Examples Of Narcissism In Frankenstein

(maybe add something about how humans have been showing narcissistic qualities since forever.)In our modern society, being narcissistic is a common thing. People take selfies, brag about their lives online, and pay thousands of dollars to enhance their facial features. The older generations are vociferous with their displeasure in the growing self-absorption in the younger generations, saying that only thinking of yourself is harmful. Frankenstein is a perfect representation of how harmful thinking only about yourself can be. Written in 1818, Mary Shelley tells the tale of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist about to create a being while completely disregarding the future consequences of his actions. Mary Shelley uses symbolism, heightened

During Justine’s trial, Frankenstein says that “[his] own agitation and anguish was extreme during the whole trial. … I could not sustain the horror of my situation; and when I perceived that the popular voice, and the countenances of the judges, had already condemned my unhappy victim, I rushed out of the court in agony. The tortures of the accused did not equal mine; she as sustained by innocence, but the fangs of remorse tore my bosom, and would not forego their hold” (Shelley, 1818, p. 71). Through words like “extreme”, “agony”, “condemned”, which are words with strong negative connotations, the mood is darkene. Later, Frankenstein’s emotions turn to self-hatred - “From the tortures of my own heart, I turned to contemplate the deep and voiceless grief of my Elizabeth. This also was my doing! And my father’s woe, and the desolation of that late so smiling home -- all was the work of my thrice-accursed hands!” (Shelley, 1818, p. 75) Frankenstein feels the guilt piling up. The heightened emotions are conveyed through the word choice - “tortures”, “desolation”, “voiceless grief” - these words darken the mood after the execution has occurred. After mentioning his hands, the topic of the paragraph shifts to him.