Examples Of Marginalization Of Women In Frankenstein

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In the text, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Shelley interpreted that women are depicted as inferior beings that are subservient to men. The is highlighted by the way they are used and disposed in the text. Even when women are mentioned in Frankenstein, their femininity is overwhelmed by the dominance of masculine characters. Their marginalization can be observed in several scenes in the texts, for example during the court ruling of Justine, the rejection of a female creation and in Elizabeth’s role as Victors fiancé. In this paper, I will argue that Shelley used the lack of femininity incorporated in the novel to emphasize the detrimental effects of marginalizing women. In the text, Shelley highlights that the marginalization of women leads …show more content…

This is revealed through the denial over the creation of a female creature, which exemplifies the marginalization of women. Victor’s denial to create a female creature is due to his fears that involves the potential of the creature becoming independent or bearing children. This happened when the creature approached Victor and explained his frequent episodes of depression that were triggered by his sadness and loneliness. At first, Victor agreed to create a female creature out of fear and remorse that he felt for the creature. However, midway through the process, Victor destroys the creation due to the consequences that could arise. Victor begins by speculating that, “she might become ten thousand times more malignant than her mate,” meaning she would embody masculine characteristics and traits (Shelley 138). Victor fears that the creature may become independent, as males are portrayed in the novel, and choose an alternative route that ultimately leads to destruction. Or she may choose the traditional, expected female route and bear children, which would also lead towards destruction. Victor experiences the fear that the female creature may become a parasite to the world either by dismantling her role as tranquil or “appropriate” women, conforming to society or by creating additional wretched creatures. Ultimately, the denial of the female creation leads to the destruction of Victor’s loved ones, Victor, and the creature himself. Thus, when women depart from their designated roles in society they are forced to suffer the

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