We will learn the 5 Dangerous Themes of Frankenstein.
Read the learning cards carefully. You will be tested on each one!
Ambition (wanting to achieve goals) is usually good. But Victor Frankenstein had Unchecked Ambition. He wanted to be like a god and cheat death.
Because he was so obsessed with "could I do it?", he never stopped to ask "should I do it?".
Imagine climbing a mountain in a storm just to take a selfie. You ignore the warning signs. You ignore the safety ropes. You achieve your goal (the photo), but you fall and get hurt. That is what Victor did with science.
Why does the story warn us about Victor's ambition?
He CHOOSES isolation. He locks himself away from his family and friends to do his secret work. He thinks he doesn't need people.
He is FORCED into isolation. He wants friends! But people scream and run away because he looks scary. He is lonely and sad.
The Lesson: Humans (and monsters) are social creatures. When we are cut off from love, we become miserable and make bad choices.
Which statement best describes the difference between Victor and the Monster?
This asks: Are monsters born evil, or made evil?
When the Monster is "born", he isn't evil. He smiles! He tries to help a family by collecting wood. He saves a girl from drowning.
He only becomes violent after people throw rocks at him and shoot him. The story suggests that bad treatment (Nurture) creates monsters.
According to the novel, why does the Monster become violent?
The story turns into a deadly game of tag where no one wins.
Revenge is described as "corrosive" (like acid). It eats away at the container it is held in. By focusing only on revenge, both Victor and the Monster waste their lives and destroy everything they love.
What is the "moral lesson" regarding revenge in the novel?
This is the most important theme. Victor wants the glory of being a creator (playing God), but he refuses the Duty.
If you create life (a child, a pet, or a monster), you are responsible for its happiness and safety. Victor runs away because his creation is ugly. His refusal to take responsibility is the true cause of the tragedy.
What was Victor's greatest failure?
Scientist: Student