Archetypes in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a gothic novel that explores the themes of creation, ambition, and human nature. Throughout the text, Shelley incorporates various archetypes that add depth and complexity to the story. These archetypes act as recurring symbols or patterns that reflect universal human experiences and emotions. By analyzing these archetypes, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and the overall message of the novel. This essay will examine the archetypes of the mad scientist, the monster, and the doppelgänger in Frankenstein, highlighting their significance and implications.

The Mad Scientist

One of the most prominent archetypes in Frankenstein is the mad scientist, which is embodied by Victor Frankenstein himself. Victor's ambitious pursuit of creating life from dead matter aligns with the archetype of the mad scientist, a character obsessed with pushing the boundaries of science and morality. This archetype is rooted in the fear and fascination humans have with the power of science and the consequences of tampering with nature.

In the novel, Victor's madness is evident in his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his disregard for the ethical implications of his actions. Shelley writes, "I pursued nature to her hiding places... I collected bones from charnel-houses and disturbed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame" (Shelley 36). This quote highlights Victor's dangerous obsession and his willingness to cross moral boundaries in his quest for scientific discovery.

The archetype of the mad scientist in Frankenstein serves to warn readers about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the potential consequences of playing god. Victor's creation of the monster ultimately leads to his own downfall, as he becomes consumed by guilt and despair. This archetype reminds us of the ethical responsibility that comes with scientific advancement and the importance of considering the potential repercussions of our actions.

The Monster

Another significant archetype in Frankenstein is the monster itself. The monster represents the Other, the outsider who is rejected by society due to his appearance and unfamiliarity. This archetype reflects humanity's fear of the unknown and the tendency to reject those who are different. The monster's physical appearance, described as "yellow skin... glossy black lips... watery eyes" (Shelley 51), evokes a sense of repulsion in those who encounter him.

Despite his monstrous appearance, the monster possesses a complex and sensitive nature. He longs for companionship and acceptance, but is met with rejection and violence from humans. This rejection fuels the monster's anger and desire for revenge. Shelley writes, "I am malicious because I am miserable. Am I not shunned and hated by all mankind?" (Shelley 107). This quote reveals the monster's deep sense of isolation and highlights the tragic consequences of society's prejudice and fear.

The archetype of the monster in Frankenstein challenges readers to examine their own biases and prejudices. It serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that true understanding requires empathy and compassion. The monster's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of judging others based solely on their physical appearance.

The Doppelgänger

The archetype of the doppelgänger appears in Frankenstein through the parallel between Victor Frankenstein and his creation. The doppelgänger represents the divided self, the internal conflict within an individual. Victor and the monster share a deep connection, as they are both creators and destroyers. They mirror each other's desires and flaws, embodying the duality of human nature.

Throughout the novel, Victor and the monster engage in a destructive dance, each seeking revenge on the other. The monster's existence is a direct result of Victor's ambition, while Victor's suffering is a consequence of his creation. This doppelgänger relationship highlights the interconnectedness of their fates and the inescapable consequences of their actions.

Shelley uses the archetype of the doppelgänger to explore the themes of responsibility and accountability. Victor and the monster are bound together, forever linked by their shared creation. Their story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of considering the long-term consequences of our actions and the ethical implications of our choices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a novel rich in archetypes that add depth and meaning to the story. The mad scientist, the monster, and the doppelgänger are just a few examples of the archetypes present in the novel. These archetypes serve to highlight universal human experiences and emotions, such as ambition, fear, and the consequences of our actions. By analyzing these archetypes, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and the broader message of the novel. Frankenstein serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition, the importance of empathy and acceptance, and the interconnectedness of our actions and their consequences.

Bibliography

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Classics, 2003.