A Comparison of Frankenstein to Prometheus

In literature, the character of Frankenstein and the mythological figure of Prometheus share several similarities. Both Frankenstein and Prometheus explore the boundaries of scientific knowledge and the consequences of playing god. This essay will analyze the similarities between Frankenstein and Prometheus, focusing on their roles as creators, their ambitions, and the consequences of their actions. By examining these similarities, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed by Mary Shelley in her novel Frankenstein.

Creators

Both Frankenstein and Prometheus are portrayed as creators in their respective stories. Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist, creates life by bringing together various body parts and animating them. Similarly, Prometheus, a Titan, creates humanity by molding clay and giving it life through fire stolen from the gods. The act of creation is a fundamental similarity between these characters, as they challenge the natural order and assume the role of gods themselves.

Moreover, both Frankenstein and Prometheus are driven by a desire to surpass the limitations of human existence. Frankenstein yearns to conquer death and create life, while Prometheus rebels against the gods to give humanity the gift of knowledge. Their ambition to push the boundaries of what is considered possible aligns them as characters who defy societal norms and challenge the established order.

Ambitions

Frankenstein and Prometheus also share ambitious goals that ultimately lead to their downfall. Frankenstein's desire to create life stems from his fascination with science and the possibility of achieving god-like power. He becomes obsessed with the idea of creating a being that is superior to humans. Similarly, Prometheus seeks to elevate humanity by giving them fire, which symbolizes knowledge and technological advancement.

However, their ambitions prove to be their undoing. Frankenstein's creature turns out to be a monstrosity, shunned by society and seeking revenge on its creator. Prometheus, on the other hand, faces the wrath of the gods as punishment for his defiance. Both characters suffer immense consequences for their audacious actions, highlighting the dangers of playing god and tampering with natural order.

Consequences

The consequences of Frankenstein and Prometheus' actions are far-reaching and disastrous. Frankenstein's creature, abandoned and rejected by its creator, becomes a symbol of the destructive potential of unchecked ambition. It wreaks havoc on society, causing death and destruction wherever it goes. Similarly, Prometheus' gift of fire leads to the advancement of civilization but also brings about suffering and turmoil.

Furthermore, both characters experience deep regret and guilt for their actions. Frankenstein is plagued by guilt for creating a being that brings about so much devastation, while Prometheus suffers eternal punishment for his defiance of the gods. Their remorse serves as a warning against the dangers of overreaching ambition and the consequences of playing god.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Frankenstein and Prometheus share several similarities in their roles as creators, their ambitions, and the consequences of their actions. Both characters challenge the natural order and seek to elevate humanity through their audacious pursuits. However, their ambitions prove to be their downfall, as they face immense consequences for their actions. Frankenstein's creature embodies the destructive potential of unchecked ambition, while Prometheus suffers eternal punishment for his defiance. Through these similarities, Mary Shelley conveys the dangers of playing god and the repercussions of tampering with the natural order. By examining the parallels between Frankenstein and Prometheus, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in Shelley's novel.

Works Cited

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Classics, 2003.