I am interested in how the idea of presence is constructed on many layers in the first section of Frankenstein, particularly with the narrator and how he affects the theme of the book in any way. Also, how does his function in the novel parallel the "presence" of the other characters in the book, and is the way the narrator function in any way tied to the "creation" and "presence" of the monster? We must consider: Why is Robert Walton Important?
1. How do Robert Walton's letters at the beginning the novel get us ready for the story that he about to tell us? Would the novel be any different without the letters, especially in the way that the reader perceives and reacts to the events that take place?
2. What kind of person would you say Walton is in terms of his personality and character? Is he anything other than a story teller in the novel, or does he merely serve a mechanicanistic function as narrator? Does he play any part in thematic development?
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To answer the first question, I look at the letters at the beginning of the novel within its historical context. Letters from Walton to his sister about his journey to the North Pole relate to the readers of Shelley's time. New experiments and great expeditions to the north were probably big news at the time, especially with the rise of the Industrial Revolution. These events are connected with the novel, and the readers are made familiar with Walton's journey. To simply jump into Victor's story may not connect with them as much. By closely relating the discoveries of the 19th Century to the fictional account of the novel prepare the readers to explore a theme or message Shelly wants to make about technology.
My answer to the second question also covers the problem of how we can relate to Walton in his own time. Walton is very ambitious--he seeks the North Pole and its possible riches in knowledge that come with it. We as students in the 21st Century are somewhat in the same situation. We have our own ambitions and they may not be as dangerous as Walton's, but academics can consume us if we're not careful. Walton sets up the narration, but also serves our theme. He is the young man looking for new things, but if he's not careful, Walton might unleash something unintended. Like Walton, we are listening to Victor's story as a warning.
Leigh said, as to the answer to the first question, I feel that the letters just puts the readers in the frame of mind going back to the days of the Industrial Revolution. This is where technology actually got it's start. New and better things were happening every day.This gives the reader a sense of reality in the story that scientist may possibly make such things as the monster. Without the letters then the story would be just another ghost story, which it is but, the reader can almost imagine it being real, because of all the changes going on at the time.
Second question. Walton's, like Victor, wants to be better in knowledge than anyone including God. When that happens pure evil is unleashed and many get hurt,or even killed, like Victors brother in the second chapter of the novel.
1. The letters at the beginning of the novel serve as a frame of the story. It helps readers actually "believe" what is about to be shared with them. Many authors use this device to encourage a more in depth and connected reading because it makes the novel feel as if it is real. Hence, the readers can parallel their own disbelief and surprise with that of Walton's. The letters also seem to give the book a sense of myth and mystery which heightens the gothic appeal. In the novel, this bizarre tale was not meant for the world to see, ; however, the letters allow readers to fall into the world of Frankenstein.
2. Along with the actual letters, Walton serves a great purpose in the novel. He parallels Victor strongly in that they are both captured by scientific myopia. It is as if they both don't realize what they are doing until it is almost too late. Therefore, Victor sharing his story is one warning, yet Walton's dangerous journeys to the North Pole are another. These warnings highlight the insanity that tunnel vision can ensue.
1. The letters serve as an introduction to the story. They make the story more believable, and also create a sense of suspense and intrigue. They make the reader want to know more about Walton and why he is on the journey to begin with.
2. Walton seems to be the literal story teller of the novel. He confesses that he has a love for the mysterious and strange. However, I think he only serves as a narrator.
1. At the beginning of the novel Robert Walton's laetters act as a frame narrative setting up the main plot of the novel. Also, his letters add credibility and a sense of believability to Victor's story. In the absence of Walton's letters Victor's account of the following events would appear totally incredulous and unsubstantiated.
2. Walton appears to be a high minded virtious individual in pursuit of a worthy goal of self-improvement. At the moment he seems to play no part in the thematic development of the play. Though, he does introduce to the reader what appears to be the final setting for the novel.
1 and 2 respectively combined: Robert’s letters prepare readers for Victor’s story in numerous ways. The letters first throw one into an odd setting: Robert’s ship is anchored in the midst of colossal ice blocks, a strange setting, but just believable. One has the impression such a story could not be told or considered plausible in a normal setting. Perhaps the reader takes baby steps into this bizarre story by first being exposed to Robert’s letters. Robert also sights a being of massive proportions on the ice, lending more credibility to Victor’s tale and intensifying the theme of suspense. Robert’s high opinion of Victor and his accounts of Victor’s several noble qualities also lend credibility to the story. Victor’s reluctance to relate his experience also heightens reader curiosity while simultaneously garnering more credibility; it seems that Victor wants greatly to remain silent, but cannot in consideration for Robert, who lies in danger of committing the same sins: perhaps undermining God by attempting to be him and gaining forbidden knowledge. Furthermore, as Dr. Gerard stated, the possibility exists that Robert is enhancing Victor’s tale with his own flourishes.
1. Walton’s letters are important because they provide a framework for the suspension of belief necessary to read Frankenstein’s story. Without Walton’s seemingly reliable narration at the beginning, including his description of the Creature, Victor’s story would seem to be simply ravings of a madman. Walton also provides a parallel for Victor’s monomania, obsession, ambition, and pride. His story also takes the reader out of the “safe zone” of society and into the wilds of the frozen north. This parallels both Victor and the Creature’s escape to Mont Blanc.
2. Walton desires to be a caring, deep person. He expresses unease at the harsh mannerisms of sea captains, yet he is willing to ask these men to take on an extremely dangerous journey. He often relates people’s appearances in detail, proving, like Victor, his shallow nature. His letters also provide closure to the novel later on. Walton is an extension of
...Walton is an extension of Victor, a real-life parallel that may be intended to cause readers to reflect on themselves.
1) Walton's letters are extremely important. They sort of set the tone for the story and in a way mirror Victor's situation. Here you have this sea captain making a very ambitious push into frozen and unknown territory. It's dangerous and some might even say suicidal. The novel benefits from the letters in several ways. First of all the letters are an extremely creative jumping off point. It gives a sense of realism to the story and makes the reader feels as if they really are reading a letter someone wrote many years ago. It's also a unique way to open up the novel. The frontier is foreign and vast. However, you feel as if it's not safe. There's the element of danger lurking and not knowing when it's going to strike.
2) I think overall he comes across as a nice guy. He is ambitious and wants very much to achieve his goals. The problem is how far is he willing to go to achieve said goal. Will parts of the crew's lives be expendable? The character is set up in a positive light -- but his desires are noted. At some point he will have to make a very tough decision.
Robert Walton is an ambitious man who's self taught knowledge is a threat to his life and those of others. He is a parallel to Victor that has the chance to be saved through Victor's narration should he notice the strong message of overstepping the bounds of the human condition as a dangerous feat. His tale is a major part of the novel as there is a fear that he will continue on with his endeavors even thought the results could be disastrous.
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