To many, the term "monster" conjures images of gruesome or mutated creatures. These typically hideous and prowling creatures often commit horrible acts of violence with no concern for the feelings, opinions, and safety of others. Yet, monsters come in many forms and not all are of malicious or evil intent. Mary Shelley's literary creation, "Frankenstein," is one example of how appearance - however grotesque - does not necessarily determine what lies beneath the surface. In the book, Victor Frankenstein is what one may call, "a mad scientist," as he attempts to step into the god-like role of creator of human life. His macabre creation appears, by all accounts, to be the textbook monster; tall, ugly, imposing and powerful. The scientist becomes obsessed with his "child," but upon its completion, flees from its presence seeing it for the monster it appears to be. Due to Victor's need for fame and desire for power leads to Victor becoming a monster. Victor begins his quest to bring life to a dead person because he does not want anyone to feel the pain of a loved ones death. At first, he is not obsessed with his project. As he moves along in the project, he thinks about what will happen to him. "Life and death appeared to me ideal bounds, which I should first break through, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator and source, many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me." (Shelley 39) He realizes that he will become famous if he accomplishes the task of bringing a person back to life. The realization that he will become famous turns him into an obsessive monster. He wanted to be appreciated, and praised as a creator. He quarantines himself from his family and works on the creature. "I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this I deprived myself of rest and health.
