up some really interesting points about Georgiana's complexity as a character. The article suggests that Georgiana's complete devotion to her husband which resulted in her death could indicate that Hawthorne's purpose might have been to show that "women should not be expected to obey their husbands at all costs." It also points out that even though Georgiana seemed like the vulnerable housewife, she spent her time reading and understanding Aylmer's scientific library and experiments, revealing the highly intelligent and noble woman she was.
http://www.sparknotes.com/short-stories/the-birthmark/canalysis.html
I agree with you. When I read the story, I saw Aylmer as he really was, power hungry, corrupt, strong, but I never could understand Georgiana's character traits until I read this article. Georgiana is a very loving and devoted wife to her husband Aylmer. Even to the point of death. That fact there just shows how strong and courageous she was. To follow her husband's every wish, even though she knew she could and would eventually die. That is something to talk about. Also she was the ideal wife at that time. She did as she was told, she never spoke out against him, and she knew her opinion didn't really matter. She did what ever she had to do just to make him happy. That is Georgiana's traits.
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