"Hester's strong, calm, steadfastly enduring spirit almost sank, at last, on beholding this drk and grim countenance of an inevitable doom, which-at the moment when a passage seemed to open for the minister and herself out of their labyrinth of misery-showed itself, with an unrelenting smile, right in the midst of their path." Pg. 189
I personally found some literary and character parallels in the character of Chillingworth and the creature from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. One of the main similarities points out the transformation from innocence and morality to evil and misery. Just as the creature is wronged by society and consequently kills the loved ones of his creator, Victor, so too does Chillingworth decide to torment the lover of his ex-wife when he learns of their affair. This torment is also a marked similarity between the two stories. Chillingworth feels wronged by the affair of his wife, but he never utilizes the knowledge he has of her lover to hurt her further than the scarlet letter has already done. This could possibly be because she did not wrong him any more after her public disgrace. The creature, on the other hand, forcefully used his power over Victor to enact great misery and torture on the man. The two stories also contrast when it comes to the falling action of the plot. In Frankenstein, Victor chases the creture with futility until he dies with his goal unfulfilled and the creature committing suicide. The Scarlet Letter differs from this story because the characters being tormented attempt to escape the grasp Chillingworth holds over them by revealing themselves to the crowd. The falling action is very short in this story, as Dimmesdale dies almost immediately afterwards, and his death leaves questions regarding the towns perception of him and Hester.
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Scarlet Letter: Forgiveness
"'There might be good for thee, and thee alone, since thou hast been deeply wronged, and hast it at thy will to pardon. Wilt thou give up that only privelege? Wilt thou reject that priceless benefit?'" Pg. 133
The first half of this novel caused me to think that admonishment and vengeance would be the norm throughout the whole book. I read about Hester's public humiliation, the physician trying through shady means get Dimmesdale to reveal his wrongs, and Dimmesdale contending with physical illness and mental struggle. However, through the second half of this book, I have come to know that the spirit of forgivness is just as equally represented, which I find uplifting, since no community is devoid of this quality. Even in the strict moral days of pre-colonial Puritan settlement, people found it in their hearts to absolve the well-repented sins of others. This quote displays some of that forgiveness, and by Hester nonetheless. She explains to Chillingworth that she understands his desire to act treacherously towards Dimmesdale because he was wronged by the man nearly eight years earlier when they had their affair. So too do the people of the town show forgivness and compassion. On page 188, the narrator says how the Puritans "were none the less inclined to pronounce the child a demon offspring..." I think the people realize that Hester has paid her dues by wearing around her letter without protest for many years and has largely stayed clear of the public eye.
The first half of this novel caused me to think that admonishment and vengeance would be the norm throughout the whole book. I read about Hester's public humiliation, the physician trying through shady means get Dimmesdale to reveal his wrongs, and Dimmesdale contending with physical illness and mental struggle. However, through the second half of this book, I have come to know that the spirit of forgivness is just as equally represented, which I find uplifting, since no community is devoid of this quality. Even in the strict moral days of pre-colonial Puritan settlement, people found it in their hearts to absolve the well-repented sins of others. This quote displays some of that forgiveness, and by Hester nonetheless. She explains to Chillingworth that she understands his desire to act treacherously towards Dimmesdale because he was wronged by the man nearly eight years earlier when they had their affair. So too do the people of the town show forgivness and compassion. On page 188, the narrator says how the Puritans "were none the less inclined to pronounce the child a demon offspring..." I think the people realize that Hester has paid her dues by wearing around her letter without protest for many years and has largely stayed clear of the public eye.
The Scarlet Letter: Stream of Consciousness
"That self was gone. Another man had returned out of the forest: a wiser one; with a knowledge of hidden mysteris which the simplicity of the former never could have reached. A bitter kind of knowledge that!" Pg. 172
The entirety of the chapter titled "The Minister in a Maze" reveals the physical and mental journey of Arthur Dimmesdale as he makes his way back to town from out of the woods. Hawthorne devoted an entire chapter to this journey because it marks a significant change in the personality of the minister. Interestingly, the chapter before also gives a glimpse of a very similar transformation, except by Hester. During this chapter, the minsiter becomes much less focused on his hypocrisy and more focused on the fact that he loves Hester and so must form more mortal, immoral thoughts that befit the mind of the common man. He thinks about cursing out young children and chastizing sailors for their licentious lives. Just as the scarlet letter makes the truth more clear to Hester that she loves Arthur and so must reveal their secret, the walk through the forest infuses the minister with confidence because the path before him, however unpleasant, is spelled out clearly. I do not think that this chapter simply sets the plot up for the revelation and the falling action, however. I think Hawthorne was trying to convey to the reader a theme or lesson that no person is infallible, and the more we hide or suppress our faults, the more powerfully they burst forth when we are put into testing situations.
The entirety of the chapter titled "The Minister in a Maze" reveals the physical and mental journey of Arthur Dimmesdale as he makes his way back to town from out of the woods. Hawthorne devoted an entire chapter to this journey because it marks a significant change in the personality of the minister. Interestingly, the chapter before also gives a glimpse of a very similar transformation, except by Hester. During this chapter, the minsiter becomes much less focused on his hypocrisy and more focused on the fact that he loves Hester and so must form more mortal, immoral thoughts that befit the mind of the common man. He thinks about cursing out young children and chastizing sailors for their licentious lives. Just as the scarlet letter makes the truth more clear to Hester that she loves Arthur and so must reveal their secret, the walk through the forest infuses the minister with confidence because the path before him, however unpleasant, is spelled out clearly. I do not think that this chapter simply sets the plot up for the revelation and the falling action, however. I think Hawthorne was trying to convey to the reader a theme or lesson that no person is infallible, and the more we hide or suppress our faults, the more powerfully they burst forth when we are put into testing situations.
