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Frankenstein
Published in 1818, Frankenstein, the full title of which is Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, is a novel with Gothic elements and Romantic ideals written by Mary Shelley. It warns against the unchecked pursuit of scientific knowledge. The story describes how Victor Frankenstein, a scientist, creates a powerful man-like being whose horrific appearance makes him a lonely outcast. When Frankenstein will not create a mate for the being, his creation decides to take revenge. In the book, the creature built by Frankenstein is never given a name.
1,241 Questions
How were the characters in Frankenstein selfish?
Victor is a main character in Frankenstein obsessed with knowledge. In Frankenstein, there are three characters that are very similar when it comes to trying to acquire knowledge; Victor (Frankenstein), Robert Walton and the monster all thirst for knowledge. These three characters will do anything to get their way; they all hurt people close to them and put themselves first. In the end, their obsession with knowledge results in a life a misery for all of them. The quest for knowledge of these three characters becomes very selfish, and is the downfall of all three of them.
Victor was a very selfish person who never focused on the life that he had or the people in his life. He never appreciated what he had; he was obsessed with knowledge and always wanted to learn more and to create something that was unheard of. Frankenstein states, "One man's life on death were but a small price to pay for the acquirement is the knowledge which I sought for the dominion I should acquire and transmit the elemental foes of our race."(Shelley) He was so focused on created his monster and gaining more knowledge. Frankenstein believed," Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend discovery, if I could banish disease from human frame and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death!" (Shelley) Frankenstein is focus on glory, he wants people to remember him because of the amazing creation he made; because of this he not only ruins his own life but he ruins many loved ones lives because of his selfish ways.
Before Victor creates his monster he is very joyful about the endeavor; he can't wait to create his creation and gain more knowledge. He will do anything for this to work and devotes all his time to creating his new species. He even says: " Life and death appeared to me ideal bounds, which I should first break though, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me. No father could claim the gratitude of his child so completely as I should deserve theirs." (Shelley) After Victor created his monster he was mortified by the monster, "For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart." (Shelley) Frankenstein didn't want anything to do with the monster he had created. Philip Allingham a literature professors at University of British Columbia in Vancouver stated the following about the monster being abandoned: "the fault is not the monster's but his creator's; the monsters is a sympathetic consciousness trapped in a repulsive form that even Victor, his mother-and-father, detest." (Allingham) Victor didn't take responsibility for his own creation. Victor describes the moment he see the monster "A flash of lightning illuminated the object and discovered its shape plainly to me; its gigantic stature, and the deformity of its aspect, more hideous than belongs to humanity, instantly informed me that it was the wretch, the filthy demon to whom he had given life."(Shelley) He thrived for this knowledge and wanted this creation so badly, but in the end he abandoned the monster because of the monster hideous looks. In the monster destroys his life and many of his love ones lives as well.
As for Walton, he too wanted to surpass others with finding a new uncharted territory in the North Pole that no one had discovered yet. In the begin, no matter how dangerous the voyage is, he wants to discover the uncharted territory so he puts his men on the ship and himself in danger. When Frankenstein meets Walton, he says " you seek for knowledge and wisdom, as I once did; and I ardently hope that the gratification of your wishes may not be a serpent to sting you, as mine has been." (Shelley) Frankenstein had already been through so much at that point but still was not going to give up even if it killed him. Victor tells Walton, "Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow." (Shelley) He was warning Walton of what he had learned from his misfortunes. Walton does finally stop and turn back when he and his crew are trapped between the ice and he learns of Victor's misery from trying to gain knowledge.
The monster was abandoned by his maker Frankenstein and therefore had to learn and manage on his own. He too wanted to learn and thirst for knowledge. When living by the De Lacey's farm he taught himself how to speak and read from listening to the farmer and his son and daughter. He gained human emotions because of the knowledge he learned and he wanted to be with people and have someone love him. When the family rejected him because of his hideous looks, he wanted revenge on his maker for making him this way. The monster then spoke with Frankenstein saying, "Shall each man," cried he, "find a wife for his bosom, and each beast have his mate, and I be alone? I had feelings of affection, and they were requited by detestation and scorn. Man! You may hate, but beware! Your hours will pass in dread and misery, and soon the bolt will fall which must ravish from you your happiness forever. Are you to be happy while I grovel in the intensity of my wretchedness? You can blast my other passions, but revenge remains -- revenge, henceforth dearer than light or food! I may die, but first you, my tyrant and tormentor, shall curse the sun that gazes on your misery. Beware, for I am fearless and therefore powerful. I will watch with the wiliness of a snake, that I may sting with its venom. Man, you shall repent of the injuries you inflict." (Shelley) The monster didn't want to be alone in the world anymore and knew only something of his same species would accept him, he would do anything for this love. The monster threatens Victor that is he doesn't do what he wants he will make his life more miserable then it already is and he would lose everything he has left. When the monster learned all these things about the world and had these emotions it made him more human which in the end destroyed him because he had learned too much.
Frankenstein, Walton and the monster very different characters in the book but
all very alike. They all wanted to gain this knowledge and that wasn't a bad
thing but they wanted these things so badly they would do anything for it. They
were all very selfish in how they went about things, and hurt so many people
because of their actions. In the end they are all miserable and the knowledge
they gain is the destruction of all of them.
Is there secrecy in Mary Shelley?
Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein" does explore themes of secrecy and hidden truths, particularly in the way Victor Frankenstein keeps his experiments and the creation of the monster a secret from society. The novel highlights the dangers that can arise from keeping important information concealed.
In Frankenstein what is ironic about the creature's physical appearance?
