In 1817, Mary Shelley set out to write a ghost story that would "curdle the blood, and quicken the beatings of the heart." With this goal in mind she began her quest. The finished product Frankenstein was one that frightened Shelley herself. With some persuasion from her husband the tale that began as "but a few pages" grew into an epic masterpiece. The novel discusses themes that have continued to ponder readers" minds even today. The morals and ethics relating to the novel are universal and continue to cause controversy. The question as to whether or not the wretch's behavior is justified is one such moral dilemma that haunts the readers of this gothic tale. Victor Frankenstein, a seeker of distinction, is synonymous with his misuse of science that creates a creature for which he provides no direction. It is almost a cautionary tale of the inevitable disasters that await when mankind attempts to play God, just as Victor tried to do. By ignoring the natural process !.
of creation around him and not taking responsibility for his actions, Victor indirectly causes the deaths of everyone he held dear to him. Instead of nurturing the creature he gave life to, he abandons it leaving the creature to face an unaccepting world on his own. "All men hate the wretched; how, then, must I be hated whom am miserable beyond all living things." (125) The result of Frankenstein's abandonment is the creature's revenge against him. He murders William (Victor's innocent brother), frames Justine causing her execution, and murders Cleval. Mary Shelley allows all characters to express their side of the story, thus effectively forcing the reader to take a position, and side with either Victor or the wretch. Given societal standards and expectations, the wretch's behavior would certainly be considered inexcusable; however, given the circumstances it can clearly be justified.
The monster's behavior can be justified because of the lack of guidance and attention he was given when he enters the world.
