frankenstein Flashcards
What does the creature mean when he says, “I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel”?
The creature compares himself to Adam, symbolizing his initial purity and desire for love. However, being called the “fallen angel” reveals how rejection and abandonment have turned him bitter, aligning his story with Satan in Paradise Lost.
Why does the creature say, “Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful”?
The creature’s fearlessness stems from having nothing left to lose, which makes him dangerous. It reflects how despair and rejection have empowered him to act without restraint.
What does the creature express in, “Accursed creator! Why did you form a monster so hideous that even you turned from me in disgust”?
The creature’s anguish is directed at Victor for his failure as a creator. The word “accursed” shows his anger, while “disgust” highlights his exclusion from humanity and Victor’s rejection.
Why does Victor say, “I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body”?
Victor describes his obsessive ambition to achieve scientific glory. Words like “sole purpose” reveal his tunnel vision, and “infusing life” shows his God-like aspirations, which lead to his downfall.
What does the creature mean by, “I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend”?
The creature argues that his evil actions are a result of his suffering. This raises the theme of nurture versus nature, emphasizing how society’s rejection shaped his cruelty.
Why does the creature say, “I am malicious because I am miserable”?
The creature links his cruelty to the pain caused by isolation and rejection. This simple yet powerful statement highlights his tragic humanity and longing for acceptance.
What is Victor warning when he says, “Learn from me… how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge”?
Victor warns Walton about the dangers of ambition and curiosity. The phrase “dangerous… acquirement” reflects the risks and consequences of pursuing forbidden knowledge.
What does Victor mean by, “The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine”?
This reflects Victor’s childlike curiosity about the world. However, “secret” and “divine” foreshadow the tragic consequences of his obsessive pursuit of scientific discovery.
What does Victor reveal in, “I was their plaything and their idol”?
Victor describes his parents’ overindulgence. The contrast between “plaything” and “idol” suggests the dangers of being overly adored, which contributes to his egotism.
Why does the creature declare, “You are my creator, but I am your master; obey!”?
The creature shifts the power dynamic, asserting dominance over Victor. The commanding “obey” reflects his anger and the consequences of Victor’s neglect.
What does Victor mean by, “The beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart”?
Victor’s reaction to his creation reflects the theme of appearance versus reality. Words like “disgust” and “horror” emphasize how the reality of the creature shatters his idealistic vision.
Why does Victor exclaim, “I had deprived myself of rest and health”?
This shows Victor’s obsessive dedication to his work, prioritizing his ambition over his well-being. The word “deprived” underscores the self-destructive nature of his pursuits.
What does the creature mean by, “I will revenge my injuries; if I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear”?
The creature reveals his transformation from seeking companionship to seeking revenge. The contrast between “love” and “fear” reflects his despair and loss of hope.
What does Victor mean when he says, “I was engaged, heart and soul, in one pursuit”?
Victor’s obsessive commitment to his scientific ambitions is clear. The phrase “heart and soul” emphasizes how fully he invests himself in his dangerous project.
Why does Victor call the creature, “Devil, do you dare approach me”?
Victor’s hatred for his creation is evident. By calling him a “devil,” Victor denies the creature’s humanity and absolves himself of responsibility for his actions.
