Scientific Knowledge In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

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In Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, a genius scientist named Victor Frankenstein uses science and technology for selfish purposes by surpassing humankind’s ability and going against nature, using his powers to bring a breathless creature to life. The advancement of science and technology has had society question whether humans will attempt to play God’s role and the consequences that society will have to face with new discoveries (Barcia). Therefore, as modern science continues to grow, humans continue to wonder if the creator of the world, God will one day be replaced with a God-like figure as artificial selection, cloning, and genetic engineering, continue to advance at a rapid pace (Levin 34). In the novel, Victor uses his scientific knowledge …show more content…

Frankenstein faced numerous consequences as he used his power of knowledge to bring the dead to life. Frankenstein used science to play the role of God and tossed his creation aside as if he was no use, just as how God had abandoned Adam. He created life without the need of women, mistreated the dead, and played the role of nature. Frankenstein not only used science to take the role of nature but also stole God’s part when he performed the unnatural. He also failed to take proper responsibility and care for the creature he had put into this world (Belt). The creature’s rejection from humanity including his creator proves that Frankenstein has failed in creating a creature with human-like qualities which has caused harm to the creature’s life. The first consequence of his actions is the murder of his relatives. Frankenstein’s act of disregarding his creation allows for the creature to take the life of his loved ones, despite the creature’s initial goodness. He acts as if he is God and makes the decision to remain quiet about the death of William, even though he knew the culprit. After the death of his loved ones, Frankenstein realizes the consequences that one has to face for playing Gods role which would have been avoidable if he had not built a “devil.”
When one attempts to use their power of science to portray God, it often includes the death of humans even if one's intentions are to bring change to the science community. Although Frankenstein successfully brought his creation to life, and the creature considered him as God, Shelley warns her readers of the consequences that one has to face for abusing science and playing God`s role. Frankenstein`s intentions were not to misuse his power of science but, the results of his attempt to re-define nature was harmful to society, himself and the

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