Identify two central themes in "Dr Heidegger's Experiment" and explain how Hawthorne develops these themes. Cite textual evidence from the story to support your answer.

The overall theme for "Dr. Heidegger's Experiment" includes (1) people's lack of eagerness to change from bad habits. It also deals with (2) how easily vulnerable people are to the powers of suggestion.

The tale starts with Dr. Heidegger inviting four of his old friends to partake in an experiment in his. Each of the friends has a vice or personality that has been the main cause of his present misfortunes. For example one friend was too greedy; while another's hedonistic way of life caused him to experience many illnesses.

The doctor tells his guests he has found the secret to everlasting youth. All his friends are willing to try this elixir from the fountain of youth (2), but before that Dr. Heidegger told them that they should use their new found youth to provide as an example to the younger generation, having experienced the pitfalls of life themselves. However, (1) all of his friends inevitably recur the same behavior that caused them struggles in the first place.