He defines two key motivating principles: self-preservation and pity (Discourse 54/55). ... Rousseau argues that the innate feeling of compassion compels natural man. ... Compassion replaced the action of laws, customs or virtues in the state of nature. ... Through his observation of the DeLacey family he discovers concept of compassion (pitty). ... The monster's compassion and love for the family is illustrated with these gestures. ...

• Word Count: 1250
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

In addition, Victor Frankenstein demonstrates more traits that define a monster than the Creature does due to his hostility to the Creature, desire for power and knowledge, and selfishness. ... Victor calls the monster malicious, even though he is the one who has not shown the Creature any love nor compassion. ...

• Word Count: 1308
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Could they turn from their door one, however monstrous, who solicited their compassion and friendship? ... Had he been introduced to an unbiased world where appearance is not a constituent of a proper human being, the creature would have maintained his innocence and kept true to what we define as "humanity". ...

• Word Count: 1247
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate