The intricate relationship between Victor Frankenstein and his creature lies at the heart of Mary Shelley's novel, "Frankenstein." Readers often find themselves sympathizing with the creature, forcing them to question Victor's responsibility in the creature’s violent actions. This dynamic raises broader questions about blame, gender roles, and Shelley's critique of the masculine culture of her time.

Victor Frankenstein and Modern Science

Many interpretations of the novel suggest a critical view of modern science, with Victor embodying scientific ambition unmoored from ethical considerations. He fails to foresee the tragic consequences of his experiments and disconnects from human relationships, reflecting a broader critique of scientific isolation. Some readers see Victor symbolizing the Byronic hero or the Faustian male Romantic poet, echoing themes found in the works of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, William Wordsworth, and Percy Bysshe Shelley, whose poetry permeates the novel.

Childbirth and Creation

The theme of creation in "Frankenstein" often leads to reflections on childbirth, especially considering Mary Shelley's personal history of motherhood during the novel's composition. Scholars differ in their interpretations, with some highlighting parallels between Victor's "unnatural" creation and Shelley’s view of childbirth as both miraculous and monstrous. Others contrast Victor's scientific endeavor with "natural" childbirth, suggesting a punishment for transgressing into a woman's domain. Shelley herself hinted at a metaphorical link between creating life and writing a novel.

Sympathy for the Monster

Shelley's sympathy for the monster parallels her own experience as a woman writer amidst a male-dominated intellectual circle. Like the monster learning in silence, Shelley absorbed the era's scientific and poetic discourses from the sidelines, potentially feeling monstrous herself. Thus, the monster embodies the repressed elements of female expression, his violence symbolizing Shelley's suppressed rage. This interpretation clarifies the flat portrayal of female characters and the compassion readers feel for the creature.

The Gothic Novel's Legacy

The enduring presence of Frankenstein's monster in popular culture underscores the novel's impact, initially more associated with horror films than scholarly texts. Shelley's work, rooted in the gothic tradition with its hauntings, murders, and atmospheric settings, transcends formulaic boundaries. Her innovative narrative and unique characters elevate the gothic genre, offering complex commentary while crafting a story that resonates through generations.