The Scarlet Letter: Connotation
"The child turned her eyes to the point indicated; and there lay the scarlet letter, so close upon the margin of the stream, that the gold embroidery was reflected in it." Pg. 162
An argument could almost be made that the scarlet letter acts as a dynamic character in this novel along with Hester and Dimmesdale. Indeed, the piece of fabric has an evolution throughout the work, because its connotation to Hester, Pearl, and the townspeople changes over the course of time and events. I will attempt to give my explanation of each evolution as I read them in the pages of this book. For Hester, the scarlet letter will always be a reminder of her affair with Dimmesdale and the public shame she must consequently endure. However, this quote above shows that the letter was also an instrument to her development, even if it was delayed. Over time the letter taught her that she could not be defined by it alone and that she truly loved Arthur regardless of the scrutiny such a relationship would cause. While it constantly admonished her, it also infused a confidence in Hester. For Pearl, the letter serves as her chief source of inquiry and entertainment. Because she lives away from the rest of the town with her mother, she is only exposed to adult behavior and quickly picks up on the differences in behavior her mom exhibits when in contact with the town. The letter is dynamic to Pearl because as a small child it was once normal but it grows into an obvious conspicous sign to her. For the townspeople, the letter represents their strict moral beliefs, but it also gives them the opportunity to develop forgiveness. Over time, they treat Hester less harshly and even begin to consider her a distinguishing mark for their town. Once chiefly important, the letter fades into the back of their minds.
An argument could almost be made that the scarlet letter acts as a dynamic character in this novel along with Hester and Dimmesdale. Indeed, the piece of fabric has an evolution throughout the work, because its connotation to Hester, Pearl, and the townspeople changes over the course of time and events. I will attempt to give my explanation of each evolution as I read them in the pages of this book. For Hester, the scarlet letter will always be a reminder of her affair with Dimmesdale and the public shame she must consequently endure. However, this quote above shows that the letter was also an instrument to her development, even if it was delayed. Over time the letter taught her that she could not be defined by it alone and that she truly loved Arthur regardless of the scrutiny such a relationship would cause. While it constantly admonished her, it also infused a confidence in Hester. For Pearl, the letter serves as her chief source of inquiry and entertainment. Because she lives away from the rest of the town with her mother, she is only exposed to adult behavior and quickly picks up on the differences in behavior her mom exhibits when in contact with the town. The letter is dynamic to Pearl because as a small child it was once normal but it grows into an obvious conspicous sign to her. For the townspeople, the letter represents their strict moral beliefs, but it also gives them the opportunity to develop forgiveness. Over time, they treat Hester less harshly and even begin to consider her a distinguishing mark for their town. Once chiefly important, the letter fades into the back of their minds.
The Scarlet Letter: Epithet
"There was a witchcraft in little Pearl's eyes, and her face, as she glanced upwards at the minister, wore that naughty smile that made its expression frequently so elfish." Pg. 118
When characters such as Hester and Dimmesdale began associating Pearl as being elfish, I simply thought they meant her physical appearance. She is most likely a petite young girl with some mature facial features, so the elf comparison fits. However, these same characters continue to describe her as such all the way until the end of the book, which caused me to take note of this use of epithet. The thought of an elf not only conjures up images of pointed ears and green suits but also distinct character traits such as a mischevious demeanor and a penchant for uncovering the secrets of others. I soon found how appropriate the adjective is for little Pearl, because she constantly questions the relationship between Dimmesdale and Hester in an attempt to reveal the secret behind their connected pasts. She finds, through pestering Hester, that both she and Arthur have been touched by the Black Man, and so connects their sins. I also found it interesting how she acted like an elf when it came to having Arhtur kiss her. She appears very precocious when she refuses to kiss him in the woods but then appears to have the great desire to kiss him in public at the end of the book. To me, it seems as though the mystery behind her mother's affair serves as a sort of entertainment for Pearl, because she is able to characterize, piece by piece, the actions of the adults which have led to the present.
When characters such as Hester and Dimmesdale began associating Pearl as being elfish, I simply thought they meant her physical appearance. She is most likely a petite young girl with some mature facial features, so the elf comparison fits. However, these same characters continue to describe her as such all the way until the end of the book, which caused me to take note of this use of epithet. The thought of an elf not only conjures up images of pointed ears and green suits but also distinct character traits such as a mischevious demeanor and a penchant for uncovering the secrets of others. I soon found how appropriate the adjective is for little Pearl, because she constantly questions the relationship between Dimmesdale and Hester in an attempt to reveal the secret behind their connected pasts. She finds, through pestering Hester, that both she and Arthur have been touched by the Black Man, and so connects their sins. I also found it interesting how she acted like an elf when it came to having Arhtur kiss her. She appears very precocious when she refuses to kiss him in the woods but then appears to have the great desire to kiss him in public at the end of the book. To me, it seems as though the mystery behind her mother's affair serves as a sort of entertainment for Pearl, because she is able to characterize, piece by piece, the actions of the adults which have led to the present.
Monday, April 23, 2012
The Scarlet Letter: Dimmesdale and Chillingworth
"'Yet some men bury their secrets thus,' observed the calm physician." Pg. 101
The above quote is a great representation of the measures people will go to to clear themselves when their backs are against the wall. Chillingworth, having been previously discovered to be a doctor of questionable trainind and accused of being the devil incarnate, makes a play towards the clergyman Dimmesdale in order to find fault in the man and remove his name from public notoriety and press. Just as the strong lacing of morality and religion dominates the first half of the book, the theme of fear of evil also presents itself in chapters nine and ten and I find it quite interesting. It is interesting because the townspeople do not know what the devil looks like, and so could never actually, definitively prove its palpable existence among man. I find it funny how the people are driven to fear and pandemonium over speculation and frenzy that are sensationalized by the leaders. It is quite sad really that they are so ignorant to the fact that a divine beign cannot actually be living through a person. Mind you that Salem was the town in which the witch trials took place. These people do not know what to think without having someone to blame the smallest faults on. Unfortunately for these two men, it is figures of prominence or those with private lives who seem to get the most speculation.
