Symbols In Frankenstein

In many novels symbolism functions as a way to reveal much of what is intended for the reader to understand about characters and the work as a whole. Symbols can be ideas, objects, or actions that constitute multiple interpretations or meanings. This is also true for many older novels including Frankenstein. Throughout the gothic fiction novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the use of symbolism and the role it partakes in the entirety of the story signifies its importance. There are many symbols throughout the novel some including light and fire, the creation story, and exploration. The function of these symbols in the story play a pivotal role in how characters are perceived and also the theme of knowledge and the ways in which it influences

The symbol of light is further explored as the novel progresses. The story then moves on to Victor Frankenstein's retelling of the events that occurred in his point of view. On a dreary night in November his creation was complete. “It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open.”(Shelley 43). The dark night and the dreariness of it all juxtaposes with the fact that he has just created life which should be shown in a brighter light than he puts it in. the candlelight and glimmers of light symbolize his state of mind at the time and at the time that his creation is complete nothing seems right anymore. His facade that he was in while making his creation is slowly disappearing and reality is setting in.As the story continues the creatures story is told through a recount by Frankenstein. He begins by stating that,“One day, when I was oppressed by cold, I found a fire... and was overcome with delight at the warmth I experienced from it. In my joy I thrust my hand into the live embers, but quickly drew it out again with a cry of pain. How strange, I thought, that the same cause should produce such opposite effects!” ( Shelley 91). In this novel light is used in multiple ways and is associated

In the letters Robert Walton intels about his journey and goals to his sister. The eagerness that he displays is evident in how he depicts his his journey. He states "I feel my heart glow with an enthusiasm which elevates me to heaven, for nothing contributes so much to tranquilize the mind as a steady purpose — a point on which the soul may fix its intellectual eye."(Shelley 2). This thirst for knowledge and discovery symbolizes the nature of man and how man seeks to learn about the unknown. The field of science is based off of this principle and allows the main characters to further their seek for more even when that with which they are trying to find may not be good for them. Walton later states in his letter"What can stop the determined heart and resolved will of man"(Shelley 8). This search for knowledge and knowing more about the underlyings of the natural world is important and depicts the curious nature of man and