In "Frankenstein," the creature's physical appearance is ironic because, despite being crafted from human parts and possessing a human intellect and emotions, he is grotesque and repulsive to those who see him. This outward ugliness leads to immediate rejection and fear, overshadowing his capacity for love and compassion. The irony lies in the contrast between his inner humanity and the horrifying exterior that prevents him from forming meaningful connections with others. Ultimately, his appearance becomes a barrier to acceptance, highlighting the theme of superficial judgment.
It seems like your question is incomplete. If you're asking about the cost of a specific edition of "Frankenstein" or its adaptations, prices can vary widely depending on the format (e.g., paperback, hardcover, or digital). Typically, a paperback edition can range from $10 to $20, while special editions or collectibles may cost more. If you meant something else, please clarify!
How is the opening of chapter 16 in Frankenstein considered a lament?
The opening of chapter 16 in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" reflects a lament through the Creature’s expression of profound sorrow and despair over his isolation and rejection by society. He mourns the loss of potential companionship and love, feeling deeply misunderstood and abandoned. This lament underscores his transformation from a being seeking acceptance into one consumed by bitterness and vengeance, highlighting the tragic consequences of alienation. The tone conveys a deep sense of longing for connection, emphasizing the emotional turmoil that drives his subsequent actions.
Where are the delaceys from in Frankenstein?
The De Lacey family in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" is from Germany. They are living in exile in a small cottage in the woods of Switzerland after fleeing their homeland due to political reasons. The family consists of the blind father, De Lacey, and his children, Felix and Agatha, who support each other through their hardships. Their background and experiences highlight themes of social injustice and the impact of isolation in the novel.
Who is Robert Walton and why is he writing to his sister?
He is lonely and is very close with his sister. Walton's story is very similar to that of the Rime of the Ancient Mariner, in that it is likely that he has also had some kind of falling out with his crew. The letters are also Mary Shelley's way of opening and closing the story in a way that makes sense.
It is theorized that Robert Walton was also beginning to find himself driven a little bit mad, and thus his perspective of the story is possibly a little bit warped. Writing to his sister was likely a way to prevent his psyche from degenerating any more quickly.
How many people did the monster strangle in the novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley?
The monster strangled two people in the novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. The first was Victor Frankenstein's younger brother William, and the second was his best friend Henry Clerval.
What best shows that the monster has gained his humanity by the end of Frankenstein?
He wishes for forgiveness from Frankenstein.
Where is victor Frankenstein's home?
Victor Frankenstein's home is located in Geneva, Switzerland. He was born and raised there, in a wealthy family that had a strong influence on his upbringing and education. The picturesque setting of Geneva contrasts sharply with the dark themes of his experiments and the ensuing consequences of his actions in Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein."
Where can you get the answers to Frankenstein study guide?
You can find answers to the Frankenstein study guide in various places, including educational websites like SparkNotes and Shmoop, which provide summaries and analyses. Additionally, library resources and academic journals often have in-depth discussions and interpretations. Joining online forums or literature discussion groups can also be helpful for collaborative learning and insights. Finally, consulting your instructor or classmates can provide valuable perspectives.
What was the reaction of the villagers the creature encountered in Frankenstein?
In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," the villagers react with fear and hostility to the creature. When they see him, they are horrified by his grotesque appearance and often attack him with violence. The creature experiences rejection and isolation, as the villagers' immediate instinct is to view him as a monster rather than a sentient being seeking connection. This treatment deepens his despair and fuels his desire for revenge against his creator, Victor Frankenstein.
What was the main lesson Mary Shelley wanted Victor Frankenstein to learn in Frankenstein?
Mary Shelley wanted Victor Frankenstein to learn the consequences of playing god and interfering with the natural order of life. She intended to caution against the dangers of scientific ambition without ethical considerations. Ultimately, Victor's downfall demonstrates the importance of responsibility and humility in the pursuit of knowledge.
How might Frankenstein's monster be representative of the machines or inventions?
Frankenstein's monster symbolizes the potential dangers and ethical dilemmas associated with unchecked technological advancement and creation. Just as machines and inventions can be powerful tools for progress, they can also lead to unintended consequences when not handled responsibly. The monster embodies humanity's fear of what can arise when we play God, reflecting concerns over losing control over our creations. Ultimately, it serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities that come with innovation.
Where did Frankenstein go to seek relief after the trial and its conclusion?
Victor Frankenstein was deeply in grief over the death of Justine. He finally found peace in Chamounix, a place he had enjoyed during his childhood.
What does Robert Walton tell his sister is the one want which I have never yet been able to satisfy?
In "Frankenstein," Robert Walton tells his sister that the one want he has never been able to satisfy is a desire for companionship. He expresses a deep longing for a friend who shares his ambitions and passions, highlighting his isolation despite his adventurous pursuits. This unfulfilled need for connection drives him to seek out Victor Frankenstein, whom he views as a potential confidant and ally.
Did Mary Shelley wife of the poet write Dracula or Frankenstein?
Yes, Mary wrote a number of novels, travelogues, short stories and gift books. For a complete list of her accomplishments see wikipedia (Mary Shelley)
What is the main event in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley?
The main event in "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley revolves around Victor Frankenstein's creation of a sentient creature from assembled body parts, which he ultimately rejects in horror. This act sets off a tragic chain of events, leading to the creature's loneliness and desperation for companionship, as well as a series of vengeful confrontations between the creator and his creation. The novel explores themes of ambition, isolation, and the consequences of playing god, culminating in deep moral and ethical questions about responsibility and humanity.
In the original novel and in the first films, it was Fritz. Only in Son of Frankenstein was their a character named Ygor, and it was in Young Frankenstein that the spelling Igor (Eye-gor) came into being.
