Discussion on the monstrosity and humanity in Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein
"Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley explores the theme of monstrosity through the creature's physical
appearance and society's rejection. However, it also delves into the humanity within the creature, as it
seeks companionship and understanding. The novel raises questions about who the true monster
is—Frankenstein for creating life without responsibility or society for its harsh judgment. This duality
highlights the complexity of human nature and challenges conventional notions of good and evil.
Firstly , we need to focus on the themes of monstrosity and humanity in "Frankenstein."
Monstrosity:
The theme of monstrosity in "Frankenstein" is multifaceted, primarily embodied by Victor Frankenstein's
creation—the creature. Initially, the creature is physically monstrous, constructed from various body
parts and brought to life through Victor's ambitious and unorthodox scientific experiments. Shelley uses
vivid descriptions to emphasise the grotesque nature of the creature, contributing to its perceived
monstrosity.
However, as the narrative progresses, it becomes evident that the true monstrosity lies not in the
creature's appearance but in the societal and personal rejection it faces. Victor's abandonment of his
creation leads to the creature's isolation, and its interactions with society result in fear and violence. The
creature's longing for acceptance and companionship contrasts sharply with the harsh judgment it
encounters, highlighting the theme of societal-induced monstrosity.
Humanity:
Paradoxically, the creature, despite its physical appearance, exhibits more humane qualities than some
of the human characters in the novel. It experiences emotions such as loneliness, sorrow, and desire for
connection. The creature's ability to learn language, literature, and ethics further emphasises its
humanity. Shelley challenges traditional notions of humanity by portraying the creature as a complex
being capable of intellectual and emotional development.
Additionally, Victor's actions raise questions about the humanity of the creator. His relentless pursuit of
scientific knowledge without considering the consequences and his abandonment of the creature reveal
a lack of empathy and responsibility. The novel explores the ethical implications of scientific
advancement and the boundaries of human responsibility, inviting readers to reflect on what it truly
means to be human.
The duality extends beyond the creature to Victor himself. His internal struggles with guilt and remorse
highlight the moral complexities of his actions. The novel prompts readers to consider the consequences
of unchecked ambition and the ethical responsibilities associated with scientific discovery.
"Frankenstein" intricately weaves the themes of monstrosity and humanity, challenging readers to
reevaluate their understanding of these concepts. The creature, initially perceived as a monster, serves
as a reflection of societal prejudices and raises profound questions about empathy, responsibility, and
the essence of humanity. The novel's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of ethical dilemmas and
the consequences of playing with the boundaries of life and death.
Now, let's delve deeper into the themes of monstrosity and humanity in "Frankenstein."
Monstrosity
1. Firstly, the depiction of physical monstrosity
Mary Shelley uses vivid and visceral descriptions to convey the physical monstrosity of Victor
Frankenstein's creation. The amalgamation of different body parts, the stitching, and the use of decaying
materials contribute to a grotesque and unsettling image. This portrayal aligns with societal expectations
of appearance, where deviation from the norm is deemed monstrous.
2.the Societal Rejection he is subjected to:
The creature's monstrosity is exacerbated by the rejection it faces from society. When the creature
attempts to interact with humans, it is met with fear and hostility, reinforcing the idea that societal
judgment often shapes perceptions of monstrosity. This rejection becomes a catalyst for the creature's
descent into violence and despair.
3.lastly, Intellectual and Emotional Monstrosity:
Beyond physical attributes, the creature's intellectual and emotional experiences challenge the
conventional understanding of monstrosity. Its ability to learn, read, and articulate complex thoughts
showcases a more nuanced and human side. This intellectual capacity, however, is overshadowed by the
creature's isolation, loneliness, and the moral struggles it faces, contributing to a different dimension of
monstrosity.
