Wednesday, October 3, 2012
"Knowledge"
In the character Victor Frankenstein, the Enlightenment idea of knowledge is evident when he replies, "My dreams were therefore undisturbed by reality; and I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher's stone and the elixir of life" (Shelly 22). Victor was an intelligent boy who grew up in Geneva reading the works of antiquated scientists who studied alchemy. When Victor attended the college of Ingolstadt, he was divulged to modern science. He mastered his studies in just a few years with the help of his professors. Victor becomes so enthralled with the "secret of life", he discovers it and brings a hideous creature to life. His seeking of knowledge paid off. Victor creation was distorted, he replies, "I finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart" (Shelly 34). Victor feels ashamed and realize what a horrible monster he begotten from his erudition.
In my conclusion Victor becomes so hungry for knowledge that he forgets about his family and the world he lives. His thirst for knowledge was created in selfishness. We can see knowledge sometimes can be a power to create, also a great responsibility.
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Victor's quest for knowledge did appear to over come him. It's like he forgot about his family and those that loved him. The family became concerned and wanted to hear from him. He alone was able to console the family. This became evident in the letters from his father, "Come, dearest Victor; you alone can console Elizabeth."(Shelly 45)
ReplyDeleteVictor was so concerned about gaining knowledge of the unknown that He'd lost track of everything else important to life such as promises he'd made, family, and friendships. Gaining knowledge that other men had never gained before was a goal of VIctors and it cause him to step out of his place. He was willing to give his life for the quest of knowledge (Shelly 12).
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