Misconceptions In Frankenstein

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The monster in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein has several characteristics that have become commonly associated with monsters throughout literature. One of the most common misconceptions of Frankenstein is that Frankenstein is the name of the monster rather than its creator, but this misconception has brought attention to the “monster” characteristics that Dr. Frankenstein displays as well. Because of the portrayal of these characteristics Dr. Frankenstein himself, can be categorized as the monster in the horror story rather than his creation. There are several characteristics associated with a monster. The one’s Frankenstein portrays includes isolation, selfishness, lack of a conscience, and unnatural behavior or traits. Isolation refers to a removal from society, either by self-removal or force or, a combination of the two. Selfishness is the standard definition of caring about oneself more than others, but in this case, it also is in regards for creating negative outcomes for others, some as extreme as death. The lack of a conscience is what often leads to the selfishness. It is not a lack of remorse, more like a lack of taking responsibility or want to do the right thing. …show more content…

Rather than take responsibility for his actions he ignored the problem once he thought the monster had left. It was only after the monster because to kill people, that Frankenstein decided he needed to do something, but even then, his actions were limited. Even when someone’s life was at stake he refused to take responsibility and expose the monster in hopes of keeping his creation a secret. “Justine also was a girl of merit, and possessed qualities which promised to render her life happy: now all was to be obliterated in an ignominious grave; and [he] the cause!” (70). Justine was found guilty of killing William, even though the monster was the killer. Frankenstein let her be convicted instead of admitting to his

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