The Role Of Suffering In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Regarding the question, “Do you think that this [Victor’s tragic fate] is the true cause of his suffering? Yes, the answer to question is very much so true. His suffering is due to the fact that he relentlessly searched for knowledge. He worked night and day to the point of sickness for his cause. His quote even shows how dedicated he is to fulfilling his scientific goal. Victor says, “One man’s life or death were but a small price to pay for the acquirement of knowledge which I sought, for the dominion I should acquire and transmit over the elemental foes of our race.” (Letter 4.21) The novel presents knowledge as dangerous and destructive several ways. First, by showing the lengths researchers will go to acquire such knowledge as explained in the previous paragraphs and also, through the tragic fate of Victor’s life. Victor Frankenstein’s obsession with science began early on. He began school as a naïve, excited undergraduate. He soon became obsessed with the subject of brining the dead to life and quickly began his work. His downfall
He did not sit down and think over what might happen if he successfully created the creature. He continually blames fate instead of taking responsibility for the deed he did on his own. He says, ““I thank you,” he replied, “for your sympathy, but it is useless; my fate is nearly fulfilled. I wait but for one event, and then I shall repose in peace.” (Letter 4.29) It almost seems as if Victor believed this was supposed to be his fate all along, that he was destined to create a vicious creature. Victor attributes his tragic fate to his relentless search for knowledge. It is agreed that this is his true cause for his suffering. He went to such great lengths to acquire knowledge and to become a great researcher that in the end it killed him; which he quoted was just “… but a small price to