Literature is full of heroes and villains. Sometimes the main character in a play or story exhibits traits of both. The tragic hero in literature is defined as “a literary character who commits an error of judgment or exhibits a fatal flaw which, combined with fate and external forces, causes tragedy” (tragic hero). William McCollom confirms this definition and adds that a tragic hero is a superhuman who suffers greatly because of his flaw (52). Additionally, his bad behavior is believable in that it is not entirely good or entirely bad. Finally, the hero learns from his mistakes (McCollom 53). “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley is an example of these classic literary works. Certainly, his gothic demon in "Frankenstein" is a monster by anyone's definition: eight feet tall, black lips, yellow skin and a murderer of innocents. However, considering the opposing view, Shelley develops Frankenstein's creature to exhibit characteristics that align him with a tragic hero. First of all, the reader will discover in the novel that the creature only wants to benefit society and be accepted by its creator. Victor Frankenstein. The demon explains in the story that he was only looking to reach out and make a connection with Victor in his laboratory in Ingolstadt. But he leaves the house rejected and lives in the forest. Confusion and despair are his only companions as he learns to understand his body and its signals during these first days. Later, the creature persuades Victor to hear his story by reminding him that while he was vulnerable and ill-equipped to deal with life, Frankenstein abandoned him. The demon then reveals all of his good deeds and how much he craves society's acceptance. He says, "Believe me, Franke... middle of paper... (Foster). In conclusion, Mary Shelley, the author of “Frankenstein”, has indeed given her monster certain characteristics that make him a tragic hero. At the beginning of the story, he only wants to be accepted and loved by humanity. He contributes to society and tries to improve the lives of individuals. The creature suffers anguish and difficulties during its life. However, these good deeds and his desperation, ultimately, do not make up for his bad decision to commit murder. Although he blames Victor and humanity for leaving him no options, in the end the creature laments his decisions, his bad actions, and Victor's death. He learned from his misdeeds. The demon leaves Walton's ship swearing that he will commit suicide because he no longer wants to live under torture. This final statement from the creature is exactly what one would expect from a classic tragic hero..