Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus

“What may not be expected in a country of eternal light?”

Robert Walton writes that he plans to “discover a passage near the pole” that will “benefit […] all mankind” (2). His drive to visit the North Pole is inspired by a lifelong love of knowledge and by a desire for glory. In Frankenstein, light and fire represent knowledge. Walton’s eagerness to go where “the sun is forever visible” illustrates his desire for seemingly unreachable knowledge (1). It is significant that the light is “eternal” because the novel examines the pitfalls of uninhibited ambition and limitless knowledge.

“The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home. Her sympathy was ours; her smile, her soft voice, the sweet glance of her celestial eyes, were ever there to bless and animate us.”

Frankenstein describes his idyllic childhood, particularly the time spent with Henry Clerval and Elizabeth, who are constantly described as ideal. Clerval is “noble spirit” whose form is “divinely wrought” and “beaming with beauty” (142). Elizabeth is angelic, with hair of “the brightest living gold” that appears like “a crown of distinction on her head” (20). The significance of this passage is twofold. First, Shelley uses it to establish the perfection of Frankenstein’s life, making his future losses more tragic. Second, it illustrates women’s passivity. Elizabeth’s goodness is frequently referenced in relation to the happiness she brings others. Here, she bestows love and sympathy on the Frankenstein family, gracing them with her beauty and serenity.