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Victor Frankenstein: Epic Hero Essay

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The typical horror story in the current century is the idea of the dead, coming alive. Yet in the status quo, the zombie era is truly coming to life, and it is easy to figure out where this idea originated. The historic book Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley describes a man who creates a creature out of dead body parts of humans. Although this monster was meant for good purposes, it eventually leads to destruction including multiple murders. However, Victor Frankenstein can actually be determined as a hero by the ways in which he fits within the interpretation of an epic hero. Gregory Nagy describes these traits when he writes: “The words ‘epic’ and ‘hero’ both defy generalization, let alone universalizing definitions. …show more content…

Prometheus gave fire to man, and Frankenstein lifted the dead. This act though, is one that isn’t easy to accomplish easily. Shelley writes: “How dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to be greater than his nature will allow.” (Chapter 4) Dangerous is an understatement and led to the demise of both Victor Frankenstein and Prometheus. However, they intended for their creations to help mankind which makes them heroic. Secondly, the love that Victor Frankenstein has for his family gives him heroic qualities in Shelley’s book. Throughout the entire book, he frequently talked about his love for his family. Mary Shelley writes: “No human being could have passed a happier childhood than myself. My parents were possessed by the very spirit of kindness and indulgence. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. When I mingled with other families I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love.” (Chapter 2) The love that he has for his family is one of the only things that keeps him hopeful. This hope is what led to his strive for happiness.

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