Comparing Victor Frankenstein and The Monster

From the moment Mary Shelley's novel, "Frankenstein," was published in 1818, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster have captivated readers. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that these two characters share striking similarities. This essay will explore the keyword similarities between Victor and the Monster, shedding light on their shared experiences, desires, and ultimately, their tragic fates.

One of the most prominent similarities between Victor and the Monster is their profound sense of isolation and loneliness. Victor's pursuit of knowledge and ambition alienates him from his friends and family, leaving him emotionally detached. Similarly, the Monster is rejected by society due to his hideous appearance, leading him to long for companionship.

Victor's isolation is evident when he states, "I desire the company of a man who could sympathize with me, whose eyes would reply to mine" (Shelley 80). This longing for understanding and connection mirrors the Monster's heartfelt plea, "I am alone and miserable; man will not associate with me" (Shelley 99). Both characters yearn for companionship, emphasizing their shared emotional turmoil.

Furthermore, their loneliness has devastating consequences. Victor's isolation leads him to neglect his creation, allowing the Monster to grow resentful and seek revenge. Similarly, the Monster's isolation drives him to commit heinous acts, as he believes that "evil thenceforth became [his] good" (Shelley 153). This parallel highlights the destructive power of loneliness and the tragic outcomes it can yield.

Another significant similarity between Victor and the Monster lies in their insatiable desires for knowledge and power. Victor's pursuit of scientific discovery consumes him, as he becomes obsessed with creating life. Similarly, the Monster craves knowledge and power, longing to be recognized and feared by humanity.

Victor's obsession with knowledge is evident when he exclaims, "Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature... these were the aspirations" (Shelley 43). This relentless pursuit mirrors the Monster's desire for knowledge, as he seeks to "grapple with the complexities of life" (Shelley 118). Both characters are driven by their thirst for understanding and control, highlighting their shared ambitions.

Furthermore, their desires for power lead to their downfall. Victor's creation of the Monster results in his own misery and destruction, while the Monster's desire for power drives him to seek revenge on his creator. This parallel emphasizes the dangerous consequences of unchecked ambition and the devastating effects it can have on both individuals and society.

Lastly, both Victor and the Monster experience alienation from society due to their differences. Victor isolates himself from society due to his unconventional scientific pursuits, while the Monster is shunned by humanity because of his monstrous appearance.

Victor's alienation is evident when he states, "I shunned my fellow creatures as if... I had been guilty of a crime" (Shelley 75). This self-imposed isolation mirrors the Monster's experience, as he is constantly rejected by others due to his physical appearance. Both characters face societal rejection, emphasizing their shared sense of marginalization.

Furthermore, their alienation leads to a sense of bitterness and resentment. Victor's isolation fuels his guilt and remorse, while the Monster's rejection fuels his anger and desire for revenge. This parallel highlights the destructive impact of societal exclusion and the profound effect it can have on an individual's psyche.

Victor Frankenstein and the Monster share several keyword similarities throughout Mary Shelley's novel. Their experiences of isolation and loneliness, desires for knowledge and power, and alienation from society intertwine their narratives, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. This exploration of their similarities sheds light on the complexities of human nature and the destructive potential of unchecked ambition and societal rejection.

By juxtaposing these characters, Shelley invites readers to reflect on the blurred boundaries between creator and creation, and the moral implications of playing God. Moreover, the parallels between Victor and the Monster prompt us to examine our own desires for knowledge, power, and connection, urging us to consider the potential consequences of our actions.

In conclusion, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster serve as cautionary examples of the dangers of isolation, unchecked ambition, and societal exclusion. By examining their shared experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the profound impacts of our choices. Shelley's novel continues to resonate with readers, reminding us of the importance of empathy, responsibility, and the consequences of our actions.

Bibliography

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Books, 2018.