"The Birthmark" is often read as an allegory (a story in which the contents and
characters are symbolic of something, rather than a realistic representation).
Alymer is a scientist with an obsession. In what way might Alymer be an allegorical
character?

He represents the human desire to please others more than himself.
He represents the morally perfect human specimen who has figured out that the
meaning of life.
He represents the dangers of viewing science-and scientists-as all-powerful.
He represents the benefits of scientific discovery as a means for attaining human
perfection.