Humanity:
1. firstly, Emotional Complexity:
Shelley intricately crafts the creature's emotional journey, revealing a depth of feeling that humanises
it. The creature experiences profound loneliness, seeks companionship, and displays genuine sorrow. Its
emotional complexity challenges the simplistic notion that physical appearance is the sole determinant
of humanity.
2.Intellectual Development
The creature's pursuit of knowledge mirrors the human thirst for understanding and growth. Its
self-education, particularly through reading classic literature, emphasises the importance of intellectual
pursuits in defining humanity. The creature's yearning for knowledge and enlightenment parallels human
aspirations, blurring the boundaries between creator and creation.
3. Moral Reflection
Victor Frankenstein's actions and decisions offer another lens through which to examine humanity. His
relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge, without considering the moral implications, raises questions
about the ethical responsibilities tied to human endeavours. Victor's lack of empathy and accountability
challenges traditional notions of humane behaviour.
Another spectrum it can be divided into are Duality and Morality:
1. Ambiguity of Morality
"Frankenstein" presents a morally ambiguous landscape. The creature, despite its acts of violence,
elicits sympathy as a victim of circumstance. Victor, the creator, grapples with guilt and remorse, blurring
the lines between right and wrong. This moral ambiguity invites readers to question societal norms and
ponder the consequences of rigid moral judgments.
2. Responsibility and Consequence:
The novel underscores the theme of humanity by exploring the consequences of irresponsible actions.
Victor's abandonment of the creature and his failure to take responsibility for his creation contribute to
the tragic outcomes. This theme resonates in contemporary discussions surrounding scientific
advancements and the ethical considerations tied to groundbreaking discoveries.
3. Empathy and Understanding:
"Frankenstein" challenges readers to cultivate empathy and understanding for characters that defy
conventional norms. By doing so, Shelley encourages a deeper exploration of what it means to be
human. The narrative prompts readers to reflect on their own biases and prejudices, fostering a more
nuanced perspective on the complexities of humanity
Despite being miserably treated by the society around it, Frankenstein often rose above the
moments without showing anger or despair. He often chose to look on the bright side of life such
as enjoying the "blessed sun" as he mentions it (Clemit, pg 162). After all the constant rejection,
one would easily assume that Frankenstein would be overwhelmed by unpleasant feelings and
start doing terrible things, but his humanity is depicted again when one day while hiding in the
woods, he rescued a little girl from drowning and the only gratification was the community
shooting at him. In his desire to find a companion, Frankenstein requests Victor to create him a
companion that would ease his loneliness.
Conclusion
This essay has clearly argued that the creature, Frankenstein, is not the monster he is
assumed to be, but rather it is Victor and the society that are monsters in the story. Despite the
fact that Victor has often been perceived by his family and friends as an individual who is
kind and loving in nature, he in his real nature an empty human without empathy and who is
self-centred. Victor is a reckless scientist who is driven by passion of satisfying no one but
himself and this is why he ran away from his family, instead of thinking about what he was
creating, he was consumed by the need to be famous, when Justin is accused of murder he
stays silent instead of being responsible and when Frankenstein threatens him on his wedding
day he only thinks about protecting himself and not the bride. Frankenstein is only a victim of
circumstances and is seen to be humane than any human he encountered in his life. His life is
filled rejection, and even his creator does not take pride in him as he describes him as an
animal instead of looking at him as a human. In his struggles to be part of the high society, it
is notable that humans are the monsters and every evil thing originates from our doings and
preconceived ideas. Frankenstein criminal career is as a result of the injustice he faced. This is
to mean that he only killed because everyday he met his demice in the presence of human kind
and this might have convinced him in a manner that it is in a human nature to be ruthless.
Though he is judged for his deformities, it is victor who is the real monster in the story because
of his hostility towards the creature, his abandonment, his strange ways of living such as
marrying his own step sister and creating a life to satisfy his thirst and alchemy and finally finally
his selfishness. The false prescription that the society holds towards what a monster is, it is
often prejudice. A monster cannot be judged by his looks but rather his deeds.