Who Is to Blame

Who Is To Blame?

"Frankenstein", one of the key texts in modern literature, was written by Mary Shelley in 1818 when she was only 21. The novel was first published anonymously, and the author was only later revealed to be Shelley. When she republished the book in 1831, with changes to the story, Shelley had finally answered the question she had been asked several times: how could such a young girl write about such horrible things? Her answer describes her literary sources, as well as a disturbing dream that was the kernel of inspiration for the story. "Frankenstein" is a tale about a man named Victor Frankenstein who creates life out of 'raw materials'. As the story unfolds, the creature comes to life and ends up, out of revenge, killing several members of Frankenstein's family. Although most readers feel hatred and no sympathy towards the creature for the reason that he has murdered Justine, William and Elizabeth, I do. In one's opinion, the monster is not to blame for what he has done; in reality the fault should be laid upon his creator, Victor Frankenstein.

One rainy day, Doctor Frankenstein decides to travel to the summit of Montanvert, and it is there that he and the creature talk for the first time. This is a scene of great importance for the readers finally see the point of view of the creature. We learn all about his experiences in the real world but more importantly, we learn about his hatred towards his creator. "I remembered Adam's supplication to his Creator. But where was mine? He had abandoned me, and in the bitterness of my heart I cursed him." (page 120). By comparing Victor to God, the monster heaps responsibility for his evil actions upon Victor, scolding him for his neglectful failure to provide a nourishing environment.

When Victor Frankenstein left his creature to die he did not realize the problem he was making. Not only did he not provide his creature with a nourishing environment, but Frankenstein had never taught his creature about emotions. Victor did not realize how powerful ignorance could be. By not teaching his creature how to use and how to control his feelings, it resulted in the death of William, Justine, and Elizabeth. Although the creature did perform the physical act of killing, these murders can all be rooted back to Victor Frankenstein for not only creating this creature but for never educating it.

Anger