In the novel Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley, the literary theme search for self identity is evident and prominent in depicting how the Creature acts and lives throughout the story. The Creature was neglected by Dr. Victor Frankenstein due to the frightening appearance. This shaped the story because it shows how isolation can affect any individual positively and negatively. By understanding the theme, search for self identity, and how it is used excessively in the novel, then you can truly understand why the Creature acted how he did through isolation and detachment In the novel the Creature was neglected as soon as he came to life. Dr. Frankenstein refuses to accept his obligation as the creator to his creation. He does not care for him,
…show more content…
This problem can also be seen in the novel The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, when Holden Caulfield, the main character, seems to be excluded from the outside world around him. Like Holden, the Creature has a problem with the world around him and since Victor has such guilty feelings about pursuing his ambitions and creating the Creature it affects the creature. The Creature ends up killing Victor’s brother William Frankenstein, best friend Henry Clerval, and fiancée Elizabeth Lavensa throughout the story. At first when the monster killed William he didn’t intend to, however he then realized that killing Victor’s family was the only way to get his revenge. The creature would not have had this urge to kill had he not been detached from Victor at the beginning of his creation. Victor does not really consciously attempt to engage with those around him, but the Creature does, craving companionship and a way to release himself from his isolation. Ultimately, the Creature cannot become part of any community so this isolation creates rage inside of the monster and leads him to commit the acts that ultimately isolate Victor. By looking at this support it is clear to see that Victor and the Creature both go on a search for self identity through each other. Since Victor created isolation for the Creature by abandoning and running away from him, the Creature created isolation for Victor by killing his loved
This problem can also be seen in the novel The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, when Holden Caulfield, the main character, seems to be excluded from the outside world around him. Like Holden, the Creature has a problem with the world around him and since Victor has such guilty feelings about pursuing his ambitions and creating the Creature it affects the creature. The Creature ends up killing Victor’s brother William Frankenstein, best friend Henry Clerval, and fiancée Elizabeth Lavensa throughout the story. At first when the monster killed William he didn’t intend to, however he then realized that killing Victor’s family was the only way to get his revenge. The creature would not have had this urge to kill had he not been detached from Victor at the beginning of his creation. Victor does not really consciously attempt to engage with those around him, but the Creature does, craving companionship and a way to release himself from his isolation. Ultimately, the Creature cannot become part of any community so this isolation creates rage inside of the monster and leads him to commit the acts that ultimately isolate Victor. By looking at this support it is clear to see that Victor and the Creature both go on a search for self identity through each other. Since Victor created isolation for the Creature by abandoning and running away from him, the Creature created isolation for Victor by killing his loved