The above quote is a great representation of the measures people will go to to clear themselves when their backs are against the wall. Chillingworth, having been previously discovered to be a doctor of questionable trainind and accused of being the devil incarnate, makes a play towards the clergyman Dimmesdale in order to find fault in the man and remove his name from public notoriety and press. Just as the strong lacing of morality and religion dominates the first half of the book, the theme of fear of evil also presents itself in chapters nine and ten and I find it quite interesting. It is interesting because the townspeople do not know what the devil looks like, and so could never actually, definitively prove its palpable existence among man. I find it funny how the people are driven to fear and pandemonium over speculation and frenzy that are sensationalized by the leaders. It is quite sad really that they are so ignorant to the fact that a divine beign cannot actually be living through a person. Mind you that Salem was the town in which the witch trials took place. These people do not know what to think without having someone to blame the smallest faults on. Unfortunately for these two men, it is figures of prominence or those with private lives who seem to get the most speculation.
The Scarlet Letter: Pearl
"'He did not send me! cried she, positively. 'I have no Heavenly Father!'" Pg. 74
I believe the inclusion of Pearl in the novel definitely gives it more depth, but also adds to the melancholy and perpetually bitter state of Heter. I personally find it sad that Hester has reserved herself to the fact that she must live a separate life from the village and she is self-conscious everywhere she goes because of the scarlet letter. I almost feel like Hawthorne over-uses the phrase and the image in order to press into the reader's mind the plight she is embroiled in. The inclusion of Pearl does not help the situation. Although the author explains that Pearl's name is such because she does not have the same iniquities of her mother, Hester constantly sees her past wrongful actions portrayed in the child. Besides seeing the devil in the child, she also notes how Pearl is very outgoing and defiant when in conflict with others. She believes these are the traits that led her to sin, and she understandably does not want her daughter to emulate these actions. I feel like Hawthorne should include some more action on the part of Hester to break the situation she is in. I may be getting ahead of myself, and that resolution is to come later in the book, but for the first half she mostly accepts the gloominess and hopelessness as a way of life, and it is depressing.
I believe the inclusion of Pearl in the novel definitely gives it more depth, but also adds to the melancholy and perpetually bitter state of Heter. I personally find it sad that Hester has reserved herself to the fact that she must live a separate life from the village and she is self-conscious everywhere she goes because of the scarlet letter. I almost feel like Hawthorne over-uses the phrase and the image in order to press into the reader's mind the plight she is embroiled in. The inclusion of Pearl does not help the situation. Although the author explains that Pearl's name is such because she does not have the same iniquities of her mother, Hester constantly sees her past wrongful actions portrayed in the child. Besides seeing the devil in the child, she also notes how Pearl is very outgoing and defiant when in conflict with others. She believes these are the traits that led her to sin, and she understandably does not want her daughter to emulate these actions. I feel like Hawthorne should include some more action on the part of Hester to break the situation she is in. I may be getting ahead of myself, and that resolution is to come later in the book, but for the first half she mostly accepts the gloominess and hopelessness as a way of life, and it is depressing.
The Scarlet Letter: Didactic
"...and she saw that, owing tot he peculiear effect of this convex mirror, the scarlet letter wasw represented in exaggerated and gigantic proportions, so as to be greatly the most prominent feature of her appearance. In truth, she seemed absolutely hidden behind it." Pg. 80
I would be remiss if I didn't include this literary term in a novel such as this. I mean, the main storyline and dominant theme throughout the book emphasizes the care with which one should act, because the public will find out what happens and it could open the individual up for ridicule. Hester Prynne demonstrates that theme better than anyone else because she must indure the public shame brought on by wearing her scarlet letter. However, I am choosing to take a slightly different approach as to what the novel is trying to convey morality-wise to the reader. During the introduction, the narrator tells the reader that the time period in which the main story takes place is one of strict beliefs. During this time, morality and religion are sewn extremely tightly together. Every action must comply with the Puritanical way of living, and if it doesn't, as in Hester's case, then the punishments can be severe. Moral standards have loosened since then, but the unrelenting ridicule she must endure leaves me wondering whether Hawthorne used the story to caution the public against acting too sanctimonious and pious. He probably did not want to see the sanity of a woman like Hester's to be polluted by the public's overly condescending tendencies again.
I would be remiss if I didn't include this literary term in a novel such as this. I mean, the main storyline and dominant theme throughout the book emphasizes the care with which one should act, because the public will find out what happens and it could open the individual up for ridicule. Hester Prynne demonstrates that theme better than anyone else because she must indure the public shame brought on by wearing her scarlet letter. However, I am choosing to take a slightly different approach as to what the novel is trying to convey morality-wise to the reader. During the introduction, the narrator tells the reader that the time period in which the main story takes place is one of strict beliefs. During this time, morality and religion are sewn extremely tightly together. Every action must comply with the Puritanical way of living, and if it doesn't, as in Hester's case, then the punishments can be severe. Moral standards have loosened since then, but the unrelenting ridicule she must endure leaves me wondering whether Hawthorne used the story to caution the public against acting too sanctimonious and pious. He probably did not want to see the sanity of a woman like Hester's to be polluted by the public's overly condescending tendencies again.
