Frankenstein: Analyzing the Monster and Victor's Parallels

The Monster's Eloquence and Cinematic Portrayals

Does the monster’s eloquence and persuasiveness make it easier for the reader to sympathize with him? Why do you think most film versions of the story present the monster as mute or inarticulate?

From my point of view, the monster seems to be very smart, as he learns how to speak and read in his attempt to gain Victor's attention by watching a family of peasants. I think he is portrayed as mute in most films because of how he is abandoned and rejected—not only by Victor but also by society—never having the chance to communicate with anyone, as he is rejected due to his grotesque appearance.

Parallels Between Victor and the Monster

Trace the similarities between Victor and the monster. Consider their respective relationships with nature, desires for family, and any other important parallels you find. Do Victor and the monster become more similar as the novel progresses? How does their relationship with each other develop?

• Family: Both the monster and Victor desire a female companion. Victor wants Elizabeth, and the monster wants a female creature so as not to be alone anymore. Both lose their companions, and this event triggers a change in their feelings and behavior.
• Nature: Both characters strive to gain as much knowledge as they can and look to nature when they are suffering; a clear example is Victor retreating to the mountains.

The Dangers of Ambition and Knowledge

Victor attributes his tragic fate to his relentless search for knowledge. Do you think that this is the true cause of his suffering? In what ways does the novel present knowledge as dangerous and destructive?

Victor's suffering is not just caused by his search for knowledge regarding the secret of life, but also by the fear of the knowledge he now possesses and the monster's revenge. I believe the true cause of his suffering is neither the death of his loved ones nor the creation of the monster itself. Rather, his own ambition to know something that only God can provide led him to be blind to his surroundings. When he finally realizes what he has done, he is consumed by guilt.