It is not the arrival that matters, but the journey. The experience that is gained from journeys may come to change and mold characters, changing the decisions that may come in the future. Frankenstein has multiple events of travel and journeys that shape the main protagonist and several other characters, as well. In the novel, Shelley uses the physical journeys of Walton and Victor in order to highlight different ambitions, morality, and the overall warning of self destruction within the novel as a whole.
The journey that Walton goes on is one of pure discovery, involving adventure. He seeks glory and recognition to make a change on exploration, geography, helping the influence of his country. “I shall satiate my ardent curiosity with the sight of a part of the world never before visited, and I may tread a land never before imprinted by the foot of man. These are my enticements, and they are sufficient to conquer all fear of danger or death” (Shelley, 15). This was a great deal to the world in the times in eighteenth century. Also, his ambition is not specifically selfish or for the sake of fame for himself. “But success shall crown my endeavours. Wherefore not? Thus far I have gone, tracing a secure way over the pathless seas, the very stars themselves being witnesses and testimonies of my triumph.” (Shelley, 82). This letter further demonstrates Captain Walton’s ambition for seeking pure knowledge.
The character of Victor endeavors through his journey in order to find