The Monster Within

            Morality is regarded as the differentiation between the good or right and the bad or wrong ideals set differently with every culture, religion and philosophy. In some ways, morality defines the standards to which every member of the society should think and live. On the other hand, science is viewed as a body of knowledge which thrives to understand the infinite possibilities, to test the limits of human abilities and to provide for the society’s best interest.  It is enriched by the efforts of scientists specializing in their respectable fields. 

            In Frankenstein, these two contradicting entities have outlined the plot severely. A scientific creation was deemed a monster by the people who believed that those who died should stay dead since it goes against their faith where God alone could grant life. However, there are scientists devoted to the task of conquering the greatest fear of human existence -- death. With this goal in mind, they have gone to every measure to generate beings back from the dead with physical abilities greater than the humans though relatively lower mental abilities.

            Dr. Frankenstein’s creation depicted as dumb in the movie adaptation successfully made people realize that the humans are not at all different to the being they call a monster. This creature was initially presented with the inability to converse and pretty much know nothing about the world but as the film progressed he learned personally from people and his experiences.  It is the same state humans were before acquiring the knowledge and wisdom they value domineeringly.

            The similarity does not end there.  The ‘monster’ was portrayed as a violent murderer but would you not do the same things if faced with life-threatening situations? After all, it is inevitable to act after one’s sense of self-preservation. Moreover, the sense of belongingness and acceptance is not foreign to everyone. Imagine if that is all you want from your community but all you receive is a series of varying horrified expressions. You end up lashing at them in frustration. Lastly, anyone desires to love and be loved, may it be from family, friends or that special someone. You may search everywhere but if there is one thing you will realize, love can be granted, shared and received but it can never be imposed to others.

            People have been afraid of this ‘monster’ without taking into consideration that his actions and ideas reflect that of his creator, a human, with all the good and the bad traits. Inside every person, a monster lurks. It is up to you how to tame it by pursuing ways for moral nourishment as everybody is also created innately good.

Soliman,Karla L.
2013-09067
THX: E-One