Cat's Cradle: A Literary Analysis

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Knowledge can be compared to a torch, or fire. Fire brings light and can help guide us through darkness. At the same time, fire, when not used wisely or contained, can lead to destruction. Similarly, the human species can use knowledge to further advance us, or we could let it tear us down. This is a common theme in the novels Cat’s Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut and Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Both novels show a scenario where knowledge has crossed a line by being used in insensible ways, causing it to become a burden. To use knowledge in a wise way, we have to ask the question; “even though we can, should we?” When this question is given thought, knowledge can be used to benefit humanity. Writer D.T. Max shows this by portraying the story of Neil Harbisson, who could not see in color before he had a cybernetic implant. This idea can be applied to the past advancements of technology, science, and medicine, which have helped humanity and can continue to. Knowledge, when used with precaution, can assist in the evolving of humanity. However, when knowledge is taken …show more content…

He had not thought about the downfall his actions could bring until after the monster was created. This novel is often referred to as The Modern Prometheus. In greek mythology, Prometheus is known for stealing fire from the gods, and giving it to mankind. This can be compared to Victor because he stole God’s job; he created life. Victor abused his understanding of human anatomy and created another being, which led to disaster in his life. (Shelley) If Victor had thought about what he was creating, he could have used his understanding for the benefit of humanity, rather than self gain. Today, our species is creating androids, someday, it could be human beings. It is crucial for humans and our advancement that we know the consequences our actions could bring because abusing the awareness we have can have