IndexThe mad scientistThe monsterThe doppelgängerConclusionBibliographyFrankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a gothic novel that explores the themes of creation, ambition and human nature. Throughout the text, Shelley incorporates various archetypes that add depth and complexity to the story. These archetypes act as recurring symbols or patterns that reflect universal human experiences and emotions. By analyzing these archetypes, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and the overall message of the novel. This essay will examine the archetypes of the mad scientist, the monster, and the doppelgänger in Frankenstein, highlighting their meaning and implications. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Mad Scientist One of the most important archetypes in Frankenstein is the mad scientist, embodied by Victor Frankenstein himself. Victor's ambitious quest to create life from dead matter is in line with the mad scientist archetype, a character obsessed with pushing the boundaries of science and morality. This archetype is rooted in the fear and fascination humans have with the power of science and the consequences of tampering with nature. In the novel, Victor's madness is evident in his relentless pursuit of knowledge and his disregard for the ethical implications of his actions. Shelley writes, “I have pursued nature into her hiding-places… I have gathered bones from the ossuaries, and disturbed, with profane fingers, the vast secrets of the human frame” (Shelley 36). This quote highlights Victor's dangerous obsession and his willingness to cross moral boundaries in his pursuit of scientific discovery. The mad scientist archetype in Frankenstein serves to warn readers about the dangers of uncontrolled ambition and the potential consequences of playing god. Victor's creation of the monster ultimately leads to his own downfall, as he is consumed by guilt and despair. This archetype reminds us of the ethical responsibility that comes with scientific progress and the importance of considering the potential repercussions of our actions. The Monster Another significant archetype in Frankenstein is the monster himself. The monster represents the Other, the outsider who is rejected by society because of his appearance and his strangeness. This archetype reflects humanity's fear of the unknown and tendency to reject those who are different. The monster's physical appearance, described as "yellow skin... glossy black lips... watery eyes" (Shelley 51), evokes a sense of revulsion in those who encounter it. Despite its monstrous appearance, the monster possesses a complex and sensitive nature. He longs for companionship and acceptance, but encounters rejection and violence from humans. This refusal fuels the monster's anger and desire for revenge. Shelley writes, "I am evil because I am unhappy. Am I not shunned and hated by all mankind?" (Shelley 107). This quote reveals the monster's deep sense of isolation and highlights the tragic consequences of society's prejudices and fear. The monster archetype in Frankenstein challenges readers to examine their own biases and prejudices. It serves as a reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that true understanding requires empathy and compassion. The monster's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of judging others based solely on their physical appearance. The Doppelgänger The doppelgänger archetype appears in Frankenstein through the parallel between Victor Frankenstein and his creation. The doppelgänger represents the divided self, the conflict within the individual. Victor and the monster, 2003.