Lecture on Frankenstein: Analysis of Main Characters

This lecture focuses on an in-depth analysis of the two main characters from Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein": Victor Frankenstein and the creature (monster). The lecture aims to provide insights into their complex characters and examine various perspectives.

Victor Frankenstein

Overview

• Victor is portrayed as arrogant and judgmental.
• His tendency to judge based on appearances is highlighted.
• Displays self-absorption and a lack of responsibility.

Key Examples

• Judgmental Nature: Dismissive attitude towards Monsieur Krempe based on physical appearances and voice.
• Self-Absorption: Consistently views himself as a victim despite causing others harm.
• Failure to Accept Responsibility: Repeatedly justifies his actions without acknowledging their negative consequences.

Notable Incidents

• Ingolstadt Arrival: His prejudice against Professor Krempe.
• Prison Nurse Incident: Reacts with "loathing" to her harsh speech, revealing classist attitudes.
• Marriage to Elizabeth: Sees it as a source of his own happiness, neglecting Elizabeth's perspective.
• Refusal to Create a Mate for the Creature: Justifies it by claiming duties to humanity, ignoring initial responsibility to his creation.

Final Reflection

• Victor’s dying words emphasize his failure to learn from experiences and his persistent denial of responsibility.

The Creature (Monster)

Overview

• Initially portrayed as a victim of circumstances and neglect.
• Demonstrates intelligence and sensitivity.
• Experiences societal rejection based on appearance.

Key Points

• Initial Innocence: Newborn-like vulnerability and attempts to bond with Victor.
• Self-Education and Sensitivity: Learns about fire, nature, and language independently.
• Civilized Reasoning: Often more logical and reasonable than Victor, particularly during their encounter in the Alps.

Notable Incidents

• Description by Walton: Emphasizes the creature's terrifying appearance.
• First Encounter with Victor: Attempts to engage with Victor met with horror.
• Admiration for Nature: Displays appreciation for beauty and music, contrasting Victor’s views.

Ambivalence and Tragedy

• Shelley's portrayal suggests the creature's potential for good, overshadowed by Victor's neglect.
• Their tangled relationship resembles a Shakespearean tragedy, suggesting the avoidability of the ensuing chaos.

Themes and Reflections

• Arrogance and Responsibility: Victor's unchecked egotism and its consequences.
• Neglect and Isolation: Impact of Victor's actions on the creature's transformation.
• Nature vs. Nurture: The creature’s development without guidance.

The lecture concludes by reflecting on Shelley's intentions to blur moral distinctions, emphasizing the tragic waste resulting from Victor's flawed character.

This summary encapsulates the critical analysis of Victor Frankenstein and the creature, exploring both their complexities and the moral questions posed by the novel.