Prometheus

Description: 

Before a reader enters the novel, the subtitle, “Or, the Modern Prometheus,” links Victor Frankenstein to Prometheus. Prometheus is the creator of humankind in Greek mythology” (Smith).  This can be seen as foreshadowing. There are parallels between creation and suffering. Victor creates a being as does Prometheus. Prometheus steals fire from the Greek god Zeus and gives it to the humans and is punished for eternity by having an eagle eat his liver each day (Smith). Victor challenges God by taking on the role of creation. Victor suffers until death due to his creation. The creature murders many people close to Victor, so Victor eventually dies on the quest to destroy the creature.

Smith, Jennifer. “Allusions in Frankenstein.” Study.Com, study.com/academy/lesson/allusions-in-frankenstein.html. Accessed 30 Nov. 2021.

Associated Place(s)

Artist: 

  • Heinrich Fuger

Image Date: 

1817