Character Analysis: The Road Not Taken

Exploring Frankenstein “I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” This quote from Robert Frost’s, “The Road Not Taken,” involuntarily reveals the curiosity that is covertly sewn into the minds of men. Curiosity leads to exploration, and exploration prompts development; without exploration, one does not grow. Exploring is a characteristic of human nature. But, what if the explorer is not human? Mary Shelley’s eighteenth century novel, Frankenstein, shares the stories of multiple explorations experienced by characters Robert Walton, Victor Frankenstein, Frankenstein’s grotesque creation. Their explorations of nature, knowledge, and identity are originally formed by curiosity, and the paths they travel to acquire answers indeed make a difference in their lives and development. Robert Walton preludes the novel with his letters to his sister in England. Within these letters, Walton explains the …show more content…
His aspiration to obtain information about chemistry, philosophy, life, and death are exploited throughout his education exploration. Frankenstein states, “I ardently desired the acquisition of knowledge (Chapter 3).” After years of grueling inquiry, Frankenstein’s commitment to education pays off when he creates life from death. The monster that he brings to life also grows up absorbed in exploring the world of education. The monster’s yearning to comprehend and excel in human life is the basis of his exploration of knowledge. By observing a family’s daily activities and performing tasks to the best of his ability, the monster develops a better understanding of the world around him (Chapter 11). Walton, Frankenstein, and the monster all utilize their ambition to learn by embracing curiosity and exploring the world of knowledge to garner answers to their questions. Without travelling specific routes, answers will not acquired and the characters will not develop academically or in