Struggle for Power Theme in Frankenstein essays

Struggle for Power Theme in Frankenstein essays Many scenes in Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley, depict the two main characters, Victor Frankenstein and the creature, in an intimate setting where both take the role of what might be called the master and the slave. From their first meeting right after the monsters making to Victors death at the end, the novel depicts a struggle for power between creator and creation. The first scene with Frankenstein and the creature is possibly the first time a master and slave relationship is shared between the two characters in the novel. In the chapter of the creatures creation, Victor is alone with the progress of his work thus far. Even with the body of the creature inanimate, it is clear to see Victor playing this role of master. Without Frankenstein, the body would remain without life, worthless and dead. The body needs Frankenstein for its existence of life itself. Victor eventually performs the masterful act of instilling a life for the motionless matter; he grants his slave, the creature, an opportunity to live. He even views himself as the creatures master when he states, I might infuse a spark of being into the lifeless thing that lay at my feet (Frankenstein, 60). The picture of a slave bowing at a masters feet is taken literally in this scene. Not only does Frankenstein have a subconscious image of his mastery, he also makes it a realit y by placing the creature beneath him. The act of giving life the way Frankenstein did might be considered both cruel and loving. Life, to most, is a blessing. Most world religions view time on earth as a means of proving worth to some higher being or beings. Without this time, one would not be with meaning. In this manner, Frankensteins act was a loving one and regarded as a blessing to the creature. On the other hand, he did not take into consideration the creatures wishes when bringing him i...