What Do You Believe The Ultimate Argument Of The Novel Frank

What Do You Believe The Ultimate Argument Of The Novel Frankenstein

What do you believe the ultimate argument of the novel Frankenstein to be? How can we develop this argument as part of a class in serial killer media? As this is the only novel that we'll be reading from the 18th century, how does this older work inform the writings that we have thus far read in class? For me, I think the ultimate argument of the story is that the creature doesn't feel satisfaction that Victor has died and that he has destroyed his entire family.

I think that this could mirror the other serial killers that we have learned about. Temporarily, killing brings them some sort of satisfaction, but long term it doesn't fulfill them and they kill again. The difference with this story is that the creature feels so sorry for himself that he wants to kill himself, which is not what we have seen in our other stories.

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The novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley presents a complex exploration of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of scientific hubris. At its core, the ultimate argument of the novel posits that the unchecked pursuit of knowledge and the neglect of moral responsibility result in destructive outcomes, both for the creator and the creature. Shelley’s narrative underscores the importance of compassion and ethical consideration in scientific endeavors, illustrating that neglect and rejection can lead to devastating consequences. The creature’s tragic trajectory highlights the destructive potential of social alienation and the failure of empathy, emphasizing that neglect and lack of understanding foster violence and despair.

Developing this argument within a class focused on serial killer media allows for a nuanced examination of the psychological and societal factors that lead individuals to commit heinous acts. The comparison between Frankenstein’s creature and social or serial killers reflects a shared origin of suffering—alienation, rejection, and the desire for acknowledgment. Like many serial killers who seek recognition, the creature's violent acts stem from a profound sense of loneliness and a yearning for companionship. Analyzing this through media, such as documentaries, films, and case studies, can foster a deeper understanding of the psychological motivations behind serial killings and question societal responses to such individuals.

Furthermore, Frankenstein’s age—a novel from the 18th century—offers valuable insight into ongoing themes of human nature, ethics, and the limits of scientific progress that continue to resonate today. While contemporary media often sensationalizes serial killers, Shelley’s work provides a foundational perspective on the ethical dilemmas and emotional depths that underpin such phenomena. It informs modern narratives by emphasizing that violence often arises from complex social and psychological issues rather than innate evil, encouraging students to critically engage with media representations of serial violence.

In conclusion, the ultimate argument of Frankenstein—that neglect and irresponsibility lead to destructive outcomes—is highly relevant in the context of serial killer media. It encourages a thoughtful exploration of the roots of violence, the importance of empathy, and the ethical considerations of scientific and societal progress. By integrating the themes of Shelley’s work into discussions of modern media, students can develop a critical understanding of how historical perspectives on human nature continue to shape contemporary portrayals of violence and morality.

References

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