Frankenstein Theme of Revenge

In Frankenstein, revenge becomes the solution for both Victor and his monster. While these two characters relentlessly pursue revenge against each other, they stand in contrast to other characters that take up the more Christian virtue of turning the other cheek. Yet it is revenge that ultimately gives both Victor and the monster a continued connection to the world they are destroying for themselves, and it gives them a continued link to each other. Revenge becomes a distorted way of forming a human bond with another person.

Questions About Revenge

1. How does revenge create tragedy in Frankenstein?
2. Who starts the revenge cycle, the monster, or Victor? Does it matter who started it? Who finishes it?
3. How does revenge give both the monster and Victor a purpose in life?
4. Near his death, Victor asks Walton to continue the quest for revenge against the monster. Does Walton honor this request in any way? Why or why not?
5. So, the story ends with the monster declaring he’s going to do die. But we never actually see that happen. What is the effect of this?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

Although revenge forms a very destructive type of bond between the monster and Victor, it ultimately becomes their shared link to humanity and gives them a reason to live.

Victor’s desire for revenge for William’s death is ultimately what brings about the deaths of Henry, Elizabeth, and his father. Victor is therefore morally responsible for these tragic events.