Alienation, as defined in this analysis, refers to a psychological and sociological phenomenon whereby a person experiences a separation, withdrawal, or loss of affection from an object, unit or group to which he was formerly attached ("Alienation"). The concept of alienation was primarily developed in the nineteenth-century writings of Marx, Hegel, and Feuerbach. They attempted to define it in a psychological, sociological and philosophical-anthropological context (Kuper 18). Considered synonymous with estrangement by this writer, alienation is a universally understood concept at the personal or group level. As a literary theme from the biblical accounts of Adam and Eve to the contemporary writers of today, alienation has often been experienced by persons or groups.
             An excellent literary example of the demonstration of alienation can be found in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. The theme of human injustice towards outsiders was explored by the parallels of Victor and his creation. Both Victor and the Monster lived isolated from society, desired a companion with whom to share their lives, hated their living condition, and encountered suffering due to insight from learned knowledge. Victor became increasingly similar to his creation as the story unfolded.
             Quite early in the story it became apparent that Victor willingly separated himself from his family and friends. He alienated himself from society, despite his insistence that the Monster isolated him from others, due to his desire for knowledge, and the countless hours he spent conducting his scientific experiments. This is evident because he never once visited his family, during the time he studied and created the Monster. The irony is that he pursued an outdated and erroneous science in order to recover his mother. While performing his scientific work, Victor changed from a gentle, kind, and healthy man to a selfish, sickly being.
             Once Frankenstein's interes...