Nature Vs. Nurture in Frankenstein: the Battle for Identity

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” isn’t just a tale to spook you out on a stormy night; it’s a layered narrative that delves into the intricacies of human identity. Beyond the electrifying experiments and haunting pursuits, the heart of the story lies a poignant question that has gripped philosophers, psychologists, and curious minds for centuries: Are we products of our birth – our inherent nature – or molded by our experiences – the nurture we receive? Dr. Frankenstein’s creature is a symbol, a living (or somewhat living) testament to this debate.

And as we peel back the layers of the novel, we find ourselves questioning not just the monster’s humanity but our own.

Who’s to Blame: Genes or the World?

Dr. Frankenstein made his creature out of a mishmash of body parts. Once alive, this poor guy didn’t ask to be here. But from the get-go, he faced hatred, fear, and isolation. I mean, talk about a bad first impression. But did he turn “evil” because he was made that way or because of how he was treated? That’s the million-dollar question.

Some argue that the creature was destined for doom because of his nature – he’s made of dead parts. But others? They point to the trauma and rejection he faced. Imagine being rejected by your creator and then everyone else you meet. Ouch.

Nurtured to… Nurture?

A being, stitched together from the remains of the departed, suddenly comes to life. You’d expect, maybe even assume, that such a creature is destined for malice, right? Well, Shelley throws us a curveball. When Dr. Frankenstein’s creature finds himself alone in the vast world, he seeks refuge near a humble family. Observing from the shadows, he learns about human connections, emotions, and the essence of care.

Instead of rampaging like a mindless beast, the creature demonstrates an innate longing for love and understanding. He assists the family in secret, chopping wood and performing small acts of kindness. Why? Because of their bonds, their warmth influences him. He’s nurturing because he’s been nurtured by their unintentional lessons.

It’s fascinating, really. Despite his macabre origins, the creature shows us that the desire to do good, care, and nurture can emerge even in the most unconventional circumstances. It challenges our preconceptions and poses the question: If a so-called “monster” can exhibit such gentle tendencies after witnessing love, what does it truly say about the power of nurture?

Nature Strikes Back

But let’s not completely rule out nature. The creature had strength. A lot of it. When he snapped, things got destructive. Maybe that’s a bit of his “inborn” character showing up. Or maybe it’s just what happens when someone’s pushed too far. Ever heard the saying, “Cornered animals are the most dangerous”? Kind of fits here, doesn’t it?

The thing with “Frankenstein” is that it’s not just black or white. It’s a dance, a tango between nature and nurture. Dr. Frankenstein’s creature was a product of his unique creation and the world around him.

It’s a reflection of all of us. Sure, we’ve got our genes, our natural inclinations. But our environment and experiences mold us, shape us, and sometimes even twist us. We’re all a bit of Dr. Frankenstein’s creature, trying to find our way in a world that might not always understand or accept us.

Conclusion: It’s Both

So, the next time someone brings up “Frankenstein” in a convo, drop some of this knowledge on them. It’s not just a horror story. It’s a lesson, question, and debate that’s still relevant today. Nature or nurture? The answer isn’t simple. It’s a mix of both. Recognizing that can help us better understand a fictional monster and the real humans around us.

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