The Scarlet Letter: Metaphor
"The soil where this dark miner was working had perchance shown indications that encouraged him." Pg. 99
Along with apostrophe, this novel also employs the use of metaphors, chiefly to describe the individuals and their actions and suspected thoughts. I suppose for this reason, the metaphors could be closely connected with the indirect characterization which Hawthorne utilizes to describe his characters. This tag-team, if you will, can be seen during the scene of public display when Hester Prynne is said to have a distorted face "as if a snake had twisted across it" when she views Mr. Chillingworth. So too does this quote help to characterize Chillingworth, because he is one to dig into the personal life of Dimmesdale when he suspects Dimmesdale has something to do with the public shame of Hester Prynne. When I thought about why Hawthorne might employ such a tactic so frequently, I found myself drawn back to the introduction when the narrator confessed his sympathies to the reader for the not-so-adept portrayal of the work he happened upon. Hawthorne possibly utilized metaphors on behalf of this narrator in order to greater characterize the main plot individuals in a way that would seem fitting to the unrefined style of the narrator. He probably also used metaphors because they portray the inner workings of the characters' minds. In these pre-colonial days when few people could read or write, they only had the world around them to compare themselves and others to.
Along with apostrophe, this novel also employs the use of metaphors, chiefly to describe the individuals and their actions and suspected thoughts. I suppose for this reason, the metaphors could be closely connected with the indirect characterization which Hawthorne utilizes to describe his characters. This tag-team, if you will, can be seen during the scene of public display when Hester Prynne is said to have a distorted face "as if a snake had twisted across it" when she views Mr. Chillingworth. So too does this quote help to characterize Chillingworth, because he is one to dig into the personal life of Dimmesdale when he suspects Dimmesdale has something to do with the public shame of Hester Prynne. When I thought about why Hawthorne might employ such a tactic so frequently, I found myself drawn back to the introduction when the narrator confessed his sympathies to the reader for the not-so-adept portrayal of the work he happened upon. Hawthorne possibly utilized metaphors on behalf of this narrator in order to greater characterize the main plot individuals in a way that would seem fitting to the unrefined style of the narrator. He probably also used metaphors because they portray the inner workings of the characters' minds. In these pre-colonial days when few people could read or write, they only had the world around them to compare themselves and others to.
The Scarlet Letter: Apostrophe
"'Come away, mother! Come away, or yonder old Black Man will catch you!'" Pg. 103
Throughout the first half of this novel, I noticed the use of apostrophe and how it is connected closely with the strict morality in which the Puritan town believes in. Just as the townspeople and, shown here, Pearl think of the devil as an actual being and describe him as such, so does Hester view herself with her own-self condemnation and harshness. The interesting part of the use of apostrophe to advance the plot in novels like this is that the entity being described is neither present nor can ever be seen. However, this same entity has almost supreme control and power over the many characters of the book. Hester believe that because of her sin that Pearl is the devil incarnate in her own daughter. She sees her as her ever-constant reminder of the transgressions which have put her in this situation. In a sense, the way she views the devil and her sins in her own daughter closely parallels the actual sins themselves. They are not physical beings that can be seen or felt. They can be described and obviously condemned, but ultimately the sin is between the character, the co-sinner, and a divine being like God, or in this case, the devil.
Throughout the first half of this novel, I noticed the use of apostrophe and how it is connected closely with the strict morality in which the Puritan town believes in. Just as the townspeople and, shown here, Pearl think of the devil as an actual being and describe him as such, so does Hester view herself with her own-self condemnation and harshness. The interesting part of the use of apostrophe to advance the plot in novels like this is that the entity being described is neither present nor can ever be seen. However, this same entity has almost supreme control and power over the many characters of the book. Hester believe that because of her sin that Pearl is the devil incarnate in her own daughter. She sees her as her ever-constant reminder of the transgressions which have put her in this situation. In a sense, the way she views the devil and her sins in her own daughter closely parallels the actual sins themselves. They are not physical beings that can be seen or felt. They can be described and obviously condemned, but ultimately the sin is between the character, the co-sinner, and a divine being like God, or in this case, the devil.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Archetypal Conflict
"'I would willingly afford you every aid in your pursuit; but the creature of whom you speak appears to have powers which would put all my exertions to defiance.'"
"'...and no one can conjecture to what place he has wandered, or what region he may now inhabit.'" Pg. 148
Why does every piece of "classic literature" have to end with people dying voluntarily and half-way resolving their conflicts but leaving just enough hint of the conflict to have the reader frustrated? When I read the above quote and realized that Victor would not be receiving any help from the authorities in his pursuit, I immediately looked for the definition of an archetype, because this passage displays it perfectly. It seems like so many pieces of literary merit pit a far superior character, whether it be physical or mental, against an opponent who has no chance of succeeding. Upon reading of the magistrate's refusal, I instantly knew how the story would end. I could guess very accurately that Victor would not catch or kill the creature, the creature would kill himself out of hopelessness, and Victor would die on the ship. This book contains some relavant truths and very challenging moral dilemmas. However, I just want a book deemed of literary merit to end in some kind of action-packed conflict in which there is no dramatic irony or ignorance. I want a fight for the principles each character has established throughout the book without any imparity. Each side should be equally competent and able. I am not saying I would like everyone to die dramatically or hug and make up. Nevertheless, I know the conflicts being presented, and I can make my own decision as to the stance I wish to take. As for the book, it should include a more definite resolution of fate, and not such a flimsy one.
