The Power of Sight

What a character sees is a crucial motive for actions throughout Frankenstein. It the climax of the novel, when the monster pleads with Frankenstein to create a companion for himself, Frankensteingains compassion and agrees to create a companion only after struggling with indecision. Every time Frankenstein would look at the monster, he would not comply with he monster's desire, but when he only heard the monster, he would regain his compassion and agree to create a companion.

Yet again in the novel, the monster witnesses a similar situation. "When [Walton] again cast[s his] eyes on the lifeless form of [his] friend [Frankenstein], indignation [is] rekindled within [Walton]" (187). Unpleasant thoughts are provoked by unpleasant sight, which is often associated with the monster and the results of his murderous actions.

Sight is perhaps the most powerful sense a being possesses. A single glance creates strong emotions. Unfortunately, Frankenstein shows the darker sides of man: his reliance on sight to judge someone and act in a negative manner. Maybe if sight were absent, the monster would have lived a normal human life, one of

no judgement and reactions based on looks.

Knowledge

Knowledge comes in many forms. There is basic knowledge: how to brush your hair and teeth, how to speak and move, how to put your shoes on. This knowledge allows a person to perform everyday tasks and is gained through observation of those around us at a very early age. It is often taught by our parents. However, there are more complicated forms of knowledge that can alter a life in a profound way and which is unique to a person. Everyday in school students, driven by their distinct passions and interests, gain knowledge of math, english, science, and more. However, is there ever a point where this quest for knowledge gets too far?

I believe that once knowledge can harm a being, it has reached beyond its limit. This harm can be towards the seeker of knowledge himself or towards others. In the case of Frankenstein, his quest for knowledge impairs his mental sanity and the well-being of others. Because of his extended knowledge of natural philosophy, therefore allowing him to create a monster, he believes he has caused the death of loved ones.

I am interested in studying science; however, I must always remember that I should not reach my experiments beyond the acceptable limit (which I believe exists). I will not risk the lives of others in order to gain knowledge. Knowledge should be used to help others and not for selfish curiosity, which is what Frankenstein did. Selfish curiosity sounds familiar--the story of Adam and Eve might come to mind. There is a point at which we must control ourselves and realize the consequences of our actions including the acts of pursuing knowledge.