Determining the primary role women play in Frankenstein creates many different beliefs about the strengths and weaknesses the females bring to the gothic novel. For example, Vanessa D. Dickerson, author of “The Ghost of a Self: Female Identity in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” argues that “the females in the novel are quintessentially ambiguous figures: present but absent, morally animate angels, but physically and politically inanimate mortals.” Therefore, Dickerson asserts that the men in the novel overshadow the females in the book, yet when they are sick at heart they are in search of their female companion’s assistance (Dickerson 80+). Her deduction is strongly supported by the different relationships found in Frankenstein as the different
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Saville while not having a voice or representation other than by references in Walton’s letters is an outlet for Walton’s insecurities and strong beliefs. Saville is as also a representation of Mary Shelley, who waited silently till the year of 1831 to tell the world that she was the valid author of the book and not her husband Percy Shelley (Dickerson 80). However, Saville received from her brother the physical paper story of the monster along with his adventures and want for a male companion who understands him. Walton wishes to be supported by his sister and demands many times asking her if the actions he takes are justified. He inquires for an answer to his questions like, “do I not deserve to accomplish some great purpose?” and “Oh, that some encouraging voice would answer in the affirmative” (Shelley 3). He then waits for a reply from Saville while repeatedly sending letters from the North Pole looking to receive any hint of encouragement only she can …show more content…
Victor’s father Alphonse marries Caroline Beaufort because when her father, his close friend, dies she is then taken care of for two years and shows him that “it [is] necessary that he should approve highly to love strongly” (Shelley 15). This influences Alphonse to treat her as best as he can almost as if she was a delicate plant that will fall to the lightest breeze. Victor as well believes that his mother provided nothing, but the best for him and that he was growing up a path that was full of enjoyment. Her strong concern for Victor is also depicted when she takes the next step in securing his future by gifting him his to be wife Elizabeth. She was compared to a blessing bestowed upon the family and all in the household adored her company. Even more, Victor felt that she was all his responsibility as he says Elizabeth is, “mine to protect, love, and cherish” (Shelley 18). Nevertheless, as Shelley’s mother died eleven days after her birth. A similar fate occurs to Caroline as she dies contracting the scarlet fever after caring for Elizabeth, whom Victor felt was her favorite, and passes the entire care of the family to the next female in the family line. Elizabeth who is loved by the entire family is manifested from the neglect the author receives from her father and shows the true nature of acknowledgment the author wished
Saville while not having a voice or representation other than by references in Walton’s letters is an outlet for Walton’s insecurities and strong beliefs. Saville is as also a representation of Mary Shelley, who waited silently till the year of 1831 to tell the world that she was the valid author of the book and not her husband Percy Shelley (Dickerson 80). However, Saville received from her brother the physical paper story of the monster along with his adventures and want for a male companion who understands him. Walton wishes to be supported by his sister and demands many times asking her if the actions he takes are justified. He inquires for an answer to his questions like, “do I not deserve to accomplish some great purpose?” and “Oh, that some encouraging voice would answer in the affirmative” (Shelley 3). He then waits for a reply from Saville while repeatedly sending letters from the North Pole looking to receive any hint of encouragement only she can …show more content…
Victor’s father Alphonse marries Caroline Beaufort because when her father, his close friend, dies she is then taken care of for two years and shows him that “it [is] necessary that he should approve highly to love strongly” (Shelley 15). This influences Alphonse to treat her as best as he can almost as if she was a delicate plant that will fall to the lightest breeze. Victor as well believes that his mother provided nothing, but the best for him and that he was growing up a path that was full of enjoyment. Her strong concern for Victor is also depicted when she takes the next step in securing his future by gifting him his to be wife Elizabeth. She was compared to a blessing bestowed upon the family and all in the household adored her company. Even more, Victor felt that she was all his responsibility as he says Elizabeth is, “mine to protect, love, and cherish” (Shelley 18). Nevertheless, as Shelley’s mother died eleven days after her birth. A similar fate occurs to Caroline as she dies contracting the scarlet fever after caring for Elizabeth, whom Victor felt was her favorite, and passes the entire care of the family to the next female in the family line. Elizabeth who is loved by the entire family is manifested from the neglect the author receives from her father and shows the true nature of acknowledgment the author wished