"'...and no one can conjecture to what place he has wandered, or what region he may now inhabit.'" Pg. 148
Why does every piece of "classic literature" have to end with people dying voluntarily and half-way resolving their conflicts but leaving just enough hint of the conflict to have the reader frustrated? When I read the above quote and realized that Victor would not be receiving any help from the authorities in his pursuit, I immediately looked for the definition of an archetype, because this passage displays it perfectly. It seems like so many pieces of literary merit pit a far superior character, whether it be physical or mental, against an opponent who has no chance of succeeding. Upon reading of the magistrate's refusal, I instantly knew how the story would end. I could guess very accurately that Victor would not catch or kill the creature, the creature would kill himself out of hopelessness, and Victor would die on the ship. This book contains some relavant truths and very challenging moral dilemmas. However, I just want a book deemed of literary merit to end in some kind of action-packed conflict in which there is no dramatic irony or ignorance. I want a fight for the principles each character has established throughout the book without any imparity. Each side should be equally competent and able. I am not saying I would like everyone to die dramatically or hug and make up. Nevertheless, I know the conflicts being presented, and I can make my own decision as to the stance I wish to take. As for the book, it should include a more definite resolution of fate, and not such a flimsy one.
Health
"...but I have endured misery, which nothing but the eternal sentiment of a just retribution burning within my heart could have enabled me to support." Pg. 153
Since the beginning of the novel, readers have been acquainted with the physical stamina of Victor during the pursuit of his various convictions or passions. Just as when he goes into a shock after the creature is created and when he discovers Clerval murdered, Victor endures these times of physical exertion and pays them no attention when focusing his efforts on his current devotions. Victor, in fact, mentions many times how he is pushed to the limits of his physical ability, but he never succombs to the exertion until he is old, frail, and weakened by time and stress. The packet and outline for this book mentions the significance of health in this book, and how it affects the action and motivation of the characters. Because Victor is tested many times to his physical limits and emerges victorious over his limits, the physical portion of his health becomes less important than the mental aspect (not to say that he is not valiant in his endurance). However, what Victor truly seeks in his pursuit of the creature is peace of mind, which could also mean sound mental health. In this way, mental health becomes much more important than physical health. Although it may seem obvious, the longing for mental health and its inability to be obtained lead to the death of the creature and Victor.
Since the beginning of the novel, readers have been acquainted with the physical stamina of Victor during the pursuit of his various convictions or passions. Just as when he goes into a shock after the creature is created and when he discovers Clerval murdered, Victor endures these times of physical exertion and pays them no attention when focusing his efforts on his current devotions. Victor, in fact, mentions many times how he is pushed to the limits of his physical ability, but he never succombs to the exertion until he is old, frail, and weakened by time and stress. The packet and outline for this book mentions the significance of health in this book, and how it affects the action and motivation of the characters. Because Victor is tested many times to his physical limits and emerges victorious over his limits, the physical portion of his health becomes less important than the mental aspect (not to say that he is not valiant in his endurance). However, what Victor truly seeks in his pursuit of the creature is peace of mind, which could also mean sound mental health. In this way, mental health becomes much more important than physical health. Although it may seem obvious, the longing for mental health and its inability to be obtained lead to the death of the creature and Victor.
Antagonist
"I knew that I was preparing myself for a deadly torture; but I was the slave, not the master, of an impulse, which I detested, yet could not disobey. Yet when she died!- nay then I was not miserable. I had cast off all feeling, subdued all alnguish, to riot in the excess of my despair. Evil thenceforth became my good." Pg. 164
Alright, I have to give Mary Shelley credit on crafting a novel in which every argument to be made against the actions of one character is balanced against sympathy for that character due to his circumstances. This dilemma presented itself to me several times when I contemplated the creature's actions and motives. However, I make my stance known that the creature is most definitely the antagonist in this work. He blocks the actions of Victor by causing him worry over his impending actioins, and gives him dispair when he kills off the people whom Victor so dearly loves. This conclusion is slightly hard to come by, because Shelley conjures up a sympathy for the creature throughout the story. I truly feel sorry for the creature when he explains his only wish of a companion because he cannot speak to man without man's terror consuming the situation. Towards the end of the novel, the creature returns and expresses his regret and guilt for having indirectly killed Victor. He explains how "evil became his good" and he had no remorse for killing. Although his feelings of revenge were severe, the monster is most definitely the antagonist because he chose the easier route. He could have lived in solitude and avoided man for the rest of his life. By doing so, he rejects the possibility of finding happiness. Although this prospect is grim, the alternative, which actually transpires, leaves many people dead and both Victor and the creature exhausted and dead. Perhaps the creature could have been considered a moral character had he accepted his very grim fate.
Alright, I have to give Mary Shelley credit on crafting a novel in which every argument to be made against the actions of one character is balanced against sympathy for that character due to his circumstances. This dilemma presented itself to me several times when I contemplated the creature's actions and motives. However, I make my stance known that the creature is most definitely the antagonist in this work. He blocks the actions of Victor by causing him worry over his impending actioins, and gives him dispair when he kills off the people whom Victor so dearly loves. This conclusion is slightly hard to come by, because Shelley conjures up a sympathy for the creature throughout the story. I truly feel sorry for the creature when he explains his only wish of a companion because he cannot speak to man without man's terror consuming the situation. Towards the end of the novel, the creature returns and expresses his regret and guilt for having indirectly killed Victor. He explains how "evil became his good" and he had no remorse for killing. Although his feelings of revenge were severe, the monster is most definitely the antagonist because he chose the easier route. He could have lived in solitude and avoided man for the rest of his life. By doing so, he rejects the possibility of finding happiness. Although this prospect is grim, the alternative, which actually transpires, leaves many people dead and both Victor and the creature exhausted and dead. Perhaps the creature could have been considered a moral character had he accepted his very grim fate.
