Is Frankenstein more human than some people in the real world? Whether justice manifests the unfair arbitrariness or underlies the indestructible moral pillar has troubled many distinguished minds. Marry Shelly’s novel Frankenstein traverses through the intricacies of this multifaceted concept depicting characters, some of which bow down against the righteous punishment whilst others get away with it. The novel’s plot unfolds around Victor Frankenstein’s demiurge obsession, making him covet the greatest might of creating life. Throughout her novel, Shelley constructs a narrative argument for the interconnectedness of justice, responsibility, and vengeance.
The irony of Frankenstein’s situation lies in his perception of irresponsibility. As a mad scientist, he believes in the righteousness of the way of unorthodox discovery and experimentation. Obsession with science leads Frankenstein to believe that running the soon-to-be disastrous experiment is the only responsible and just thing to do. This fact confirms the thesis of the essay and highlights such topics of Frankenstein story as justice and vengeance.
Frankenstein’s monster turned out to be a hideous fiend, wronged by men and abandoned by its creator. It is surprisingly articulate and thoughtful, often reflecting on the nature of life, benevolence, and vice. He believes that if he is alive, he has a right to be content and the capability to be virtuous: “I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, and I shall again be virtuous” (Shelley 90). Despite his yearning for goodness and happiness, the corrupting touch of humanity leads him to commit heinous, vengeful things, such as murdering Frankenstein’s friend and bride. The monster tries to justify his action, commenting on how unjustly Victor treated him:
“Listen to me, Frankenstein. You accuse me of murder; and yet you would, with a satisfied conscience, destroy your own creature. Oh, praise the eternal justice of man!” (Shelley 91)
The deaths and suffering caused by the monster could have been prevented had Victor Frankenstein exhibited responsibility and care for his creation. Alas, his responsibility reinforced vengeance and man’s eternal justice.
In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein explores responsibility, justice, and vengeance, among other philosophical ideas pertaining to human nature. The portrayal of Victor Frankenstein characterizes man’s inability to take responsibility for opportunist acts. When reading a novel, the reader can immerse themself in the world of studying human nature. Factors such as justice and responsibility, described in the essay, can provide significant food for thought about human behavior and priorities.
Work Cited
Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. AmazonClassics, 2017.