Themes of Rejection in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein Free Essay Example

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Victor and the Monster: A Complex Interplay of Rejection

At the heart of Frankenstein lies the tumultuous relationship between Victor and the Monster, epitomizing the theme of rejection.

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Victor, consumed by an obsessive desire to conquer death and create life, embarks on a scientific experiment that leads to the birth of the Monster. However, the repercussions of this creation result in Victor's rejection of his own progeny. The quote, "The different accidents of life are not so changeable as the feelings of human nature" (pg. 42), encapsulates the profound impact of human nature on Victor's actions.

Victor's initial passion for scientific exploration turns into madness, leading him to disown and reject the Monster he brought to life.

This rejection becomes a pivotal force driving the Monster's narrative, as he grapples with the pain of abandonment and seeks solace in a society that proves equally ruthless in its rejection. The Monster, a creature of unparalleled appearance, becomes a symbol of societal aversion to the unconventional and the 'ugly.'

Societal Norms and the Rejection of the Unusual

The theme of rejection extends beyond the personal dynamics of Victor and the Monster to encompass broader societal norms. Shelley adeptly critiques the human tendency to reject the unfamiliar, portraying a society quick to judge based on appearance.

When the Monster, seeking shelter and protection, approaches the village, he is met with instant rejection. The villagers, driven by fear and prejudice, deny him the basic human kindness of understanding and acceptance.

Shelley uses the Monster's plight to underscore a universal truth about human behavior – the rejection of what is perceived as abnormal or strange. This rejection stems from societal expectations and an unyielding standard that demands conformity. The novel challenges readers to reflect on their own predispositions towards those who deviate from established norms, prompting an examination of the consequences of rejecting the 'other.'

Societal Rejection and the Plight of the DeLacy Family

The rejection theme takes a poignant turn with the narrative of the DeLacy family. Felix DeLacy's act of freeing Safie's father from unjust imprisonment exemplifies a defiance of societal wrongs. However, this act of compassion ultimately leads to the family's downfall. Society, driven by its own prejudices and avarice, accepts the DeLacy's only as long as they maintain their wealth and social status. Once financial ruin befalls them, society promptly rejects the family, highlighting the fickle nature of societal acceptance.

The plight of the DeLacy family becomes a microcosm of broader societal attitudes towards the poor, the kind-hearted, and the 'unique.' Frankenstein unveils a harsh reality – society, driven by its own biases, often turns a blind eye to those in need or those who deviate from established norms. Rejection becomes a mechanism to maintain societal order, even at the expense of empathy and compassion.

Conclusion: The Pervasive Impact of Rejection

In conclusion, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein masterfully explores the pervasive theme of rejection, weaving it into the intricate fabric of the narrative. From the personal dynamics between Victor and the Monster to the broader societal rejection of the unfamiliar and the consequences faced by the DeLacy family, the novel serves as a poignant commentary on human nature and societal norms. The rejection depicted in Frankenstein challenges readers to reflect on their own biases, urging a reconsideration of societal expectations and fostering empathy towards the 'other.'