Characterization
"My duties towards the being of my own species had greater claims to my attention, because they included a greater proportion of happiness or misery. Urged by this view, I refused, and I did right in refusing, to create a companion for the first creature." Pg. 161
I believe I am receiving flashbacks to Shakespearean drama. I say this when considering the character of Victor and his actions throughout the novel. I immediately asked myself if Victor possesses the qualities to be considered a tragic hero, and so brought back images of the plays of our favorite fifteenth-century author. Victor certainly displays a thirst for revenge that leads him across a continent and into an environment which ultimately kills him. Not only the environment, but his distress and worry eventually weigh upon him, and he succombs to the mental demands of coping with his creation. I do not think Victor possesses the qualities which constitute a tragic hero, but I do believe he is bound throughout the book by one common trait: his passion. I say he is not a tragic hero mainly because his desire for revenge is prompted by the creature's actions. Although, as the above quote proves, Victor indirectly causes the creature to act nefariously, he does not carry an ardent desire for vengeance throughout the entire novel. However, he does display a passion for his current undertaking, whether it be the creation of the creature, his marriage, or his pursuit of justice. To describe Victor in short, I would say he is a man who intensely devotes himself to his work and his family. His work turns on him, and he is therefore required to choose between duty to his family and duty to the creature. So, Victor is a round character who was forced into being such by his own creation.
I believe I am receiving flashbacks to Shakespearean drama. I say this when considering the character of Victor and his actions throughout the novel. I immediately asked myself if Victor possesses the qualities to be considered a tragic hero, and so brought back images of the plays of our favorite fifteenth-century author. Victor certainly displays a thirst for revenge that leads him across a continent and into an environment which ultimately kills him. Not only the environment, but his distress and worry eventually weigh upon him, and he succombs to the mental demands of coping with his creation. I do not think Victor possesses the qualities which constitute a tragic hero, but I do believe he is bound throughout the book by one common trait: his passion. I say he is not a tragic hero mainly because his desire for revenge is prompted by the creature's actions. Although, as the above quote proves, Victor indirectly causes the creature to act nefariously, he does not carry an ardent desire for vengeance throughout the entire novel. However, he does display a passion for his current undertaking, whether it be the creation of the creature, his marriage, or his pursuit of justice. To describe Victor in short, I would say he is a man who intensely devotes himself to his work and his family. His work turns on him, and he is therefore required to choose between duty to his family and duty to the creature. So, Victor is a round character who was forced into being such by his own creation.
Frame Story
"Frankenstein discovered that I made notes concerning his history: he asked to see them, and then himself corrected and augmented them in many places; but principally in giving the life and spirit to the conversations he held with his enemy. 'Since you have preserved my narration,' said he,'I would not that a mutilated one should go down to posterity.'" Pg. 156
One of the main features of this novel, and certainly one that makes it somewhat unique among classic literary pieces, is the use of frame stories by Shelley to progress through the stories. I personally found the frame stories useful and refreshing, because a character would narrate for forty to fifty pages, and then another one of the primary characters would take over. This element broke up the work and made it not so monotonous. Also, the reader comes to know the feelings of each creature quite well during this book, and at times the emotions of the people dominated the content and action of the novel. However, Shelley employs another tactic which also forms a more coherent work, which is the repitition of phrases or themes in each frame story. Interestingly, Walton, Victor, and the creature all at one point during their narration express the desire for knowledge and understanding. Walton seeks it in his travels, Victor seeks enlightenment to create a living being, and the creature seeks understanding of language to lessen his odious appearance. Shelley also repeats phrases such as the "gigantic stature" of the creature and its inhuman form when humans behold it in the shadows. These elements tie the frame stories together and create a more memorable work.
One of the main features of this novel, and certainly one that makes it somewhat unique among classic literary pieces, is the use of frame stories by Shelley to progress through the stories. I personally found the frame stories useful and refreshing, because a character would narrate for forty to fifty pages, and then another one of the primary characters would take over. This element broke up the work and made it not so monotonous. Also, the reader comes to know the feelings of each creature quite well during this book, and at times the emotions of the people dominated the content and action of the novel. However, Shelley employs another tactic which also forms a more coherent work, which is the repitition of phrases or themes in each frame story. Interestingly, Walton, Victor, and the creature all at one point during their narration express the desire for knowledge and understanding. Walton seeks it in his travels, Victor seeks enlightenment to create a living being, and the creature seeks understanding of language to lessen his odious appearance. Shelley also repeats phrases such as the "gigantic stature" of the creature and its inhuman form when humans behold it in the shadows. These elements tie the frame stories together and create a more memorable work.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Right to a Fair Trial
"Everywhere I see bliss, from which I alone am irrevocably excluded. I was benevolent and good; misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, nad I shall again be virtuous." Pg. 69
The topic was discussed yesterday regarding the innoncence of Justine and the creature against the evidence to suggest either one killed William. As the creature begins to recount his life since his animation, he never admits to committing the crime but presents the reader with some interesting pieces of information on which he/she can deduce their judgment. Although I have not fully read the entirety of the creature's recollections, I have come to contend that he did not kill Victor's brother William. I do not wish to persuade any reader to join my side, mostly because a counterargument to this stance would be just as valid. It is my opinion based on the mental characterization of the creature and his experiences with other humans. Towards the end of chapter twelve, the creature expounds upon the interactions he witnesses while hiding the the shed next to the cottage in the mountains. The care and compassion that Agatha, Felix, and the father demonstrated towards each other in the face of their poverty moved the creature and he found himself wanting to assist them in their struggles. This experience and his desire to help them out and learn their language came before the murder of William. So, I personally believe that the creature would be bolstered and inspired by the interactions here despite his earlier unpleasant humanly interactions. If he had exclusively known sorrow, as he states above, then I could understand his desire to get back at his creator by striking his family. However, the creature obviously learns quickly and I find it more plausible to think that he progressed in his ability to act rationally despite his ugly outward appearance.
