Frankenstein
Mary Shelley
Pages 61-81
Frankenstein's second encounter with the creature is a complete reversal compared to their first meeting. Whereas on their first interaction the beast "muttered some inarticulate sounds," this second meeting in the mountains presents the creature with a scholarly eloquence (Shelley, 35).
This dynamic evolution of the creation persuades Frankenstein to listen to the creature's tale. "I felt what the duties of a creator towards his creature were, and that I ought to render him happy before I complained of his wickedness," (Shelley, 70). Recognizing this responsibility, however, also presents a new aspect to the characterization of Frankenstein. The monster uses biblical references to compare Victor Frankenstein to God, the ultimate creator. His allusions to "Adam" and the "fallen angel" describe his plight (Shelley, 69). He was supposed to be the joy of his creator's heart, yet he is viewed as the antithesis. The creature simply wants to understand the reasoning behind Frankenstein's rejection of him and also to share his story with his creator in hopes of some sort of empathy.
When the creature begins his narrative detailing his travels and self-taught education (yes, Shelley implements yet another narrator into the story), the audience is given a detailed description as to how the creature has become this dynamic character. Through his steady observance of human life, he has been able to become, in a psychological sense, a fully functioning person. However, his physical appearance still segregates him from the rest of society. I feel as though the creature will continue to develop, and his development will either bring him closer or further separate him from that which is his greatest desire: companionship.
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