短语讲解：

1. It was not unusual for the love of science to compete with the love of a woman.

compete with 与…抗争
例句：Here was a car priced to compete with the small imports.
这部车的定价可与进口的小车竞争。

2. Her face reddened and she burst into tears.

burst into tears 流泪; 突然大哭
例句：He looked as if he was about to burst into tears.
他看上去马上就会泪流满面.

3. And the birthmark would stand out like a red jewel on white stone.

stand out 突出; 坚持
例句：Red plums stand out against the white snow.
红梅衬着白雪十分醒目。

4. I will drink whatever you make for me, even if it is a poison.
 
even if 哪怕; 虽然; 即使
例句：You've got a fine case, even if you haven't got witnesses.
你的案子对你有利，即使你没有见证人。