Frankenstein: Similarities Between Victor and The Monster

Frankenstein: Similarities Between Victor and the Monster

Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a novel that explores the consequences of ambition, isolation, and the pursuit of knowledge. Throughout the narrative, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster share several similarities, despite their inherent differences. This essay aims to analyze these similarities through an exploration of their shared emotional experiences, their desire for companionship, and their pursuit of revenge. By examining these commonalities, it becomes evident that Victor and the Monster are not as disparate as they initially appear, highlighting the complex nature of their relationship and the underlying themes of the novel.

One of the striking similarities between Victor and the Monster is their experience of profound loneliness and isolation. Both characters are profoundly affected by their lack of companionship, which leads to a sense of despair and longing. Victor's isolation stems from his obsessive pursuit of knowledge and his disregard for personal relationships. He becomes so consumed by his ambition that he neglects his family and friends, resulting in a deep sense of loneliness. Similarly, the Monster's isolation is a direct consequence of his appearance, which renders him an outcast in society. He longs for human connection but is repeatedly rejected due to his grotesque physical appearance.

The shared emotional experience of loneliness leads both Victor and the Monster to question their existence and seek solace in destructive actions. Victor, burdened by guilt and remorse for creating the Monster, isolates himself further, believing that his actions have brought only misery and suffering. The Monster, on the other hand, seeks revenge against Victor for abandoning him and denying him a companion. These shared emotional experiences demonstrate the profound impact of loneliness and the psychological toll it takes on both characters.

Victor and the Monster also share an intense desire for companionship, albeit expressed in different ways. Victor's pursuit of knowledge and scientific experimentation is driven by his longing for a companion who can match his intellect. He believes that creating life will provide him with the companionship he craves. However, once the Monster is brought to life, Victor is repulsed by his creation and denies him the companionship he so desperately sought.

Similarly, the Monster's desire for companionship is evident throughout the novel. He learns about human interactions by observing the De Lacey family and longs for a similar connection. His yearning for companionship is so strong that he resorts to violence and murder in an attempt to force Victor to create a female companion for him. This shared desire for companionship highlights the universal human need for connection and the devastating consequences of its absence.

Another significant similarity between Victor and the Monster is their pursuit of revenge. Both characters are driven by a desire to seek justice for the wrongs they have suffered. Victor, consumed by guilt and remorse, becomes obsessed with destroying the Monster, believing that by doing so, he can alleviate his own pain and suffering. He embarks on a relentless quest for revenge, pursuing the Monster across continents and sacrificing his own well-being in the process.

Similarly, the Monster's pursuit of revenge is fueled by his deep sense of abandonment and rejection. He seeks to inflict emotional pain upon Victor by murdering his loved ones, hoping that this will make Victor understand the depth of his own suffering. The Monster's pursuit of revenge highlights the destructive nature of unchecked emotions and the cyclical nature of violence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein share several similarities, despite their seemingly contrasting natures. Their shared emotional experiences of loneliness and isolation, their desire for companionship, and their pursuit of revenge highlight the complex and intertwined relationship between the two characters. Through their similarities, Shelley explores themes of ambition, isolation, and the consequences of unchecked emotions. The parallels between Victor and the Monster serve as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the dangers of obsession and the importance of empathy and human connection.

Works Cited

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Classics, 2003.