The Mark of the Original Sin: "The Birthmark" by Hawthorne.

In Hawthorne's "The Birthmark," Georgiana's birthmark bears the shape of a hand, but the "hand" refers to much more than a physical description. Alluding to the mark as a work of God, Hawthorne implies God created this flaw as a portrayal of the predestined sin. Although Georgiana appears perfect, she lives the life of a mortal, therefore she must carry the burden of Original Sin. Aylmer blames Nature for this "fatal flaw of humanity" and …

…Hawthorne illustrates how individuals should accept their shortcomings, rather than try to conceal or remove them. Because Aylmer tries to perfect God's work, he ultimately proves unsuccessful. Georgiana's birthmark symbolizes the Original Sin bestowed upon all by the "hand" of God. Thus, the birthmark represents the imprint of God's hand itself. As a mere mortal, Aylmer cannot rid his wife of this "crimson hand," for God's strength and powers far surpass the abilities of Aylmer.