1.Explain how this quote relates to the novel Frankenstein: “Knowledge is knowing Frankenstein is not the monster; wisdom is knowing Frankenstein is the monster.”
2. Based on the events from Frankenstein, what advice would you have given to Victor? Why? Provide evidence from the story that leads you to believe that this would be good advice for Victor (quote with line number).
3. Consider a book, story, or movie you've enjoyed from modern times. How is the conflict in Frankenstein similar? Provide evidence from both stories to demonstrate the similarities.
1. This quote relates to the novel Frankenstein by highlighting the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Victor Frankenstein is the creator of the monster, but he ultimately becomes the true monster through his reckless ambition and lack of responsibility for his creation. While knowing that Victor is not the physical monster is knowledge, understanding that he is the true monster due to his actions and choices is wisdom. This distinction emphasizes the themes of hubris and the consequences of playing god that are central to the novel.
2. If I were to give advice to Victor based on the events of Frankenstein, I would advise him to take responsibility for his actions and acknowledge the harm he has caused. Throughout the story, Victor avoids facing the consequences of creating the monster and instead tries to evade responsibility. This ultimately leads to tragedy and destruction. One piece of evidence that demonstrates this is when Victor reflects on the monster's creation and states, "I beheld the wretch—the miserable monster whom I had created" (Shelley, Chapter 5). This passage shows Victor's initial reaction to his creation and hints at his eventual refusal to take responsibility.
3. One modern story that shares similarities with the conflict in Frankenstein is Marvel's Avengers: Age of Ultron. Both stories revolve around the idea of creating something with good intentions that ultimately spirals out of control and causes destruction. In Age of Ultron, Tony Stark creates the artificial intelligence Ultron to be a peacekeeping solution, but Ultron becomes a dangerous threat that must be stopped. This mirrors Victor's creation of the monster in Frankenstein, as both creations were initially meant for good but ended up causing chaos and destruction. This similarity highlights the theme of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of playing god in both stories.