Similarity Between the Monster And Victor in Frankenstein
Similarity Between the Monster And Victor in Frankenstein
People often act similarly to others when put in the same situation. For some, being similar to others is a task, for others it just happens. Either way, everyone is similar to other people, mentally, physically, or otherwise. In Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein, Victor and the monster end up to be quite similar.
Both characters, Victor Frankenstein and the monster, had similar stages of development, disposition, and feeling. The wonder and awe that filled the young monster was parallel to that of Victor’s. Each of them had a great yearning for knowledge. Victor wished to become fully educated in science, and the monster wished to learn about human life. “[the monster] ardently longed to comprehend [the books]… but how was this possible when [the monster] did not even understand the sounds for which they stood as signs?” (p. 98) The monster wished to learn as much about the human race as he could, whom which he was so fascinated by. He read books, studied the habits of humans, listened to them interact with each other, and tried to copy them in every way possible. From doing this, he learned much about history, social interaction, ethics, and society. Victor felt the same about learning everything possible related to science. “From this day natural philosophy, and particularly chemistry… became nearly [Victor’s] sole occupation.” (p. 35) Victor was also completely enthralled and engrossed in his learning. A vast majority of his time was spent on his studies, “[Victor] proceeded and soon became so ardent and eager that the stars often disappeared in the light of morning whilst [Victor] was yet engaged in [his] laboratory.” (p. 35) While they both walked the earth wide-eyed and curious, they would soon walk with their head down in hatred, isolation, and remorse.
Victor Frankenstein’s hatred and isolation from society is much like the monster he created himself. Both of the characters started off the book in love with the world, “I was so guided by a silken cord that all seemed but one train of enjoyment to me.” (p. 19), proclaims Victor shortly after the start of the story. The monster, early in life, also had a love for everything around him. “Soon a gentle light stole over the heavens and gave me a sensation of pleasure.” (p. 88) the monster felt love for everything around him (even...