There
are many similarities between these two novels, so an argumentative essay could be based on one
of several common themes. One central issue that both Mary Shelley andtake on is the alienation
of modern society. Another theme about which an argument could be developed is ethical
responsibility in science. At the broadest level, both authors are encouraging the reader to
question what it means to be a human being.
Many of the characters in both
novels are physically and/or emotionally alienated from their society. In
Frankenstein, Walton, Victor, and the creature all have problems fitting in
to their own society and try to find meaningful lives. In , not only the
clones but some of the Hailsham staff feel separate from the mainstream social environment. An
argument about this theme could propose that the authors emphasize that the modern world impedes
more than it supports feelings of belonging.
Victor clearly behaves
irresponsibly both when he constructs and animates the creature, and when he abandons him. Both
the originals who have been cloned and the scientists who conduct the procedures have
sidestepped scientific ethics. An argument about the lack of ethics in both novels could address
the idea of playing God or focus on the consequences when scientists do not take
responsibility for their actions.
The topic of human identity is the most
general so is most easily supported by evidence in both novels. Drawing on the experiences of
the creature and the clones, one could argue in favor of nature or nurture as the main
determinant in making an animate being truly human.
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