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  • Essay / Child Abandonment in Frankenstein

    Table of ContentsVictor Frankenstein and the CreaturesEffects of Child AbandonmentParallel to Shelley's LifeConclusionChild abandonment is a recurring theme in Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein. Through the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the creature he creates, Shelley explores the consequences of neglect and abandonment of a child. This essay will examine the various instances of child abandonment in the novel and their effects on the characters involved. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayVictor Frankenstein and the CreatureVictor Frankenstein's creation of the creature can be seen as an act of abandonment in itself. By bringing the creature to life and then immediately rejecting and neglecting it, Victor abandons his responsibility as creator. He leaves the creature to fend for itself in a hostile and unwelcoming world. This initial act of abandonment sets the stage for the creature's subsequent actions and behaviors. As the creature wanders the countryside, it encounters various instances of rejection and abandonment from the people it meets. He is rejected and feared by society, forced to live in isolation and solitude. Without the guidance and care of a parental figure, the creature is left on its own to navigate the complexities of human interaction, leading to tragic consequences. Effects of Child Abandonment The novel explores the psychological and emotional effects of child abandonment on the abandoned child and the abandoner. For the creature, abandonment brings a deep sense of resentment and bitterness toward its creator. He feels betrayed and abandoned, leading to a desire for revenge and a thirst for validation and recognition. Victor Frankenstein, on the other hand, feels guilt and remorse for his actions. He realizes the grave mistake he made in creating the creature and then abandoning it. His neglect of the creature haunts him throughout the novel, leading him to a sense of responsibility for the tragic events that unfold. Alongside Shelley's life, Mary Shelley's own experiences with child abandonment can be seen as influencing the themes of Frankenstein. Shelley's mother died when she was young and her father remarried, leaving her abandoned and neglected. This feeling of abandonment and the desire for parental love and guidance may have influenced the way she describes the relationship between Victor and the creature in the novel. Plus, Shelley's tumultuous relationship with her husband, Percy Shelley, and the loss of their own children. may have contributed to her exploration of themes of parental responsibility and the consequences of neglecting one's children. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion In conclusion, child abandonment is a central theme in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Through the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature, Shelley explores the devastating effects of neglect and abandonment on both the abandoned child and the abandoner. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the repercussions of not taking responsibility for one's creations and the importance of parental love and guidance. By delving deeper into these themes, Shelley creates a timeless and thought-provoking work that continues to resonate with readers today..