How Does Victor Have Power in Frankenstein?

Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of power, ambition, and the consequences of playing god. In this essay, we will examine how Victor, the protagonist, wields power throughout the story and how the monster tries to gain control over him. By analyzing their interactions and the implications of their power dynamics, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between creator and creation.

The Power of Creation

At the heart of Victor's power lies his ability to create life. Through his scientific experiments, he brings the monster into existence. This act of creation grants Victor immense power over the monster, as he becomes its sole source of life and guidance. The monster, recognizing this power dynamic, attempts to gain control over Victor at various points in the text.

One instance where the monster tries to gain control over Victor is when he demands a mate. Feeling lonely and rejected by society, the monster believes that having a companion would alleviate his suffering. He tries to manipulate Victor by promising to leave humanity alone if his request is fulfilled. By doing so, the monster attempts to exert power over Victor's sense of guilt and responsibility. However, Victor resists, fearing the potential consequences of creating another creature like the monster.

Another way in which the monster tries to gain control is through acts of violence. As the novel progresses, the monster resorts to killing innocent people, hoping to provoke Victor into complying with his demands. By instilling fear and playing on Victor's emotions, the monster seeks to assert power over his creator. However, Victor remains steadfast in his refusal to create a mate for the monster, despite the threats and manipulation.

The Power of Knowledge

In addition to his power as a creator, Victor also possesses immense knowledge and intellect. His pursuit of scientific knowledge drives him to create the monster, but it also gives him power over the natural world. Victor's understanding of science allows him to manipulate the laws of nature and bring the dead back to life. This power over life and death grants Victor a god-like status and gives him control over the monster's existence.

The monster recognizes Victor's knowledge as a source of power and attempts to gain control by demanding knowledge of his own. He asks Victor to teach him how to navigate the world and understand human emotions. The monster believes that acquiring this knowledge will enable him to integrate into society and find acceptance. By seeking knowledge from Victor, the monster tries to shift the power dynamic and gain control over his own destiny.

The Power of Victor's Guilt

Throughout the novel, Victor is haunted by guilt and remorse over his creation. He feels responsible for the monster's actions and the pain it inflicts on others. The monster manipulates Victor's guilt to gain control over him, using it as a weapon to coerce Victor into fulfilling his desires.

One example of the monster exploiting Victor's guilt is when he confronts him on the mountains. The monster recounts the suffering he has endured and appeals to Victor's sense of responsibility for his creation. By emphasizing the pain he has experienced as a result of Victor's actions, the monster tries to gain control over Victor's emotions and force him to comply with his demands.

Despite the monster's attempts to gain control, Victor ultimately retains power over him. His refusal to create a mate for the monster and his determination to destroy his creation demonstrate his ability to resist manipulation and assert his own agency. While the monster may hold some power in their relationship, Victor's power as the creator and the one who controls life and death ultimately prevails.

Conclusion

In Frankenstein, Victor's power is derived from his ability to create life and his vast knowledge. The monster attempts to gain control over him by demanding a mate, resorting to violence, seeking knowledge, and exploiting his guilt. However, Victor's refusal to succumb to these attempts highlights his own agency and power as the creator. The power dynamics between creator and creation are complex, and Shelley's novel raises important questions about the ethics and consequences of wielding such power.

By examining the ways in which Victor has power in Frankenstein and how the monster tries to gain control, we can gain insight into the larger themes of the novel. The relationship between creator and creation is fraught with tension, and the consequences of playing god are explored in depth. Frankenstein serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers that lie in wielding power without considering the implications.

Bibliography

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Classics, 2003.