Frankenstein: A cautionary tal
Frankenstein as a Cautionary Tale of ScienceThe human race has long been preoccupied with the quest for knowledge. Children spend between twelve and fifteen years in schools before they are considered able to contribute to society and lead adult lives. We are convinced of the notion that a higher level of knowledge will lead to a happier life and a better world. We trust that technology and science will improve our standards of living (will make tasks easier) and lead us to salvation. Many people put as much or more faith in the scientific method as in God. In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein , Victor's ordeal can be read as a tale of warning. His intentions are good and his ability and knowledge are at the genius level. Victor is the ideal student and fledgling scientist, his faith in science, however, and his lack of moral considerations and critical foresight, land him in the path of a fatally destructive force. Shelley deals with notions regarding the danger of knowledge, the need for moral and ethical considerations, the importance of objectivity and of being responsible and accountable for one's actions. Victor is a wonderful illustration of how a scientist should not be. There are several allusions to the sin
It could very well be that the professor was speaking metaphorically on the elixir of life but Victor took it quite literally. Victor evens mentions that if his father had explained to him that the science he was studying was "exploded", he might have never taken on the task that led to his ruin. Once you know something, it cannot willingly be forgotten. In the sections of the book where Frankenstein converses with Walton on the ship, it is clear that he has undergone some changes, he has matured. Poor Victor stands as an example - everyone can learn something from his mistakes. Victor Frankenstein neglects to realize that this monster could be an awesome burden on society. Although he does eventually come to see the potential destructive force of his knowledge, he never sees it as a threat in itself. "3 Victor defiantly pushes the envelope and creates life but his playing God ends at its birth. Knowledge affects Frankenstein in a more complex way. Of course the story of Eve and the apple, and the fall from grace conjure thoughts that support this concept but it goes deeper. He warns of the misery that can be caused in the pursuit of knowledge. All that he can see is how his discoveries in this new field of science will help mankind.
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