The True Hero In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

In the novel The Pillars of the Earth, many characters exist with malicious, corrupt intentions. Whether it be in the pursuit of self-gain, or the desire to destroy others, these antagonists constantly cause havoc and destruction. The only thing that comes in between these antagonists and the rest of the population is a few unique individuals. Multiple characters in the novel are characterized as the hero archetype, and although each one operates in their own unique way, they all contribute to the betterment of society, while protecting the people around them. The common trait that defines these individuals as hero archetypes is that they all undergo a quest at some point in the story, which involves a separation, transformation, and return.

A timeless human goal has always been to set visionary goals to advance the coming generations. Although many results can be successful, a great number of them can turn out deadly. In the novel, Frankenstein, Mary Shelley illustrates the result of a man’s visionary motive of creating life, which consequents into the birth of the deadly creature. The creatures understanding of justice is based on eliminating anyone or anything preventing him from reaching his goal; accordingly, his actions to attempt revenge upon Victor only led to his downfall throughout the novel. The creature’s understanding of justice and it’s revenge against Victor is the driving force of the story because it builds up the anticipation the reader has for the final confrontation.

Courage allowed Beowulf to face Grendel’s mom. Not only did he have courage, but Beowulf gained fame from facing the monster. Everyone looked at him now as hero for having courage and the strength to defeat the monster. “Beowulf shows that his courage and strength should be an inspiration to all heroes”(Garcia). Beowulf desire was to defeat Grendel’s mom after he has already defeated Grendel.

Frankenstein's final attempt to earn glory by sending a man into a frozen tundra in the small chance he would return victorious is a fitting ending to his life that was consumed by ego and constantly resulted in the destruction of

Because Beowulf is an epic hero, he is destined to face monsters and creatures with unreal strength and extreme power. This puts him in grave danger and makes him “engaged in a struggle which he cannot win.” The main traits of being a hero make it so the hero is always faced with challenges that eventually get the better of

His pride and desire to control the very nature of life ruled his life for years, driving him into an obsession. Deep down, he know his work was immoral, but “who shall conceive the horrors of [his] secret toil, as [he] dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay (pg 33).” His

Death was nothing but a recurring theme for Victor Frankenstein until his own. However, it is not the death of him that tells his story, but rather the journey he takes in life. In Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, Victor created a monster, who brought him pain and torment by taking the lives of his loved ones. These trials pushed Frankenstein to the edge of insanity, but in the long run he emerges successful after a long journey of hardships. Like many heroes, Frankenstein’s expedition follows a uniform sequence of events, known as Joseph Campbell 's hero’s journey, to prove his worthiness.

Beowulf’s Motivations (An Understanding of the motivations of Beowulf to Fight the Three Monsters) Every human being has a certain code with which they follow, most are outlined by the Anglo-Saxon, better known as Viking, code. This code itself was depicted through the epic poem known as, “Beowulf,” and more importantly, Beowulf’s motivations. His first motivation for fighting Grendel, is because he believes it is his duty to fight the monster. Secondly, Beowulf believes that fighting Grendel’s mother would help him in receive glory.

“I have devoted my creator, the select specimen of all that is worthy of love and admiration among men, to misery; I have pursued him even to that irremediable ruin.” (Shelley 275). Finally, his transformation into the monster he was instantly labeled to become was complete because society and his own maker were not willing to give him the possibility of redemption. We are all presented with labels at different periods throughout our lives, redefining, altering, or eradicating them. So, why could the creature not do this for himself and cause society to somehow accept him?

His honest courtship combined with Desdemona’s undying affection fulfills his ideal relationship. Subliminally, Othello loves Desdemona because of her status and the fact that she loves, and has only ever loved Othello. “I’ll pour this pestilence into [Othello’s] ear: / That [Desdemona] repeals him for her body’s lust” exclaims Iago diabolically (2.3.265-6). He knows that a corruption of this pure and honorable relationship will ruin Othello, just as Othello’s supposed affair with Emilia affects Iago. As Eastman states, “Iago, we might say, is able to find his way to Othello's heart by looking within his own” (Eastman).

The characters, shaper, man, and the dragon shape Grendel into the monster he so desires. They teach him of lies, false glory, brutality, never ending violence, and wisdom. To begin with, the shaper influences Grendel through his songs of past heroism and a pure legacy. He demonstrates it

Curtis does a magnificent job with telling the reader how determined Jackson was. Once he saw something he wanted, he fought for it with every bone in his body. Curtis states, "Jackson would meet nullification as he had met previous challenges, with determination to defend himself and his principles. He fully recognized the risk. 'I will die for the Union, ' he said fearlessly"(145).

Protagonist’s transformation Heroes are the most magnificent people in the universe. Without them, the world would be crestfallen. There are many kinds of heroes, and it is not easy to become one. Overtime, these categories might have changed. However, the heroic traits of Beowulf as well as the realistic heroes today can be found amazingly different based on how they protect others, their inspiration, and their bravery.