In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein and Justine Moritz shared similar home lives, but their integrity and dispositions were as different as chalk and cheese. Through her letters, Elizabeth reminds Victor of some of the better qualities Justine possesses. Unfortunately, Victor Frankenstein does not show any desire to display those traits. He chooses to focus on his studies and ignore those around him, missing his opportunity to share memories with his loving family.
Both Justine and Victor have suffered in their families. When Justine’s mother and 3 siblings died, Caroline Frankenstein took poor Justine under her wing and provided the motherly love and affection Justine craved. After Caroline’s death, Justine was just as heartbroken as Victor was, for Caroline was a mother to them both. The Frankenstein household has many tragedies stored in its eaves. Hopefully, the future holds joy rather than sorrow.
One of the many traits that set Justine above Victor is her integrity. She held herself responsible for the loss of William in a way that was atypical of her status as a servant. Victor, however, does not seem to acknowledge his guilt as
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Victor is passionate, studious, and worldly. Justine was described as innocent, gay, and gentle. Victor ignored the letters his family sent to him because he was so focused on his project, demonstrating that his priorities rest in academia, and not in relationships. Unlike Mr. Frankenstein, Justine went back to her mother’s house, despite Mrs. Moritz’s rejection, to take care of her and to try to make amends. Justine highly values personal connections and is forgiving towards her friends and family. In a letter, Elizabeth wrote to Victor, “I recollect you once remarked, that if you were in an ill-humour, one glance from Justine could dissipate it…” Victor took advantage of Justine’s frank-hearted gaiety and did not truly appreciate her while she was