English literature Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

English literature - Essay Example n Frankenstein there seems to be a continuous struggle for the women characters however the author appears to be very specific in considering independence for women, in the sense not woman character is likely to decide and act independently like that of Jane Eyre. There remains lack of action from the part of women characters, where as in Jane Eyre women characters take the leading as well as challenging position representing their presence in the novel as active. â€Å"However, the passive nature of the female characters adheres more closely to what would typically be expected of them, as both Elizabeth and Frankensteins mother are portrayed as wonderful but nevertheless altogether dependent on the men for provision. It is possible that Shelley felt that too many radical positions in the book might alienate the very audience she was attempting to influence,† observes Shader [2002]. There is one final female character in the book. Frankensteins servant Justine, who is possibly the ideal picture of women in the book. However, the character of Justine has been criticised only as a failure. Elizabeth describes her "softness and winning mildness", while Frankenstein calls her "frank-hearted and happy." It is interesting to note that one woman praises another for her passiveness, and indeed, it is this passive nature that is typical of women in the book and particularly prominent in Justine. Even in the face of the greatest injustice, Justine submits to the judicial system, saying, "I must be condemned, although I would pledge my salvation on my innocence. Shader [2002] â€Å"Another pattern that both Anne Mellor in "The Female in Frankenstein" and William Veeder in "Frankenstein: Self-Division and Projection" discuss is that of name symbolism, which reinforces Victor Frankensteins hubris in trying to eliminate the female as he attempts to win eternal fame as the founder of a new line of superhuman. Instead of submitting himself to the will of the community and the