Victor is The True Villain of Frankenstein

Who is the true villain in Frankenstein? This question has been debated by scholars and readers alike since Mary Shelley's novel was first published in 1818. While some may argue that the creature, with his violent actions and thirst for revenge, is the primary antagonist of the story, a closer examination reveals that Victor Frankenstein himself is the true villain. Through his selfish ambition, neglectful actions, and refusal to take responsibility for his creation, Victor proves himself to be the driving force behind the tragedy and chaos that ensues. This essay will explore the various aspects of Victor's character and actions that support the claim that he is the true villain of Frankenstein.

Victor's Selfish Ambition

One of the key factors that contribute to Victor's villainy is his selfish ambition. From a young age, Victor is driven by a desire for knowledge and power, which ultimately leads him to create the creature. Victor's obsession with science and his belief that he can "penetrate into the recesses of nature and show how she works in her hiding places" (Shelley 27) blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions. Instead of considering the ethical implications of creating life, Victor is solely focused on his own glory and the pursuit of knowledge.

Victor's ambition is further highlighted by his reaction to the creature's existence. Instead of taking responsibility for his creation, Victor abandons the creature and refuses to acknowledge his role in its creation. He is more concerned with preserving his reputation and protecting himself from the consequences of his actions than with the well-being of the creature. This is evident in his response when the creature approaches him for guidance and companionship: "Begone! I do break my promise; never will I create another like yourself, equal in deformity and wickedness" (Shelley 100). Victor's rejection of the creature is a clear demonstration of his self-centeredness and lack of empathy.

Victor's Neglectful Actions

In addition to his selfish ambition, Victor's neglectful actions further solidify his status as the true villain of the story. After creating the creature, Victor abandons it, leaving it to fend for itself in a world that rejects and despises it. This neglectful act sets in motion a series of events that ultimately lead to tragedy and destruction. The creature, left to its own devices, becomes consumed by anger and seeks revenge against its creator.

Victor's neglect is also evident in his treatment of his loved ones. Throughout the novel, Victor consistently prioritizes his own desires and ambitions over the well-being of those around him. He isolates himself from his family and friends, neglecting their emotional needs and failing to provide them with the support they deserve. This neglect causes his loved ones to suffer and further contributes to the chaos and tragedy that unfold.

Victor's Refusal to Take Responsibility

Perhaps the most damning evidence of Victor's villainy is his refusal to take responsibility for his creation. Despite being the one who brought the creature to life, Victor consistently avoids acknowledging his role in its existence and the consequences that result from it. He consistently blames others for the creature's actions and refuses to accept any responsibility for the havoc it wreaks.

One example of Victor's refusal to take responsibility is his reaction to the deaths caused by the creature. Instead of recognizing his own role in these deaths, Victor blames the creature and absolves himself of any guilt. He says, "I was guiltless, but I had indeed drawn down a horrible curse upon my head, as mortal as that of crime" (Shelley 167). This statement reveals Victor's unwillingness to accept accountability for the consequences of his actions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Victor Frankenstein is the true villain of Frankenstein. His selfish ambition, neglectful actions, and refusal to take responsibility for his creation all contribute to the tragedy and chaos that unfold throughout the novel. While the creature may be seen as a product of Victor's actions, it is ultimately Victor's choices and behavior that make him the true antagonist of the story. By examining these aspects of Victor's character, it becomes clear that he is the true villain of Frankenstein. This raises important questions about the responsibility of creators and the ethical implications of scientific advancement, making Frankenstein a timeless and thought-provoking novel.

Bibliography

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Books, 2013.