Topic > Comparative Analysis of "Paradise Lost" and "Frankenstein"

Index IntroductionBody ParagraphConclusionIntroductionJohn Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost and Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein are seminal works in the Western literary canon. Despite being separated by nearly two centuries, these texts share striking thematic and narrative similarities. Both works delve into the complexities of creation, rebellion, and the pursuit of knowledge. In Paradise Lost, Milton tells the biblical story of the fall of man, emphasizing themes of disobedience and the consequences of challenging divine authority. On the other hand, Frankenstein explores the ramifications of scientific overreach and man's arrogance through the tragic story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. This essay will compare and contrast these two works, focusing on their thematic parallels, character archetypes, and the moral questions they ask about creation and responsibility. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayBody ParagraphOne of the most significant thematic parallels between Paradise Lost and Frankenstein is the motif of creation and fall. In Paradise Lost, Milton presents humanity's creation and subsequent fall from grace as a consequence of disobedience and defiance against God. Adam and Eve's transgression leads to their expulsion from the Garden of Eden, marking the beginning of suffering and of human mortality. Similarly, in Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein's attempt to play the role of God by creating life results in catastrophic outcomes. His creation, often referred to as the Monster, becomes a symbol of the dangers inherent in humanity's pursuit of divine power. Both texts highlight the danger of excessive ambition and the ethical boundaries that must govern the act of creation. Through these narratives, Milton and Shelley warn against the arrogance of attempting to transcend human limitations. The characters of Satan in Paradise Lost and Victor Frankenstein in Frankenstein serve as archetypal figures of rebellion and ambition. Satan's rebellion against God is driven by his pride and desire for autonomy, leading to his final damnation. Milton portrays Satan as a complex character whose defiance and subsequent fall evoke both admiration and pity. Likewise, Victor Frankenstein's quest for knowledge and his ambition to defeat death mirror Satan's insurrection. Victor's creation of the Monster can be seen as an act of rebellion against the natural order, reflecting his desire to transcend human limitations. Both characters face dire consequences as a result of their actions, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas associated with their pursuit of power. Through these characters, Milton and Shelley explore the destructive potential of uncontrolled ambition and the tragic results of defiance of natural and divine laws. Another point of comparison lies in the representation of created beings: Adam and Eve in Paradise Lost and the Monster in Frankenstein. In Paradise Lost, Adam and Eve are depicted as innocent beings who succumb to temptation, leading to their fall from grace. Their story is one of lost innocence and the harsh reality of human existence after the fall. In contrast, Frankenstein's Monster is a being brought into existence by unnatural means, lacking the innocence associated with Adam and Eve. Despite his grotesque appearance, the Monster initially shows a desire for companionship and understanding. His gradual transformation into a vengeful being is the result of society's rejection and.