Frankenstein Conflict Essay

Conflict’s Effects on Frankenstein’s Creation Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is an incredible and complex example of how characters, no matter their background or physical appearance, are shaped by conflict. Conflict is a clash that commonly occurs in day-to-day life, such as a disagreement with a coworker. These events– at times– are intense, however, create a moment to learn conflict-resolution tactics; the various methods of parties finding a peaceful solution. Although Frankenstein’s frightening series of events seemingly ends with no resolution, readers can relate to and observe the conflict-based changes within, specifically, The Creature. The Creature: a byproduct of his mentally conflict-ridden creator, Frankenstein. The “wretched fiend”–

The idea of a female replicant sent his creator into a frenzy, however the calm creature convinced the man to travel back to England and begin creating his companion. Frankenstein’s journey, time spent studying and collecting materials, and the moments leading up to his demise, were filled with panic. In Chapter 20, readers are introduced to the mad scientist, struggling with his moral compass and the thought of introducing the world to another living experiment, when suddenly The Creature appears from the lab's window with an expression of “...the utmost extent of malic and treachery.” (Shelley 154) This expression contrasts with the good nature of The Creature that readers are familiar with, however it terrified Victor to the point of destroying his creations' only chance of connection. As Victor impulsively “...tore to pieces...” (Shelley 154) his work, The Creature’s remaining amount of trust tore apart with

The spite towards Victor and society within the lonely being only grew, and thus began his fit of violent rampages. After leaving Victor to ponder on his threat, “...I shall be with you on your wedding night” (Shelley 156)-- differing from the flowery and soft phrases often said by The Creature throughout Frankenstein– the protagonist goes on to commit a series of heinous acts; acts that were nowhere comparable to what had been committed towards him. Readers, along with Victor, are faced with the knowledge of his companion’s– Henry Clerval’s– death. What Victor had done to his creation, had been done in a more brutal manner to him. Faced with the “...lifeless form...” (Shelley 156) in front of him, he swore to finally eradicate his creation; an innocent, betrayed, now rage-filled criminal. How could The Creature, before so harmless, become so vengeful and violent? Perhaps the constant societal beatings developed him to believe revenge was the only conflict-resolution tactic. The lack of a teacher, Victor Frankenstein, played a role in his lack of emotional and critical thinking