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Essay / Comparison of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster
From the time Mary Shelley's novel, “Frankenstein,” was published in 1818, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Monster have captivated readers. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that these two characters share striking similarities. This essay will explore the key similarities between Victor and the Monster, shedding light on their shared experiences, desires, and ultimately, their tragic fate. 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 most striking similarities between Victor and the Monster is their deep sense of isolation and loneliness. Victor's quest for knowledge and ambition alienates him from his friends and family, leaving him emotionally detached. Likewise, the Monster is shunned by society due to his hideous appearance, leading him to long for companionship. Victor's isolation is evident when he states: "I desire the company of a man who could sympathize with me, whose eyes would respond to mine." » (Shelley 80). This desire for understanding and connection reflects the Monster’s heartfelt plea: “I am alone and miserable; the man does not want to associate with me” (Shelley 99). Both characters long for companionship, emphasizing their shared emotional turmoil. Additionally, their loneliness has devastating consequences. Victor's isolation causes him to neglect his creation, allowing the monster to develop resentment and seek revenge. Likewise, the Monster's isolation pushes him to commit heinous acts, because he believes that "evil now becomes [his] good" (Shelley 153). This parallel highlights the destructive power of loneliness and the tragic consequences it can cause. Another significant similarity between Victor and the Monster lies in their insatiable desires for knowledge and power. Victor's quest for scientific discovery consumes him, as he becomes obsessed with creating life. Likewise, the Monster craves knowledge and power, longing to be recognized and feared by humanity. Victor's obsession with knowledge is evident when he exclaims, "Curiosity, earnest inquiry to learn the hidden laws of nature...these were the aspirations" (Shelley 43). This incessant quest reflects the monster's desire for knowledge, as he seeks to "confront the complexities of life" (Shelley 118). Both characters are driven by their thirst for understanding and control, highlighting their shared ambitions. Furthermore, their desires for power lead to their downfall. Victor's creation of the Monster results in his own misery and destruction, while the Monster's desire for power drives him to seek revenge on his creator. This parallel emphasizes the dangerous consequences of uncontrolled ambition and the devastating effects it can have on individuals and society. Finally, both Victor and the Monster feel alienated from society due to their differences. Victor isolates himself from society due to his unconventional scientific activities, while the Monster is rejected by humanity due to his monstrous appearance. Victor's alienation is evident when he states, "I avoided my fellow men as if... I had been guilty of a crime." crime" (Shelley 75). This self-imposed isolation reflects the experience of the Monster, who is constantly rejected by others because of his physical appearance. Both characters face rejection from society, emphasizing their feeling Moreover, their alienation leads to a feeling of bitterness and resentment. Victor's isolation fuels his guilt and remorse., 2018.