From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Analyze the theme of ambition in Mary Shelley's “Frankenstein”

In Mary Shelley's seminal work, "Frankenstein," the theme of ambition permeates the narrative, shaping the actions and destinies of the characters. Ambition, as a driving force, explores the human desire for power, knowledge, and achievement, while simultaneously exploring the moral and psychological consequences that accompany such pursuits. The story's central figures, Victor Frankenstein and his creature, embody this theme in distinct and contrasting ways, ultimately showcasing the destructive nature of unbridled ambition.

Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious young scientist, becomes consumed by his desire to unlock the mysteries of life and create a living being. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and power blinds him to the ethical and moral considerations that should accompany such ventures. His ambition is fueled by the Romantic ideals of the time, which emphasized the individual's ability to transcend boundaries and conquer nature. Shelley portrays Victor's ambition as an unchecked force, driven by his arrogance and hubris.

As Victor delves deeper into his experimentations, he loses sight of the consequences and responsibilities tied to his ambitions. He neglects his loved ones, alienates himself from society, and disregards the ethical implications of his actions. Victor's ambition, initially sparked by noble intentions, transforms into a dangerous obsession, blurring the line between scientific discovery and monstrous creation. This metamorphosis represents the dangers of unchecked ambition, as it leads to the destruction of both the creator and the creation.

The creature, born out of Victor's ambition, serves as a mirror to his creator's ambitions. Created with the potential for greatness and benevolence, the creature's existence is marked by rejection, isolation, and a deep longing for acceptance. Abandoned by his creator, the creature's journey becomes a quest for knowledge and understanding, driven by an innate desire to transcend his circumstances.

Yet, it is the creature's own ambition, born from a place of profound pain and loneliness, that drives him to seek revenge against Victor. This ambition for revenge becomes a consuming force, overshadowing any potential for goodness within the creature. His actions, fueled by a thirst for power and justice, spiral into a cycle of violence and destruction, ultimately culminating in the tragic demise of both creator and creation.

Through the contrasting paths of Victor and his creature, Shelley explores the dual nature of ambition. On one hand, ambition drives innovation, discovery, and progress, allowing individuals to push the boundaries of what is possible. However, when ambition is left unchecked, it can lead to arrogance, moral neglect, and the destruction of oneself and others.

Shelley's portrayal of ambition in "Frankenstein" serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of unbridled ambition. The pursuit of knowledge and power, without consideration for the ethical implications and moral responsibilities involved, can have disastrous consequences. The novel reminds readers of the importance of humility, empathy, and the recognition of one's limitations in the face of ambitious endeavors.

Furthermore, "Frankenstein" suggests that ambition, when divorced from genuine human connection and a sense of purpose, can create a void that breeds resentment and destruction. Both Victor and the creature suffer from a lack of companionship and understanding, which exacerbates their ambitions and leads to their downfall. This highlights the significance of compassion and empathy in curbing the negative effects of ambition.

In conclusion, the theme of ambition in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" explores the human desire for power, knowledge, and achievement, while delving into the moral and psychological consequences that arise from unchecked ambition. Through the characters of Victor Frankenstein and his creature, Shelley demonstrates the dangers of unbridled ambition, as it leads to isolation, destruction, and the erosion of one's humanity. By emphasizing the need for ethical considerations, empathy, and genuine human connection, Shelley's work cautions against the perils of ambition when divorced from moral responsibility.