Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley, is a novel, which explores many of the characteristics of gothic romanticism. Dreary gothic settings, a focus on the supernatural, love, and nature, are all key elements of this novel. It also delves into the topic of the human emotion, bringing the reader to a closer understanding of each character. Shelley often relates the depression or burdens of the characters so well that the reader feels pity for them. As I read this novel, I was compelled to empathize with each of the major characters.
             Robert Walton is the first character in the novel for, whom I felt I could relate to sympathetically. Through his letters to his sister in the beginning of the novel, Shelley illustrates his feelings of loneliness. Robert writes of his desire for companionship in each letter and with each, his anxiety is shown to be increasing. He tells Margaret things like, "I desire the company of a man who could sympathise with me...but I bitterly feel the want of a friend" (Pg. 4). The reader is eased into empathizing with Robert, as Shelley clearly depicts the emotions that he is feeling. Closing sentence
             The "monster" is another friendless character that Shelley compels the reader to feel for. There are many more aspects about the "monster" that can be pitied than of Robert Walton. His hideousness, failed attempts at human interaction, and primary desertion by his own creator all make excellent avenues for Shelley to bring the reader to terms with the "monster's" afflictions. A choice example of this is when the "monster" attempts to befriend a young boy and receives only hurtful remarks from him, "'monster! Ugly wretch! You wish to tear me to pieces-you are an ogre'...and loaded me with epithets which carried despair to my heart" (Pg. 102). When the "monster" says, that despair is brought to his heart by the boy's hu...