The topic was discussed yesterday regarding the innoncence of Justine and the creature against the evidence to suggest either one killed William. As the creature begins to recount his life since his animation, he never admits to committing the crime but presents the reader with some interesting pieces of information on which he/she can deduce their judgment. Although I have not fully read the entirety of the creature's recollections, I have come to contend that he did not kill Victor's brother William. I do not wish to persuade any reader to join my side, mostly because a counterargument to this stance would be just as valid. It is my opinion based on the mental characterization of the creature and his experiences with other humans. Towards the end of chapter twelve, the creature expounds upon the interactions he witnesses while hiding the the shed next to the cottage in the mountains. The care and compassion that Agatha, Felix, and the father demonstrated towards each other in the face of their poverty moved the creature and he found himself wanting to assist them in their struggles. This experience and his desire to help them out and learn their language came before the murder of William. So, I personally believe that the creature would be bolstered and inspired by the interactions here despite his earlier unpleasant humanly interactions. If he had exclusively known sorrow, as he states above, then I could understand his desire to get back at his creator by striking his family. However, the creature obviously learns quickly and I find it more plausible to think that he progressed in his ability to act rationally despite his ugly outward appearance.
Family Dynamic
"I had thitherto supposed him to be the murderer of my brother, and I eagerly sought a confirmation or denial of this option. For the fist time, also, I felt what the duties of a creator towards his creature were, and that I ought to render him happy before I complained of his wickedness." Pg. 70
One topic of discussion mentioned in my small group, discussing the latest four chapters, brought up the relationship between Frankenstein and the creature. Although the reader only gets two chapters to experience the thoughts and feeling of the creature during his first two years of life, I feel as though I received an adequate glimpse into the dynamic between Frankenstein and the creature. The two possibilities of the relationship being a creator-servant or a father-son dynamic caused me to question Victor's response to finally talking to the creature and his explanation of his feelings, which he briefly describes in the quote above. I undoubtedly believe the relationship is one of a father and a son. The creature is obviously advanced for his age, and has come to know human emotion through suffering and by experiencing it between other individuals. A servant blindly obeys his commander and suppresses his/her emotions until he/she is alone or away from the master. Frankenstein's monster freely expresses his emotion and the harships he has endured. Like a father, Frankenstein says he feels some fatherly obligation to listen to his creation rather than purely control him. I also believe that the seeming tendency for the relationship to be one of a father and son stems from Victor's own relationship with his father. His father has been very good to him over the years, so he knows what true compassion and patronly duty feels like, and notices the duty he has to this creature. These feelings spurn compassion and a bit of guilt within Frankenstein, which are definitely marks of a father rather than a master.
One topic of discussion mentioned in my small group, discussing the latest four chapters, brought up the relationship between Frankenstein and the creature. Although the reader only gets two chapters to experience the thoughts and feeling of the creature during his first two years of life, I feel as though I received an adequate glimpse into the dynamic between Frankenstein and the creature. The two possibilities of the relationship being a creator-servant or a father-son dynamic caused me to question Victor's response to finally talking to the creature and his explanation of his feelings, which he briefly describes in the quote above. I undoubtedly believe the relationship is one of a father and a son. The creature is obviously advanced for his age, and has come to know human emotion through suffering and by experiencing it between other individuals. A servant blindly obeys his commander and suppresses his/her emotions until he/she is alone or away from the master. Frankenstein's monster freely expresses his emotion and the harships he has endured. Like a father, Frankenstein says he feels some fatherly obligation to listen to his creation rather than purely control him. I also believe that the seeming tendency for the relationship to be one of a father and son stems from Victor's own relationship with his father. His father has been very good to him over the years, so he knows what true compassion and patronly duty feels like, and notices the duty he has to this creature. These feelings spurn compassion and a bit of guilt within Frankenstein, which are definitely marks of a father rather than a master.
Motivation
"I doubted at first whether I should attempt the creation of a being like myself, or one of simpler organization; but my imagination was too much exalted by my first success to permit me to doubt of my ability to give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as man. The materials at present within my command hardly appeared adequate to so arduous an undertaking; but I doubted not that I should ultimately succeed." Pg. 32
Victor Frankenstein slowly exposes his thoughts and feelings through some direct but mostly indirect characterization in the novel. Although the action is sparse compared to the internal thoughts and conflicts Victor exposes, the reader receives through these thoughts and feelings the motivation for his past actions. When beginning the novel, readers learn that from a young age Frankenstein revelled in his curiosity of "the magnificent appearance of things." He had an inquisitve mind that was nurtured by his positive upbringing and his relationships with Elizabeth and Henry. A while later, he reads the studies of philosophers Magnus and Paracelsus, and instantly calls himself "their disciple." It is at this point that, while recollecting, Victor acknowledges destiny took command and ultimately steered him to his dispair. After the creature seems to kill William, Victor shifts his motivation to destruction of the monster. The point I wish to make about Frankenstein's motivation stems from the sequence in which each particular motivation arises. Events in his life lead him become motivated to act in certain ways, such as after he creates the creature and it kills William. Victor is then motivated to kill the creature to end his own suffering and the danger he sees for others. The motivation does not come from within but is prompted by outside influences. He calls it destiny but I believe Victor lacks to ability to find motivation within himself and find a purpose to which he actually sees as overall good and worthwhile. By not doing so, he finds himself in guilt and dispair more than bliss and satisfaction.
