Frankenstein: Victor is The Villain, not Victim

Throughout Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, the character of Victor Frankenstein is often portrayed as a victim, haunted by the consequences of his actions. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that Victor is, in fact, the true villain of the story. This essay will explore Victor's role as the villain by analyzing his abandonment of the creature and the reasons behind this decision.

Why Did Victor Abandon the Creature?

Victor's abandonment of the creature is a pivotal moment in the novel, one that sets the stage for the tragic events that follow. One possible reason for Victor's decision to abandon the creature is his initial shock and horror at its appearance. When he first brings the creature to life, Victor is repulsed by its grotesque form, exclaiming, "I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart" (Shelley, 43). This reaction reveals Victor's shallow and superficial nature, as he is unable to look past the creature's physical appearance and recognize its potential for good.

Another reason for Victor's abandonment of the creature is his fear of the unknown. The creature is a product of Victor's scientific experimentation, and its existence challenges Victor's belief in the natural order of things. By creating life, Victor has played God, and when faced with the consequences of his actions, he is filled with fear and regret. Victor himself admits, "I had... deprived myself of rest and health" (Shelley, 58), illustrating his own realization that he has gone against the natural order of things and disrupted the balance of life.

Furthermore, Victor's abandonment of the creature can be attributed to his selfish nature. After the initial shock and fear wear off, Victor begins to view the creature as a burden, something that threatens his own well-being. He states, "I had resolved in my own mind that to create another like the fiend I had first made would be an act of the basest and most atrocious selfishness" (Shelley, 115). This quote demonstrates Victor's lack of empathy and his willingness to prioritize his own comfort and safety over the well-being of another sentient being.

Implications of Victor's Abandonment

Victor's decision to abandon the creature has far-reaching implications, both for himself and for the world around him. By rejecting his creation, Victor sets in motion a series of events that lead to tragedy and destruction. The creature, abandoned and rejected by its creator, seeks revenge and becomes a murderous force, causing the deaths of innocent people. This highlights the devastating consequences of Victor's actions and his failure to take responsibility for his creation.

Moreover, Victor's abandonment of the creature can be seen as a reflection of society's tendency to reject and ostracize those who are different. The creature, despite its desire for companionship and acceptance, is met with fear and disgust, much like Victor's initial reaction. This raises important questions about the nature of humanity and the way society treats those who do not fit within its narrow definition of normalcy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Victor Frankenstein is not the victim he is often portrayed as, but rather the true villain of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. His decision to abandon the creature reflects his shallow nature, fear of the unknown, and selfishness. The implications of this abandonment are far-reaching, leading to tragedy and highlighting society's tendency to reject those who are different. By examining Victor's actions and their consequences, it becomes clear that he is responsible for the devastation that occurs throughout the novel. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.