Essay: The Subjectivity of Characters in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” first published in 1818, is a landmark work in the Gothic and Romantic literary traditions. It presents a complex narrative structure and rich thematic content, exploring profound questions about human nature, creation, and responsibility. This essay delves into the subjectivity of characters in “Frankenstein,” examining how their personal perspectives shape the narrative and contribute to the novel’s thematic depth. By analyzing Victor Frankenstein, the Creature, and other key figures through various literary theories, we gain a deeper understanding of their motivations and the novel’s enduring significance.

Narrative Structure and Point of View

“Frankenstein” employs a frame narrative structure, with multiple layers of storytelling that offer different perspectives on the events. The primary narrative is delivered by Robert Walton, who recounts Victor Frankenstein’s story through letters to his sister. Within Victor’s narrative, the Creature also tells his own story. This intricate structure allows Shelley to present the subjectivity of her characters, highlighting the limitations and biases of each narrator.

1. Victor Frankenstein’s Perspective: Victor’s narrative dominates much of the novel, presenting him as a tragic hero whose ambition and quest for knowledge lead to his downfall. His subjective account often emphasizes his suffering and portrays the Creature as a monstrous being, reflecting his deep sense of guilt and responsibility.
2. The Creature’s Perspective: The Creature’s narrative offers a stark contrast to Victor’s. It humanizes him, providing insights into his experiences and emotions. His account challenges Victor’s portrayal, presenting him as a sympathetic figure who suffers rejection and isolation. This dual perspective creates a complex moral landscape, prompting readers to question the reliability of each narrator.
3. Robert Walton’s Perspective: Walton’s letters frame the entire narrative, providing an external viewpoint that reflects on the stories of Victor and the Creature. His perspective underscores themes of exploration and ambition, paralleling Victor’s quest for knowledge and foreshadowing the potential consequences of his own endeavors.

Literary Theories and Character Analysis

1. Psychoanalytic Theory: Applying psychoanalytic theory to “Frankenstein” reveals the deep psychological complexities of the characters. Victor’s obsession with creating life can be seen as an expression of his subconscious desires and fears. His guilt and subsequent horror at the Creature reflect internal conflicts and unresolved traumas. The Creature, on the other hand, represents the repressed aspects of Victor’s psyche, embodying his darker impulses and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
2. Feminist Theory: From a feminist perspective, the absence of strong female voices in “Frankenstein” is notable. The novel’s women, such as Elizabeth Lavenza and Justine Moritz, are often passive and victimized, reflecting the patriarchal context of the time. However, the Creature’s creation can also be interpreted as a subversion of natural reproductive processes, challenging traditional gender roles and highlighting the dangers of male-dominated science and power.
3. Postcolonial Theory: The Creature’s experiences of alienation and marginalization resonate with postcolonial themes of otherness and displacement. His struggle for identity and acceptance mirrors the plight of colonized peoples, who are often dehumanized and excluded by dominant cultures. This perspective sheds light on the broader social and cultural dynamics at play in the novel.

Themes and Character Subjectivity

1. Creation and Responsibility: The novel’s exploration of creation and responsibility is deeply intertwined with the subjectivity of its characters. Victor’s initial pride in his scientific achievement quickly turns to horror and guilt, reflecting his failure to anticipate the ethical implications of his actions. The Creature, in turn, grapples with his existence and the lack of agency in his creation, highlighting the complex relationship between creator and creation.
2. Isolation and Alienation: Both Victor and the Creature experience profound isolation, shaping their actions and perspectives. Victor’s self-imposed isolation in his pursuit of knowledge leads to his moral and emotional disintegration. The Creature’s enforced isolation due to his appearance drives him to seek revenge against his creator, illustrating the devastating effects of social exclusion.
3. Ambition and Hubris: The theme of ambition and hubris is central to Victor’s character. His relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge and desire to transcend natural boundaries ultimately result in his ruin. This theme is mirrored in Walton’s ambition to explore the Arctic, serving as a cautionary parallel and emphasizing the novel’s critique of unchecked ambition.

Conclusion

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a rich tapestry of subjective narratives that offer diverse perspectives on the novel’s central themes. By examining the characters through various literary theories, we gain a deeper understanding of their motivations and the broader implications of their actions. The novel’s exploration of creation, responsibility, isolation, and ambition remains profoundly relevant, offering timeless insights into the human condition. Through its complex narrative structure and multifaceted characters, “Frankenstein” continues to captivate and challenge readers, cementing its place as a masterpiece of Gothic and Romantic literature.