Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a novel that explores various themes, one of which is betrayal. Throughout the text, betrayal is depicted in different forms and has significant implications for the characters and the narrative as a whole. This essay will analyze the theme of betrayal in Frankenstein, highlighting its manifestations and the consequences it entails. As we examine the actions of Victor Frankenstein, the Creature, and other characters, it becomes apparent that betrayal is at the heart of the story and has a profound impact on both the betrayer and the person betrayed. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay One of the main examples of betrayal in Frankenstein is Victor Frankenstein's betrayal of his own creation. After bringing the creature to life, Victor is initially repulsed by its appearance and abandons it, leaving the creature to fend for itself in a hostile world. This betrayal is evident in Victor's own words when he exclaims, "I saw the wretch—the wretched monster that I had created" (Shelley, 60). Victor's act of abandonment is an act of betrayal, as he fails to take responsibility for his creation and allows it to suffer. The consequences of Victor's betrayal are considerable. The creature, who initially seeks love and companionship, is denied these basic human needs, leading to his transformation into a vengeful being. The Creature's actions, such as killing Victor's loved ones, can be seen as a direct response to the betrayal he suffered. Therefore, Victor's betrayal not only affects the Creature but also contributes to the overall tragic events of the novel. Although Victor's betrayal is significant, the Creature also engages in acts of betrayal throughout the novel. The most notable example is when the creature asks Victor to create a companion for it, promising to leave humanity alone if this request is met. However, when Victor begins the process of creating a second creature, he ends up betraying the creature by destroying its potential mate. This betrayal has serious consequences for the creature, as it further alienates and isolates it from society. The Creature’s reaction to this betrayal is evident when he states, “Remember that I have power; you think you are unhappy, but I can make you so unhappy that the light of day will be odious to you” (Shelley, 169). By betraying the Creature's trust, Victor ultimately pushes her to seek revenge and perpetuate a cycle of betrayal. Beyond the central characters, Frankenstein also depicts betrayal through the actions of secondary characters. For example, Elizabeth, Victor's fiancée, is betrayed when Victor refuses to marry her until he completes his scientific pursuits. This betrayal is evident in Elizabeth's letter to Victor, where she expresses her anguish: "But in reporting the progress of my intellect, I must not omit to relate my unhappy rupture with my only companion" (Shelley, 101) . Victor's prioritization of his scientific ambitions over his relationship with Elizabeth ultimately leads to his betrayal and tragic fate. Additionally, the betrayal of societal norms and expectations is also a prevalent theme in Frankenstein. Victor's quest for forbidden knowledge and his obsession with creating life can be seen as a betrayal of the natural order. This betrayal is reflected in the consequences Victor and those around him face, as the Creature's unnatural creation disrupts the harmony of the world.ConclusionEn., 2003.