A Comprehensive Analysis of Literary Protagonists - Sykalo Evgen 2023

Frankenstein's monster - “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley

A thorough character analysis of the Frankenstein's Monster's complex evolution

A classic work of literature, Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" addresses the ramifications of deity-play and the intricacies of human nature. Frankenstein's monster, a creature fashioned from the remains of the dead, is the central figure in this Gothic story. Examining the monster through a variety of prisms, this character analysis will look at his motivations, conflicts, relationships, symbolism, personality arc, language, background, and the cultural and historical context of the story, in addition to his static or dynamic nature and his role in it.

Is a character dynamic or static?

The Frankenstein monster is a dynamic figure who changes significantly during the story. He is initially an innocent person with the capacity for good, a blank slate. But as the narrative goes on, outside influences and social rejection mold him into a vindictive being, drastically changing who he is.

Protagonist or Antagonist in the Story?

The monster is a nuanced adversary. His complaints against society and his creator elicit empathy even as he inspires terror and disaster. Because of his activities, which stem from a need for understanding and friendship, he is portrayed as a tragic figure rather than a wholly evil one.

History of the Character

The gruesome circumstances surrounding the monster's conception form his background. He is a composite of multiple people, assembled from stolen body parts, which gives him an odd and fractured existence. His quest for acceptance and identity is exacerbated by his nontraditional upbringing.

Qualities of Personality

The monster has a paradoxical personality that combines his innate goodness with the corruption that a hostile civilization has forced upon him. At first kind and inquisitive, rejection eventually shapes him into a violent being. His humanity is demonstrated by his observations of nature, which demonstrate his capacity to learn about and enjoy beauty.

Incentives and Objectives

The need for acceptance and friendship is the monster's main driving force. His original intention was to peacefully assimilate into society, but after experiencing continual rejection, he twisted his goals to include exacting retribution on both humans and his creator. He acts out of a need for connection and a reaction to the brutality he encounters.

Disagreement and Difficulties

The monster is conflicted both within and outside. He struggles with his identity and the contradiction in his nature on an inside level. He is compelled to live in constant struggle due to the abuse he receives and the rejection he receives from society. The tragic course of his character is shaped by his responses to these trials.

Connections

The relationships involving the monster are tragic. His conversation with the De Laceys serves as a metaphor for the possibility of interpersonal relationships. But fear and prejudice keep people from forming genuine relationships, which creates a terrible cycle of violence and isolation.

Archetypes and Symbols

The Frankenstein monster represents a number of archetypes and symbols. He is a representation of the perils of deity worship and the results of unbridled scientific desire. Symbolically, he embodies the intricacies of his life by possessing characteristics of both the misfit and the tragic hero.

Arc of Character

The monster's journey from innocence to malevolence is represented by its character arc. His curiosity and kindness soon give way to resentment and revenge. This sorrowful storyline is influenced by important events like his creator's loved ones' passing and the rejection by the De Lacey family.

Dialogue and Language

The monster's language changes as his personality does. He speaks elegantly at first, displaying a natural intelligence. But when he gets rejected, his speech gets more venomous and angry, which is a reflection of his inner torment.

Historical and Cultural Background

The Romantic period, which saw both societal upheaval and scientific progress, is when "Frankenstein" first appeared. The novel addresses concerns about industrialization's aftereffects and scientific research. The monster's rejection reflects societal anxieties about the "other" amid periods of profound cultural shift.

Evaluative Angles

Different interpretations of the monster have been proposed by critics and scholars. Some see him as a representation of the downtrodden, making comparisons with social misfits. Some highlight his function as a warning about the perils of scientific arrogance. Examining these viewpoints helps us comprehend the character's complexity.

Arranging the Examination

We shall proceed logically in order to fully analyze the creature. We'll start by examining his character and how dynamic or static he is in the narrative. From there, we'll go on to his history, motivations, conflicts, relationships, symbols, character development, language, and lastly, the cultural and historical setting.

Presenting Proof

Direct quotes and textual situations will be used to bolster each component of the analysis. This guarantees the solid foundation of our observations and interpretations in the original material, enabling a sophisticated and fact-based study.

Result

The character of Frankenstein's monster is incredibly deep and nuanced, reflecting the existential and moral dilemmas that run throughout Mary Shelley's masterwork. We learn about the human condition and the ramifications of social rejection by carefully examining his trip, motivations, and encounters. The creature serves as a powerful reminder of our inherent capacity for either good or evil, which is fashioned by the forces of rejection and creation.