Frankenstein Essay
Novak Period 7 Monsters are infamous for their treachery and striking fear into people’s hearts. Typically, the mention of a monster brings forth an image of a gruesome creature that is frightening at first glance. The type of creature that is what children fear lives in their closets, or a disgusting being that takes over the world in movies. Such description perfectly fits the main focus of Mary Shelley’s novel, Frankenstein. The creation of Victor Frankenstein is indubitably a monster on the surface. However, the creation is not the true monster of the story. A true monster withholds evil in their core, and carries out horrific acts without ignominy. Victor Frankenstein proves to be the monster of Mary Shelley’s novel. Although the creation bears the outward appearance of a monster, Victor Frankenstein earns the title of true monster by his selfish and appalling acts. The creation of Victor Frankenstein is described as being terrifying to look at, however his physical appearance is misleading. As the story progresses, it is evident that the creature is not the monster. The creation’s acts of violence are inevitable due to the environment and treatment he received as he developed in society. He begins his life wishing to find acceptance and companionship. The creation devotes a large portion of his life living right outside a cottage, spending his time watching a family and learning their way of life. However, on an attempt to befriend the humans, they chase him away in fear of his exterior. The creation makes several attempts to help people, including saving a girls life. In every case, despite his benevolence and longing for friends, the creation is driven away by the disgust his appearance rouses. Soon enough, the creation had no “relation or friend upon earth”(Shelley, 147). In addition to being despised and dispelled by his creator, the creation is left in extreme isolation. This unavoidably leads to his brutal acts of revenge. Any human being left in the creation’s position would have resulted in the same anguished crimes. The creation is not a monster at heart. In contrast, Victor Frankenstein had a promising life of happiness that twisted into a horrific tale due to his own monstrous deviations. Frankenstein indisputably earns the name of a monster. Unlike the creation, Frankenstein grew up in a near flawless environment. He mentions, “no youth could have passed more happily than mine”(Shelley, 67). Despite such warm parents and their plea to keep in touch, Frankenstein choses to live in isolation. He shuts off his parents and loved ones entirely as he partakes in strictly selfish aspirations. This reveals some monstrous qualities of Frankenstein as he causes great pain to those who care for him most. Additionally, Frankenstein
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