Contrast/comparison of 2 characters (doctor Frankenstein and his creation) in "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley

Essay by sugarcoatedletterJunior High, 8th gradeA-, November 2006

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No matter how much two individuals are alike, there are always traits that separate one from the other. In Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein", Victor Frankenstein and Robert Walton are both seekers of knowledge who are determined to succeed. However, while Walton is able to risk everything, Frankenstein soon realizes his errors in his frenzied obsession with discovery.

The novel begins with Robert Walton's caring letters to his sister Margaret. Walton bids farewell to his "dear, excellent Margaret(9)", and thanks her for her "love and kindness(9)". His words display his love and affection for Margaret. Robert Walton, while seemingly unfeeling on his search for discovery, is tender to his beloved sister. In the same manner, Victor Frankenstein harbors love for Elizabeth Lavenza. Frankenstein creates a horrific killing creature, yet still has the heart to be affectionate to cousin. Even before Frankenstein looks at Elizabeth as his spouse, she was a sister to him, the same way Margaret is a sisterly character to Walton.

Loneliness is another aspect that Frankenstein and Walton have in common. Although loved ones first surround Frankenstein, the Creature soon takes out his anger of life and of Victor by killing all those close to him. After those unfortunate occurrences, Frankenstein is left lonely, with only one goal, to seek revenge on the Creature. Walton's loneliness is clearly described in his first letters to Margaret.

Perhaps the most obvious similarity connecting Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein is their quest for knowledge, or "the country of eternal life" as Walton described in a letter to his sister. Robert Walton's perilous journey to the Arctic is very much like Frankenstein's search for the secret of life. Walton explores unknown territory in the north. Likewise, Frankenstein delves into undiscovered territory on a theoretical basis.

In the field of science, Frankenstein is...