What are the subplots in the novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley?
The subplots in the novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley include the subplot of Captain Walton's exploration and correspondence, the subplot of Victor Frankenstein's pursuit of knowledge and scientific discovery, and the subplot of the Creature's search for companionship and revenge.
Subplot of Captain Walton's exploration and correspondence
The novel begins with a series of letters written by Captain Robert Walton to his sister Margaret. Walton is on an ambitious exploration of the Arctic and seeks to discover new lands and achieve fame. This subplot serves as a frame narrative, as Walton's letters provide the narrative framework for the main story. Through his correspondence, Walton shares his loneliness and desire for a companion, foreshadowing the Creature's own quest for companionship.
Subplot of Victor Frankenstein's pursuit of knowledge and scientific discovery
Victor Frankenstein, the protagonist, is a young scientist fascinated by the mysteries of life and death. He becomes obsessed with unlocking the secrets of creation and dedicates himself to studying natural philosophy and chemistry. This subplot explores Victor's ambition, his relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the moral and ethical consequences of his actions. It delves into the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the responsibility of scientists to consider the potential consequences of their discoveries.
Subplot of the Creature's search for companionship and revenge
After successfully creating the Creature, Victor Frankenstein is horrified by its monstrous appearance and abandons it. The Creature, longing for companionship and acceptance, experiences rejection and isolation from society. This subplot follows the Creature's journey as it learns to navigate the world, seeks to understand its own existence, and yearns for human connection. As the Creature's attempts to befriend others are met with fear and hostility, it becomes consumed by a desire for revenge against Victor and his loved ones. This subplot delves into themes of loneliness, societal rejection, and the consequences of mistreatment and neglect.
These subplots intertwine to create a complex narrative that explores themes of ambition, responsibility, isolation, and the human desire for companionship. They contribute to the overall structure and meaning of the novel, offering different perspectives and moral dilemmas that enrich the story of "Frankenstein."