Exploring the Characters of Frankenstein: An In-Depth Look

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) is a gothic novel that explores themes like science, ethics, ambition, and humanity through the story of Victor Frankenstein and his creation. The characters in this novel are rich and complex, allowing for deep analysis and introspection. Let’s dive into the world of Frankenstein and examine the characters that make this novel a timeless classic.

Victor Frankenstein

As the novel’s protagonist, Victor Frankenstein’s obsession with science and creating life drives the plot forward. Born into a wealthy Swiss family, Victor is passionate about learning and delving into the mysteries of nature from an early age.

Driven by the desire to solve “the world’s secrets” and essentially “play God,” Victor uses his scientific knowledge to create life from inanimate matter. Although his intentions may not be evil, his act of creation results in chaos and destruction, as his Creature wreaks havoc upon his loved ones.

Victor’s main internal conflict is his unwillingness to take responsibility for his actions. He fails to see the consequences of abandoning his Creature and arguably plays a part in the tragic events that take place in the novel. It is only towards the end of the novel that Victor comes to terms with the consequences of his actions and acknowledges his responsibility.

The Creature

The Creature is the undeniable victim of the story. Brought to life by Victor’s experiment, he is abandoned by his creator the moment Victor sees his ghastly appearance. The Creature longs for acceptance, love, and companionship. As an intelligent, articulate, and sensitive being, he desperately tries to find his place in a society that shuns and fears him.

Despite his monstrous appearance, the Creature is initially gentle and kind, trying to foster connections with humans. However, constant rejection and violence drive the Creature to seek revenge on his creator. His actions, though tragic and horrific, stem from his desperation for connection, underscoring the theme of humanity in the novel.

Although labeled as a monster throughout the story, the Creature’s character arc highlights that monstrosity is not necessarily about physical appearance, but the result of one’s actions or circumstances.

Robert Walton

The novel, set in an epistolary format, uses the character of Robert Walton to frame the story. A sea captain on a mission to reach the North Pole, Walton meets Victor Frankenstein in the Arctic and becomes a confidante who hears and records Victor’s tale.

Through the letters Walton writes to his sister, Shelley connects the themes of ambition and the pursuit of knowledge in both Walton and Frankenstein. Like Victor, Walton is also driven by a desire to discover and conquer the unknown, a desire that puts him and his crew in danger.

Walton’s character showcases the importance of accountability and companionship. In contrast to Victor, Walton ultimately chooses to prioritize the well-being of his crew over his ambitions. He also sees the importance of friendship, which is evident through the bond he forms with Victor.

The Supporting Characters

Frankenstein is also filled with supporting characters who significantly contribute to the themes and emotions within the novel. Such characters include:

Elizabeth Lavenza: Victor’s adopted sister and later his bride, Elizabeth represents love, compassion, and innocence. Her tragic fate emphasizes the consequences of Victor’s actions.
Henry Clerval: Victor’s close childhood friend, who embodies goodness and virtue. Henry supports Victor throughout the novel, showcasing the importance of friendship.
Justine Moritz: A servant in the Frankenstein household, falsely accused of a crime committed by the Creature. Justine’s character emphasizes the injustice and tragedy that stem from Victor’s failure to take responsibility.
De Lacey Family: A blind man and his children whom the Creature observes and learns from. Through their interactions with the Creature, the novel explores human prejudice, education, and compassion.

Conclusion

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein weaves a complex narrative that explores the human condition through the characters of Victor Frankenstein and his Creature. The rich and intricate characters within this novel underscore themes like ambition, responsibility, ethics, and companionship. Their actions and development provide valuable insights into humanity—a key factor in making Frankenstein a timeless masterpiece.