Similarities Between Frankenstein and Paradise Lost

Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, and Paradise Lost, by John Milton, are two literary works that explore themes of creation, power, and the consequences of playing God. Both texts depict characters who seek knowledge and power beyond their limits, resulting in disastrous outcomes. In Frankenstein, the monster compares and contrasts himself with Adam from Paradise Lost, highlighting their shared experiences of isolation and rejection. By examining the similarities between these two characters, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes present in both works.

Isolation and Rejection

One of the key similarities between the monster in Frankenstein and Adam in Paradise Lost is their shared experience of isolation and rejection. The monster, created by Victor Frankenstein, is immediately abandoned by his creator and left to navigate the world alone. Similarly, Adam is initially left alone in the Garden of Eden by God. Both characters are devoid of companionship and are forced to confront their loneliness.

In Paradise Lost, Adam mourns his solitude, expressing his desire for a companion. He compares himself to the animals who have each other, saying, "For while I sit with thee, I seem in Heav'n, / And sweeter thy discourse is to my ear / Than fruits of palm-tree (VIII. 237-239)." The monster in Frankenstein can relate to Adam's longing for companionship, as he too yearns for a connection with others. He compares himself to Adam when he states, "Like Adam, I was created apparently united by no link to any other being in existence; but his state was far different from mine in every other respect (Shelley, 101)." These comparisons highlight the shared sense of isolation experienced by both characters.

Furthermore, both the monster and Adam are rejected by their respective creators. Victor Frankenstein rejects his creation, unable to bear the sight of his monstrous form. Similarly, God rejects Adam when he cast him out of the Garden of Eden for his disobedience. The monster laments this rejection, saying, "I am solitary and abhorred (Shelley, 102)." Adam also feels the weight of God's rejection, as he states, "What boots it at one gate to make defence, / And at another to let in the foe (XII. 624-625)?" Both characters grapple with the pain of being rejected by those who were meant to care for and protect them.

The Quest for Knowledge

Another similarity between the monster and Adam lies in their pursuit of knowledge. Both characters are driven by a desire to expand their understanding of the world around them. The monster, after gaining the ability to read and speak, becomes fascinated by the works of literature he encounters. He compares himself to Adam, stating, "I found myself similar, yet at the same time strangely unlike, to the beings concerning whom I read, and to whose conversation I was a listener (Shelley, 117)." This comparison illustrates the monster's yearning to acquire knowledge and connect with the world.

Similarly, Adam in Paradise Lost is eager to learn about his surroundings and the beings he encounters. He describes his curiosity, saying, "For well I understand in the prime end / Of nature her the inferior, in the mind / And inward faculties, which most excel (VIII. 214-216)." Adam's pursuit of knowledge reflects his desire to understand his own existence and the world he inhabits.

However, both characters face consequences for their pursuit of knowledge. The monster's newfound understanding of the world only serves to deepen his isolation and suffering. He realizes the extent of his differences from humanity and the impossibility of ever truly belonging. Adam, too, faces consequences for seeking knowledge when he is banished from the Garden of Eden and forced to face a harsh and unfamiliar world.

Conclusion

Through the comparison of the monster in Frankenstein and Adam in Paradise Lost, we can see how both characters experience isolation and rejection, as well as a thirst for knowledge. These similarities highlight the universal themes present in both works, such as the consequences of playing God and the inherent dangers of unchecked ambition. By exploring these shared experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex themes and messages conveyed in both Frankenstein and Paradise Lost. The monster's comparisons to Adam serve to emphasize his humanity and evoke sympathy from the reader, highlighting the tragic consequences of his creation. Overall, the similarities between the two characters shed light on the profound and timeless themes explored in these literary works.

Bibliography

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Oxford University Press, 2008.

Milton, John. Paradise Lost. Penguin Classics, 2003.