The Man and the Monster in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

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In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein there are several parallels that can be drawn. One of the major parallels in the novel is the connection between Victor Frankenstein and the creature he creates; there is an interesting relationship between these two characters. Frankenstein and his creation are not blood related, however, their similarities bond the two. Despite their dislike for one another and their physical differences Frankenstein shares many characteristics with his creation, throughout the novel we see each of them find comfort in nature, become isolated from society, and seek revenge towards those who have wronged them. There is significance in these similarities; if Frankenstein’s creation had not been physically deformed they would not be as similar. Furthermore, Frankenstein can be held accountable for his creation’s hardships. In pursuit of knowledge, he becomes completely absorbed and creates what he calls a “demonical corpse”; several of the traits that the monster has acquired are a result of his deformities. For example, he has become isolated because others find him hideous, and for that reason he retreats to nature where no one can judge him. With all that in mind, the monster holds a lot of resentment towards his creator, Victor Frankenstein.
Nature acts as a means of comfort for both Victor and this creation. Even in the darkest of days the pleasures of nature have managed to soothe their souls and shed some light upon the darkness. We see several points throughout the novel where the enchanting wonders of nature have given them pleasure and hopefulness. Frankenstein speaks about how nature causes him to “forget the passing cares of life” (Shelley 82). Nature has a deep and profound effect upon Victor, amidst the...

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...dence reinforcing the parallels between Frankenstein and his creation. Frankenstein and his creation share a love for nature, have secluded themselves from others, and seek revenge towards those who have wronged them. Respectively, these three themes fit very well with one another. Finding pleasure in nature and isolation coincide with one another. During the concluding chapters of the novel we see the interplay between isolation and vengeance. Victor and the monster’s solitude have generated a deep hatred for one another. These resemblances are important and would not exist if Frankenstein has created an attractive being. The monsters unpleasant appearance causes him and Victor a lot of hardship. Would Victor and his creation be more alike if his creation had been attractive?

Works Cited

Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. n.p., 2014. Feedbooks. Web. 13 February 2014.

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