ly as a scholar . . . but rather as a master, active with his own
             instruments'" (35). Clearly, we can see how these aspects work together to
             create the perfect foundation for Shelley's tale.
             One of the most prominent themes in Frankenstein is the danger of
             knowledge. We are first introduced to magical and mystical quality of the
             unknown with Walton when he writes Margaret, "I cannot describe to you my
             sensations on the near prospect of my undertaking
             . . . I have often attributed my attachment to, my passionate enthusiasm
             for, the dangerous mysteries of the ocean to that production of the most
             imaginative or modern poets" (Shelley 7). He continues to describe his
             "love for the marvelous, a belief in the marvelous, intertwined with all my
             projects" (7). As he reaches the "floating sheets of ice" (8) that present
             danger for the expedition, we witness not only Walton's determination, but
             we also see how his thirst for the conquering the unknown has temporarily
             blinded him from any impending dangers. Walton does realize a certain
             amount of risk involved in his expedition, but he forges on with a child-
             like fervor. This is clear when he writes, "But success shall crown my
             endeavors . . . What can stop the determined heart and resolved will of
             man'" (8). Although Walton is seen as a minor character in the novel, he
             is important. He is obviously necessary for the novel to take place, but
             he is also important because he learns from Frankenstein's mistakes. Near
             the end of the novel, when the ice becomes impenetrable, Walton chooses
             logic over adventure and decides to return to England.
             Similarly, Frankenstein mirrors Walton's passion. One of the first
             things he tells Walton is, "I would sacrifice my fortune, my existence, my
             every hope, to the furtherance of my enterprise. One man's life or death
             were but a small price to pay for the acquirement of the knowledge which I
             so...