Character Analysis in “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” first published in 1818, is a seminal work in the science fiction and Gothic horror genres. The novel explores themes of creation, ambition, and the consequences of playing God through the complex relationship between Victor Frankenstein and his creation, often referred to as the Monster. This detailed character analysis delves into the main characters of the novel, examining their motivations, development, and the thematic implications of their actions.
Victor Frankenstein
Ambition and Hubris: Victor Frankenstein, the protagonist of the novel, is a brilliant but hubristic scientist driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and glory. His ambition leads him to push the boundaries of natural science, culminating in the creation of the Monster. Victor’s desire to surpass the limitations of human capability and achieve god-like powers of creation reflects the Romantic era’s fascination with the sublime and the potential dangers of unchecked ambition.
Creation and Responsibility: Victor’s creation of the Monster marks the pivotal event of the novel. His initial reaction to the success of his experiment is one of horror and disgust, leading him to abandon his creation. This act of abandonment underscores a central theme of the novel: the ethical responsibility that comes with scientific advancement. Victor’s refusal to take responsibility for his creation sets off a chain of tragic events, highlighting the consequences of neglect and the moral obligations of a creator towards their creation.
Guilt and Consequences: As the novel progresses, Victor is haunted by guilt and remorse for the havoc wrought by the Monster. The deaths of his loved ones, including his brother William, his friend Henry Clerval, and his wife Elizabeth, weigh heavily on him. Victor’s torment and pursuit of the Monster across Europe symbolize his internal struggle and the relentless pursuit of atonement. Ultimately, Victor’s inability to prevent the Monster’s destruction and his own demise illustrate the destructive power of unchecked ambition and the inescapable consequences of one’s actions.
The Monster
Creation and Rejection: The Monster, Victor’s creation, is brought to life through an unnamed scientific process. Despite his grotesque appearance, the Monster initially possesses a childlike innocence and a desire for companionship and acceptance. Victor’s immediate rejection and abandonment leave the Monster isolated and vulnerable, setting the stage for his transformation into a vengeful being.
Quest for Identity and Belonging: The Monster’s journey is marked by a quest for identity and belonging. His experiences with humanity, characterized by fear, rejection, and violence, shape his understanding of himself and the world. The Monster’s self-education through reading texts like “Paradise Lost” and “The Sorrows of Werter” provides him with a philosophical framework but also deepens his sense of alienation and suffering. His plea for a companion from Victor reflects his longing for connection and his recognition of his own monstrosity.
Vengeance and Tragedy: The Monster’s transformation from a figure of sympathy to one of vengeance is a central arc in the novel. His acts of violence, including the murders of William, Justine (indirectly through framing), Clerval, and Elizabeth, are driven by a desire to make Victor suffer as he has suffered. The Monster’s evolution underscores themes of injustice, the impact of societal rejection, and the duality of human nature. In the end, the Monster’s regret and intention to end his own life suggest a complex character driven by a profound sense of loss and despair.
Robert Walton
Narrator and Foil: Robert Walton, an Arctic explorer, frames the narrative of “Frankenstein” through his letters to his sister, Margaret. Walton’s ambition and desire for discovery parallel Victor’s, making him a narrative foil. His encounter with Victor and the Monster serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the potential dangers of obsessive ambition. Walton’s decision to abandon his own quest for glory in favor of the safety of his crew contrasts with Victor’s relentless pursuit, emphasizing the importance of tempering ambition with responsibility and compassion.
Elizabeth Lavenza
Embodiment of Virtue: Elizabeth Lavenza, Victor’s adopted sister and fiancée, represents the ideal of virtue and domestic tranquility. Her character is defined by her kindness, beauty, and unwavering loyalty to Victor. Elizabeth’s role in the novel highlights the gender dynamics and expectations of the time, emphasizing the contrast between the private, domestic sphere and the public, scientific realm. Her tragic death on her wedding night symbolizes the ultimate consequence of Victor’s hubris and the destruction of his personal happiness by his scientific pursuits.
Henry Clerval
Contrast and Friendship: Henry Clerval, Victor’s childhood friend, serves as a foil to Victor’s character. Clerval’s interests lie in the humanities, art, and exploration, contrasting with Victor’s obsession with scientific achievement. Clerval’s supportive and compassionate nature provides a stark contrast to Victor’s isolation and moral ambiguity. His murder by the Monster underscores the profound impact of Victor’s actions on those around him and the loss of innocence and beauty in the face of unchecked ambition.
Themes and Literary Significance
Ambition and Consequences: The novel’s exploration of ambition and its consequences is embodied in the characters of Victor and Walton. Victor’s tragic arc serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of overreaching and the ethical responsibilities of scientific endeavor. Walton’s decision to heed Victor’s warning highlights the potential for redemption and the importance of tempering ambition with ethical considerations.
Creation and Responsibility: The relationship between Victor and the Monster underscores the theme of creation and responsibility. Victor’s abandonment of his creation and the Monster’s subsequent quest for vengeance illustrate the moral and ethical implications of creation without accountability. The novel raises questions about the limits of scientific exploration and the responsibilities of creators towards their creations.
Isolation and Alienation: Isolation and alienation are central themes in the novel, affecting both Victor and the Monster. Victor’s obsessive pursuit of scientific knowledge leads to his emotional and social isolation, while the Monster’s physical appearance and societal rejection drive him to violence and vengeance. The novel critiques the consequences of isolation and the human need for companionship and acceptance.
Nature vs. Nurture: The Monster’s development and actions raise the question of nature versus nurture. Despite his initial innocence, the Monster’s experiences with rejection and violence shape his transformation into a vengeful being. The novel suggests that the environment and societal treatment play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s character and behavior.
Literary Style and Structure: Shelley’s use of a framed narrative structure, with Walton’s letters enclosing Victor’s story and the Monster’s account, adds layers of perspective and complexity to the novel. The Gothic elements, including the bleak and sublime landscapes, the themes of horror and decay, and the focus on intense emotions, contribute to the novel’s enduring impact and its place in the Gothic literary tradition.
Conclusion
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley remains a timeless exploration of ambition, creation, and the consequences of playing God. Through the detailed character analysis of Victor Frankenstein, the Monster, Robert Walton, Elizabeth Lavenza, and Henry Clerval, the novel delves into themes of responsibility, isolation, and the duality of human nature. Shelley’s masterful storytelling and profound insights continue to resonate with readers, making “Frankenstein” a cornerstone of Gothic and science fiction literature.