Literature often has a protagonist who exhibits a negative trait, which eventually becomes their greatest flaw. Selfishness is one of the most dangerous flaws. A person who is self-centered and does not care about others, or only thinks about oneself, can be described as selfishness. Frankenstein (1818 novel by Mary Shelley) reveals that one’s inability to rationalize one’s selfish behavior will ultimately lead them to their demise. When Victor Frankenstein explains his childhood, you can see the selfishness of Frankenstein. He claims he was “innocent and helpless” given to him by God, who gave him parents to raise and guide him to happiness. Victor’s views are both selfish and hypocritical. It is rare for people to express their gratitude for the gift of heaven. Those who think that way are selfish narcissists. This comment highlights the irony of the events that follow. Victor mentions his childhood to suggest that parents play a major role in shaping the future of their children. After creating the monster, Victor was left to assume this responsibility, but he was cowardly selfish and pushed it aside.

Frankenstein’s first desire to create the creature is a clear example of his selfishness. Frankenstein may appear to be motivated by scientific advancement, but his true motivations are revealed when he declares that a new species would bless him as its creator and source…and owe his existence to me. Victor’s primary motive is not to improve society but to become godlike and use power only that belongs to god. Victor is aiming to praise God, not to make society more productive. It is selfish and negligent for a person to assume the role God without thinking about the consequences. Victor’s creation led to the death of his family and hardship. Victor’s selfishness in this instance is clearly evident. It is undoubtedly in sharp contrast to what he wishes he would have followed in the past. Victor was cut off from his loved ones and started his journey to reintegration into the idyllic society in which he used to be a leader. Victor leaves home to go to school shortly after his mother’s death to be there for his family in times of need. He focused his attention on the creation of the monster, and he never spoke to his family. His failure to accept responsibility is the tragic flaw of his character. He did nothing to help the monster once he had created it. The monster was the child of a selfish, uncaring parent. Victor was overcome with horror and disgust after Victor had created the monster. He ran out of his room, not able to tolerate the face of the creature he created. Victor is disgusted by his creation and decides to reject it. It was also superficial that the monster was rejected.

Victor was looking back at his Ingolstadt house, when his selfishness became apparent. Victor stated that he thought my father would be unfair and blame my neglect on my family, but he was correct. Perfect human beings should maintain a peaceful and calm mind. Passion and a passing desire should not disturb their tranquility. This rule is universal. Walton hears Victor’s story about how he prioritized his pursuit of knowledge. The tragic elements of his error are also revealed. He cannot be excused for it.

Victor’s initial attempt at consolation fails. This is evident in his decline from society. Victor said that he wanted to sympathize with others, but couldn’t keep my emotions in check. Night was closing in, and the storm increased in intensity. I suddenly saw in the darkness a figure of a… enormous stature that immediately confirmed that it was the wretch, a filthy demon that I had given my own life. Victor started his search for the monster. Victor’s negative outlook upon his encounter with the monster is further highlighted by the pathetic fallacy. Victor reacts to the creation of his monster in a cynical and shallow manner because he is alone in the mountain stormy mountains. This shows that Victor’s neglect of his social relationships has led to his inability to understand the monster and his desire to console him.

Victor then begins justifying his selfish reasons and diverting from the path of ultimate morality. He then states that he must make his engagement and allow the monster to leave with his mate. I knew that I would lose all control over my life, my ability to hide the terrible feelings that would surround me as I progressed in my unearthly occupation. While I was being employed, I must be absent from everything I love. These chapters are a compilation of my thoughts. Frankenstein convinces the monster to create a companion, but he fails to take action on his pseudo-realization of society’s and the monster’s needs. Frankenstein’s selfishness is what makes him feel secure. He will sacrifice his family and the security of society to save his monster-enraged friends. Victor’s last attempt in solving his problem leads Victor to continue his digression from the greater benefit of society. In turn, Victor is left isolated to explain his selfishness. Frankenstein’s way to think and the actions that he took as a result led to his tragic fall.

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  • louiedawson

    Hi, my name is Louie Dawson and I'm an educational blogger and school teacher. I've been writing and teaching kids about stuff like math, science, history, and English since 2010. I hope you enjoy my work!

Victor Frankenstein’s Selfishness As The Reason For His Downfall
louiedawson

louiedawson


Hi, my name is Louie Dawson and I'm an educational blogger and school teacher. I've been writing and teaching kids about stuff like math, science, history, and English since 2010. I hope you enjoy my work!


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