Table of ContentsIntroductionVictor's abandonment of the creatureThe experience of abandonment by the creatureVictor's self-imposed isolationConclusionIntroduction "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley, a seminal work of Gothic literature, is a rich tapestry of themes and motifs that delve into the human condition. Among these, the theme of abandonment is particularly poignant, because it underlines the tragic trajectories of Victor Frankenstein and his Creature. The feeling of abandonment permeates the novel, influencing motivations, actions and ultimately their fate. This essay will analyze key quotes from “Frankenstein” to explore how Shelley uses the theme of abandonment to shape the narrative and elicit empathy from readers. By examining the experiences of Victor and the Creature, we will discover how abandonment functions as a catalyst for the novel's tragic events, highlighting the deep psychological and emotional ramifications of isolation and neglect. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Victor's abandonment of the creature One of the most striking examples of abandonment in "Frankenstein" is Victor's immediate rejection of his creation. After bringing the creature to life, Victor is horrified by its appearance and runs away, leaving the creature to fend for itself. This moment is captured in the quote: “Unable to bear the sight of the being I had created, I rushed from the room” (Shelley, 1818). Victor's abandonment is not only a physical act but also an emotional and moral repudiation. His inability to accept responsibility for his creation sets the stage for the Creature's subsequent misery and violence. This quote summarizes Victor's initial inability to deal with the consequences of his ambition, demonstrating how his abandonment of the Creature is rooted in fear and disgust. The Creature's subsequent experiences of rejection and isolation date back to this pivotal moment, making it a crucial turning point in the narrative. The Creature's experience of abandonment The Creature's journey is marked by a series of rejections that deepen his feelings of abandonment. Despite its initial innocence and desire for companionship, the creature is constantly met with fear and hostility. In a poignant reflection, the Creature laments: “I am malicious because I am miserable; Am I not rejected and hated by all humanity? (Shelley, 1818). This quote encapsulates the Creature's deep sense of isolation and his recognition that his malevolence stems from his abandonment. The Creature's call for understanding and subsequent turn to violence highlights the destructive impact of prolonged neglect. Shelley uses the creature's plight to elicit sympathy from the reader, illustrating how abandonment can corrupt even the most intrinsically good beings. Through this, Shelley critiques societal tendencies to ostracize those who are different, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding. Victor's Self-Imposed Isolation Although Victor's abandonment of the creature is the focus, his own experiences of isolation are also worth examining. Victor's obsessive quest for knowledge and creation leads him to sever ties with his family and friends, resulting in his own form of self-imposed abandonment. He recognizes it in a moment of introspection: “I avoided my fellow men as if I had been guilty of a crime” (Shelley, 1818). Victor's isolation is both a cause and a consequence of his actions, reflecting the destructive nature of his ambition. His detachment.