Examples Of Social Contract Theory In Frankenstein

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A Troubled Creator and a Hopeful Monster


Mary Shelley’s nineteenth century classic “Frankenstein” Explores the troubles that came to the monster because of his differences, how he overcomes them, what makes the monster relatable, Victor’s individual tragic flaw, and the tragedy of this book.


The monster in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is ultimately confused and let down by his creator, Victor, because of the way that people respond to him. In the harsh wilderness the monster discovers fire and it’s usefulness to him as a “person” as it contributes warmth, light, and a means of cooking food to make it easier to eat. The monsters disfavored reactions begin when he enters a hut in search of food and the occupants of the house are clearly …show more content…

Social contract theory develops a new understanding of society whereby individuals originate in a presocial state of nature and form societies to serve their private interests. At the center of social contract philosophy is a contradiction. Rather than bringing individuals together, society is designed to protect them from each other...As the challenge of negotiating between individual and social needs has had consequences for the contemporary understanding of the self as internally divided between the contrary pulls of self-interest and social commitment, social contract theory helps account for some of Frankenstein’s iconic cultural status and for the ongoing popular fascination with Victor’s dilemma.” This is sorted out by Mary Shelley in the novel because of one of the main character's tragic flaws. Victor essentially created the monster due to his tragic flaw of immense individualism. It is kind of ironic that Victor is individualistic, independent, and free, yet he created a life long companion that he is horrified by and that he blames for the murder of his youngest brother, his wife, and his friend and work

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