The Ethical Dilemmas in Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein'

Frankenstein, a work of horror and philosophy, transcends the typical boundaries of the genre to become a timeless exploration of ethical responsibility, scientific ethics, and human nature. Written by Mary Shelley, the novel is a masterpiece that delves into the complexities of creation, nature versus nurture, and the consequences of one's actions. At the heart of the narrative is Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist whose ambitious experiments lead to profound moral and ethical challenges.

The Scientific Ambition of Victor Frankenstein

Victor Frankenstein, a young and ambitious man, dreams of creating life itself. His scientific prowess and desire to dethrone natural laws lead him to an undertaking that is both groundbreaking and morally questionable. Shelley’s portrayal of Victor as a man of genius who aspires to godliness is not just a literary device but a reflection of the scientific and philosophical debates of the time. Frankenstein’s experiments involve stitching together parts of various dead bodies and reanimating them with the power of electricity from lightning. This imaginative depiction of resurrection underscores the power and dangers of scientific innovation.

The Failure of Parental Responsibility

Once the “monster” comes to life, Victor is left with the horror of his own creation. The monster, initially innocent and curious, is immediately rejected by society due to its monstrous appearance. Shelley draws a parallel between Victor's abandonment of the monster and a parent abandoning a newborn child. This act of neglect serves as a powerful commentary on the responsibilities of creation. Unlike a loving parent who would nurture and protect, Victor abandons his creation, setting the stage for a tragic and isolating existence for the monster.

The Creature’s Journey of Understanding

With no guidance or interaction from Victor, the monster begins to explore the world on his own. His journey from a naive and confused creature to a deeply hurt and vengeful one is a poignant narrative of loneliness and the struggle for acceptance. The monster resorts to observing humans, learning about their way of life and emotions, all the while feeling the crushing weight of societal rejection. His life becomes a series of betrayals, leading to a climactic confrontation with the creator who abandoned him.

Moral and Ethical Failures

Shelley’s novel also critiques the scientific and moral failures of the time. Victor’s experimentation, while driven by a desire to understand and conquer, is marred by a lack of ethical considerations. His disregard for propriety and respect for human life is evident in his grave-robbing and the inhumane nature of his work. The acts of desecrating graves, carving corpses, and handling human remains without proper regard for their sanctity are acts donatedformData3/>

In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s 'Frankenstein' is not just a cautionary tale about the boundaries of science but a profound exploration of ethical responsibility. Through the character of Victor Frankenstein, Shelley highlights the dangers of ignoring moral responsibilities, the consequences of creating without care, and the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of creation.