frankenstein

Through the characterization of Frankenstein and his creation, Mary Shelley exposes the cruelty of humans and their ultimate desire for acceptance. Victor Frankenstein alienates himself from society, capitalizing on his own suffering misery, which ultimately keeps him from leading a normal life. His creation is just another version of himself; sad, without companionship and facing rejection from regular society. As the story progresses, Frankenstein seems to get more and more like the monster he created, feeling vengeful and hateful towards the people that will not acknowledge him. The monster puts this feeling into perspective, saying, "There was non among the myriads of men that existed who would pity or assist me; and should I feel kindness towards my enemies? No: from that moment I declared everlasting war against the species, and, more than all, against him who had formed me and sent me forth to this insupportable misery." It was only because society rejected him and were disgusted by him did the monster seek revenge. This shows a major weakness in humans, as we allow others to deduce us to hateful and meaningless acts. The monster only wanted to be a part of the society and instead faced criticism and alienation. This is a dark reflection on man's treatment of outsiders, and how vengeance can easily stem from it. Shelley uses Frankenstein and his creation to illustrate the faults of humans, and the consequences of those actions.