Mary Shelley's Use Of Biblical Allusions In Frankenstein

In many novels symbolism functions as a way to reveal much of what is intended for the reader to understand about characters and the work as a whole. Symbols can be ideas, objects, or actions that constitute multiple interpretations or meanings. This is also true for many older novels including Frankenstein. Throughout the gothic fiction novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the use of symbolism and the role it partakes in the entirety of the story signifies its importance. There are many symbols throughout the novel some including light and fire, the creation story, and exploration. The function of these symbols in the story play a pivotal role in how the reader perceives the characters and also how the theme of knowledge influences the nature

In Frankenstein, references to the bible are shown throughout and are very influential to the the deeper meaning of the story. "will I achieve; treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation"(Shelley 33). Here Frankenstein decides to further his exploration into science surpassing that of which most of society considers natural. He will attempt to create and animate life from the dead which is unnatural and beyond what is capable for mankind to accomplish. His unwavering quest for knowledge and what lies beyond the natural world entices him. Him creating life from nothing symbolises and even characterizes him as a godly figure. Godly figure quote This is shown through his actions and also the way in which he wants to be seen by society. A person to be remembered and praised by his creations. The ties to the biblical creation story embed further into the work once the creatures story is introduced. The creature states that "I ought to be thy Adam; but I am rather the fallen angel." (Shelley 87) Just like Adam, the creature was created in his masters image. Adam from God and the Creature from the dark and ugly nature of man. The creature thus symbolises the horrid nature of man when brought to closer examination. Reiterating this the creature later exclaims to Frankenstein in a blind rage“accursed creator![...]God, in pity, made man beautiful and alluring, after his own image; but my form is a filthy type of yours, more horrid even from the very resemblance" (Shelley 118). Frankenstein is the Creatures maker and thus has a responsibility to acknowledge this fact. This scene symbolizes both the underlying theme of unnatural creation and what happens when man attempts to become God and seek for knowledge that was not meant for them to have.(need a 3rd