The novel Frankenstein, or, The Modern Prometheus, written by Mary Shelley, touches upon the topic of the power of scientific thought, challenging nature. The novel includes many symbolic elements throughout the narration, helping to understand the implicit ideas of the author. One of such symbols is a fire which is addressed in particular plot events and through the title of the novel. The fire symbolizes the ambivalent nature of the creation: one the one hand, it grants rebirth and creates life, one the other mercilessly punishes people.
The fire in the novel is the ultimate power regulating the creation process. The monster which Victor creates is revived thanks to the spark (Shelley, 1818). However, Victor realizes that this creature is a dangerous monster. This mistake causes the burning of the cottage of Felix and Agatha (Shelley, 1818). Thus, the anger of the creature, unable to understand the aim of his existence, is represented through the destructive force of fire. This symbol’s duality can also be considered from the perspective of the monster. The creature hates fire due to its duplicitous nature. Seeking a source of warmth, the monster stumbles upon the fire. Without realizing the danger, he touches the fire and burns his hand (Shelley, 1818). This moment characterizes the nature of human relationships and life in general. Philosophically treating, everything that seems attractive one day can hurt people. This is the logic of creation and human life with which the monster cannot accept.
Therefore, the fire symbol is used by the author of the novel to show that life and creation always include warmth and pain. These two aspects make life valuable due to experiencing happiness and despair. The warmth of the fire can help people to live happily. However, they are hurt when they cross over the line trying to understand something they are not supposed to. In this meaning, the fire philosophically parallels the creation process.
Reference
Shelley, M. (1818). Frankenstein; or, the modern Prometheus. Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones.