The Creature in Mary Shelley's
Frankenstein is far more than a simple monster; he is a complex, tragic figure whose existence and experiences serve as a powerful lens through which Shelley explores profound themes of creation, isolation, societal prejudice, and the very nature of humanity.
Role in the Narrative
The Creature is the central catalyst for the novel's tragic events. Victor
Frankenstein's creation sets in motion a chain of suffering that ultimately destroys both creator and creation.
The Creature serves as a counterpoint to Victor, highlighting the consequences of unchecked ambition and the abandonment of responsibility.
The Creature's narrative, told in his own words, forms a significant portion of the novel. This allows readers to understand his perspective, his evolving consciousness, and his growing resentment. His journey from an innocent being to a vengeful figure is the core of the novel's plot.
From the moment of his animation, Victor pursues the Creature, who is horrified by his creation. This pursuit, both literal and metaphorical, drives much of the action and creates a sense of escalating tension.
As the Creature suffers rejection and cruelty, he seeks revenge against Victor, ultimately destroying his family and shattering his life. This act of retribution underscores the novel's exploration of the consequences of neglecting one's creations.
Symbolic Significance
The Creature is a powerful symbol of several key themes.
The Abandoned Child: Victor's immediate abandonment of the creature symbolizes the profound impact of parental rejection. The creature yearns for love and acceptance but is met with fear and disgust, mirroring the experiences of marginalized individuals.
The Other:
The Creature represents the "other," the outsider who is rejected by society due to his physical appearance and perceived difference. His experiences highlight the dangers of prejudice and the dehumanization of those who do not conform.
The Mirror to Humanity:
The Creature's capacity for great love and terrible vengeance reflects human nature's inherent duality. He is a mirror to humanity, revealing both its potential for good and its capacity for evil.
The Consequences of Unchecked Ambition:
The Creature's existence is a direct consequence of Victor's hubris. He embodies the dangers of scientific ambition without ethical consideration.
The Nature vs Nurture:
The Creature's journey raises questions about whether human behavior is determined by nature or nurture. Born innocent, he is corrupted by the cruelty he experiences, suggesting that the environment plays a crucial role in shaping character. In many ways, the creature follows the arc of a romantic hero, having great emotion and a need for experience. However, because of the rejection from society and his creator, he is pushed into the role of a tragic villain.
Broader Implications
The Creature's story has resonated with readers for centuries, raising timeless questions.
The Responsibility of the Creator: Shelley's novel explores the ethical obligations of creators, whether they are scientists, artists, or parents. Victor's abandonment of his creation serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of neglecting one's responsibilities.
The Nature of Humanity:
The Creature's intelligence, sensitivity, and capacity for both love and hate challenge conventional notions of what it means to be human. He forces readers to confront their prejudices and to consider the humanity of those who are different.
The Dangers of Isolation:
The Creature's isolation and loneliness are central to his suffering. His experiences highlight the fundamental human need for connection and belonging.
Social Injustice:
The Creature's rejection by society mirrors the experiences of marginalized groups who are ostracized and dehumanized due to their differences. Shelley's novel serves as a powerful critique of social injustice and the destructive power of prejudice.
The Limits of Science: Victor's pursuit of scientific knowledge without ethical consideration leads to catastrophic consequences.
The Creature's existence serves as a warning about the potential dangers of unchecked scientific ambition.
The search for identity: The creature's journey is a quest to understand who he is and where he fits into the world. He reads books and learns language in an attempt to understand himself. This quest for identity is a core part of the human experience. The emotional pain felt by the creature due to his rejection by his creator and society is a major theme throughout the book. This pain is what drives him to vengeance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Creature in
Frankenstein is a complex and multifaceted character whose existence raises profound questions about humanity, responsibility, and the nature of good and evil. He is a tragic figure whose suffering serves as a powerful critique of societal prejudice and the dangers of unchecked ambition. His story continues to resonate with readers today, reminding us of the importance of compassion, empathy, and the ethical considerations that must guide our actions.