Frankenstein
The novel, Frankenstein, was written by Mary Shelley in the early 1800’s. Her story is about a man named Victor Frankenstein whom, in his quest for knowledge and greatness, created a hideous monster that society would never be able to accept. The monster was abandoned and faced with great prejudice when all he wanted was companionship. The monster took revenge on Victor by ruining all that was dear to him. A main theme that is in the novel is the impact of knowledge, whether good or bad, on individuals. This theme is evident through the actions of the characters of Victor Frankenstein, the monster, and Robert Walton.
Victor Frankenstein was obsessed with the prospect of learning and understanding remote ideas. His main goal in life was to be remembered for achieving something no one ever had. Victor’s passion for knowledge began at an early age: "Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember." (pg ) During Victor’s obsessive pursuit of knowledge, he lost himself. He was so focused on accomplishing his goal he did not realize the seriousness of what he was creating.
The monster that Frankenstein created was the true victim in the novel. He was abandoned because of his appearance, even by his creator. He was an optimist originally but then his experiences changed his outlook on everything.
Robert Walton wanted to be written about in the history books just as Victor had wanted. He sought to surpass all and be the first person to reach the North Pole. He was reckless in his ambition to attain his goal. His ship was constantly being trapped between giant ice sheets during which he put his crew in immense danger by not turning back. Walton was taught a valuable lesson when victor implored him to “Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier...