Nature Of Power In Frankenstein

Power defines and differentiates us all, but it also corrupts those with the best intentions. Abraham Lincoln said that “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man 's character, give him power.” To have power over someone means to influence or control their actions. Mary Shelley 's Frankenstein offers the ultimate demonstration of all the aspects of power. Shelley weaves a science fiction tale involving Victor, the scientist, who exerts power over life by animating a Creature. The Creature, in turn, exerts power, in the form of fear, over Victor. While on the surface, it would seem a simple plot, Shelley, leads the reader through a novel essentially studying power. She demonstrates that power can shift quickly …show more content…
He brought life to an otherwise lifeless object. The ability to give life and play God remains the ultimate power. While creating the monster Victor did not think of the repercussions of his actions, he did not concerned himself with the ethical dilemmas only if he had the power to do it. While creating the monster, Victor said to himself “I might infuse a spark of being into this lifeless thing that lay at my feet.” The idea that the Creature would have free will and thoughts independent of Victor 's do not seem to have played a role in the decision. At first glance the hierarchy of power would seems set, Victor has power over the Creature simply through the act of creation. Shelley 's plot twists to show that tightly held power quickly slips and …show more content…
While the Creature tortured Victor with the psychological trauma of helplessness as he murdered Victor 's family and friends, the Creature began experiencing something just as difficult; loneliness. The longer the Creature lived alone, the more he became rejected by people deepening his wounded spirit. Without thought for future consequences, Victor had deprived the Creature of what everyone needs, interaction with people that share common interests. The creature took his early interaction with humans as a indication that no other humans would accept him into society. He decided that he required a companion of his own kind and he would persuade Victor to make one. The power shifts back to the creator. Once Victor realizes the possible repercussions that could come from creating a companion for his creature he quickly cesses his work on the second monster and throws the remains into the