Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a profound exploration of human emotions, particularly the theme of abandonment. The novel delves into the consequences of neglect and rejection through the lives of its characters, most notably Victor Frankenstein and his creature. This essay will examine significant quotations that illustrate how abandonment shapes their experiences and ultimately leads to tragic outcomes.
The Weight of Creation and Responsibility
At the heart of “Frankenstein” lies Victor’s ambition to create life. However, once he successfully animates his creature, he is horrified by what he has done. He describes his feelings with a powerful quote: “I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body… but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished.” This moment encapsulates Victor’s abandonment—not just of his creature but also of his own responsibilities as its creator. His immediate repulsion leads him to abandon not only the physical being he brought to life but also any sense of duty towards it. This act sets off a chain reaction that results in devastation for both characters.
The Creature’s Despair
The creature, abandoned by Victor at birth, experiences intense feelings of isolation and loneliness. As he learns about humanity from a distance, he reflects on his situation: “I am alone and miserable; man will not associate with me.” This statement resonates deeply within the context of abandonment; it highlights how lack of companionship can lead to profound sorrow. The creature yearns for acceptance yet faces continuous rejection from society due to his grotesque appearance. His deep-seated desire for connection becomes increasingly evident throughout the narrative, revealing how abandonment drives him toward despair and rage.
Rejection by Society
Abandonment isn’t just limited to Victor’s actions; it’s echoed in society’s response to the creature as well. When he first encounters humans after fleeing from Victor, their reactions are hostile: “I was met with horror and hatred.” These words capture the essence of societal abandonment—the creature’s hope for acceptance is shattered repeatedly as people reject him based solely on appearance. It raises questions about how society treats those who are different or misunderstood. Shelley seems to suggest that this kind of systemic rejection can create monsters—not merely in form but in behavior as well.
A Cycle of Abandonment
As “Frankenstein” progresses, we see a cycle where one act of abandonment leads to another. Victor’s refusal to acknowledge or support his creation pushes it further into despair, resulting in violent acts against those whom Victor loves: “I will revenge my injuries; if I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear!” Here we witness an important transformation—the creature shifts from seeking love and companionship to vowing revenge against its creator out of pain caused by neglect. It emphasizes how unaddressed feelings stemming from abandonment can evolve into destructive behavior.
The Tragic Consequences
The consequences extend beyond just personal suffering; they ripple outward affecting everyone connected to both Victor and the creature. Elizabeth Lavenza becomes a victim due in part to Victor’s failure—his ultimate act of abandonment culminates when she dies at the hands (or rather fangs) of his creation on their wedding night: “I beheld Elizabeth… lifeless and inanimate.” This heartbreaking moment underlines that neglect doesn’t only harm individuals but also destroys relationships and lives around them.
A Lesson on Responsibility
In conclusion, Mary Shelley uses quotes throughout “Frankenstein” not just as storytelling devices but as poignant reflections on human nature concerning responsibility and companionship. Both Victor Frankenstein’s initial abandonments set off catastrophic chains resulting in loss—not only for himself but also for those around him—including poor Elizabeth whose death serves as a stark reminder that love cannot flourish without responsibility towards others.
This intricate web woven by Shelley reveals her deep understanding that our actions—or lack thereof—can have far-reaching consequences impacting not only our lives but also echoing through those we leave behind or choose not to embrace fully.
References
- Shelley, Mary. *Frankenstein*. Lackington Hughes & Co., 1818.
- Mellor, Anne K., eds., *The Cambridge Companion to Mary Shelley*. Cambridge University Press, 2000.
- Kahane, Claire E., “The Discourse on Gender in Mary Shelley’s *Frankenstein*,” *Studies in Romanticism*, vol 30 no 4 (1991): 499-518.
- Gordon Bockleman et al., “Ambivalence Toward Science In Mary Shelley’s *Frankenstein*,” *Romanticism*, vol 20 no 3 (2014): 232-241.