Victor Frankenstein slowly exposes his thoughts and feelings through some direct but mostly indirect characterization in the novel. Although the action is sparse compared to the internal thoughts and conflicts Victor exposes, the reader receives through these thoughts and feelings the motivation for his past actions. When beginning the novel, readers learn that from a young age Frankenstein revelled in his curiosity of "the magnificent appearance of things." He had an inquisitve mind that was nurtured by his positive upbringing and his relationships with Elizabeth and Henry. A while later, he reads the studies of philosophers Magnus and Paracelsus, and instantly calls himself "their disciple." It is at this point that, while recollecting, Victor acknowledges destiny took command and ultimately steered him to his dispair. After the creature seems to kill William, Victor shifts his motivation to destruction of the monster. The point I wish to make about Frankenstein's motivation stems from the sequence in which each particular motivation arises. Events in his life lead him become motivated to act in certain ways, such as after he creates the creature and it kills William. Victor is then motivated to kill the creature to end his own suffering and the danger he sees for others. The motivation does not come from within but is prompted by outside influences. He calls it destiny but I believe Victor lacks to ability to find motivation within himself and find a purpose to which he actually sees as overall good and worthwhile. By not doing so, he finds himself in guilt and dispair more than bliss and satisfaction.
Internal Conflict
"Now all was blasted: instead of that serenity of conscience which allowed me to look back upon the past with self-satisfaction, and from thence to gather promise of new hopes, I was seized by remorse and the sense of guilt, which hurried me away to a hell of intense tortures, such as no language can describe." Pg. 61
While working through the first eighty pages of this novel, I noticed the majority of the text contains content pertaining to Victor's recollection of his past and what has led him to the ship with Walton. When I was talking to friends about the book, one noted how the action of the story, including all that has led Frankenstein to the current point, could probably be summed up in nearly ten pages. Although I agree with that statement as it is unarguably true, I feel that the content of the novel remains as important as the actions. During these first twelve chapters, the reader becomes well-acquainted with the emotions Victor feels about his family, learning, and his creation of the monster. The internal conflict that becomes apparent in these self-examinations, especially his mental conflict over his ambition and its resultant misery, shows its significance when one considers the underlying themes throughout the book. Some themes glare conspicuously above others when one sympathizes with Victor's internal conflict, such as the role of destiny in his fate, or the inevitability of guilt stemming from his neglect of the creature. When considering these topics, the internal conflict becomes much more relevant and crucial to the novel as a whole. The internal conflict also compliments the external conflict between the creature and Victor well. While he thinks of the creature as a fiend and a demon, Frankenstein must also consider how he himself has become a fiend to himself.
While working through the first eighty pages of this novel, I noticed the majority of the text contains content pertaining to Victor's recollection of his past and what has led him to the ship with Walton. When I was talking to friends about the book, one noted how the action of the story, including all that has led Frankenstein to the current point, could probably be summed up in nearly ten pages. Although I agree with that statement as it is unarguably true, I feel that the content of the novel remains as important as the actions. During these first twelve chapters, the reader becomes well-acquainted with the emotions Victor feels about his family, learning, and his creation of the monster. The internal conflict that becomes apparent in these self-examinations, especially his mental conflict over his ambition and its resultant misery, shows its significance when one considers the underlying themes throughout the book. Some themes glare conspicuously above others when one sympathizes with Victor's internal conflict, such as the role of destiny in his fate, or the inevitability of guilt stemming from his neglect of the creature. When considering these topics, the internal conflict becomes much more relevant and crucial to the novel as a whole. The internal conflict also compliments the external conflict between the creature and Victor well. While he thinks of the creature as a fiend and a demon, Frankenstein must also consider how he himself has become a fiend to himself.
Parallelism
"A flash of lightning illuminated the object, and discovered its shape plainly to me; its gigantic stature, and the deformity of its aspect, more hideous than belongs to humanity, instantly informed me that it was the wretch, the filthy daemon to whom I had given life." Pg. 50
Throughout the first half of Frankenstein, the reader only comes to know the appearance and perceived demeanor of the creature through Victor Frankenstein's characterization of it. However, the first twelve chapters afford the reader a few brief glimpses into the appearance of the creature. Each time the creature is spotted, Victor describes him as a monster of "gigantic stature," and I believe there is significance in the repetition of this phrase. A diligent reader can perceive that Frankenstein progress through several mental states, including despair, terror, guilt, and bliss. The creature is the cause of these emotions, but his descrpition does not change throughout the entirety of the first half. By describing the creature in terms of his size and stature, Victor conveys to the reader the natural emotions which follow sighting such a monster. Although he thoroughly explains his emotions each time he spots the creature, the physical description serves to punctuate the innate feelings which are associated with the monster. I have little doubt that if I were to perceive such a creature, I too would feel terrified and ultimately combative toward him. The repetition also serves as an effective set-up for the dialogue the creature gives in chapters eleven and twelve. In these pages, one learns how the creature was greatly neglected, and the physical description contrasts greatly with his obvious tenderness and personal hardships.
Throughout the first half of Frankenstein, the reader only comes to know the appearance and perceived demeanor of the creature through Victor Frankenstein's characterization of it. However, the first twelve chapters afford the reader a few brief glimpses into the appearance of the creature. Each time the creature is spotted, Victor describes him as a monster of "gigantic stature," and I believe there is significance in the repetition of this phrase. A diligent reader can perceive that Frankenstein progress through several mental states, including despair, terror, guilt, and bliss. The creature is the cause of these emotions, but his descrpition does not change throughout the entirety of the first half. By describing the creature in terms of his size and stature, Victor conveys to the reader the natural emotions which follow sighting such a monster. Although he thoroughly explains his emotions each time he spots the creature, the physical description serves to punctuate the innate feelings which are associated with the monster. I have little doubt that if I were to perceive such a creature, I too would feel terrified and ultimately combative toward him. The repetition also serves as an effective set-up for the dialogue the creature gives in chapters eleven and twelve. In these pages, one learns how the creature was greatly neglected, and the physical description contrasts greatly with his obvious tenderness and personal hardships.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)