Quotes from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein That Affect Tone

When it comes to literature, the tone of a narrative can be as powerful as the story itself. In Mary Shelley’s classic novel, “Frankenstein,” the tone is shaped by a series of quotes that resonate deeply with readers. These quotes not only reflect the characters’ emotions and thoughts but also contribute to the overall atmosphere of the story. Let’s delve into some of these quotes and explore how they affect the tone of the novel.

Isolation and Despair

One of the most poignant quotes in “Frankenstein” is when Victor Frankenstein reflects on his creation: “I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.” This quote, taken from Chapter 5, captures the isolation and despair that Victor feels as he realizes the consequences of his actions. The use of the word “solely” emphasizes his dedication and the loneliness of his pursuit. This tone sets the stage for the rest of the novel, where Victor’s isolation becomes a central theme.

Another quote that highlights the theme of isolation is when Victor describes his time in the Arctic: “I was alone, and I was wretched.” This quote, from Chapter 17, conveys the extreme loneliness and despair that Victor experiences during his journey. The repetition of “I was” emphasizes his sense of solitude, and the word “wretched” adds a layer of emotional depth to the tone.

Madness and Desperation

The quote “I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body” also reflects the madness and desperation that drives Victor. As he delves deeper into his experiment, he becomes consumed by his obsession, leading to a state of madness. This quote captures the intensity of his pursuit and the lengths he is willing to go to achieve his goal.

Another quote that highlights the theme of madness is when Victor describes his creation: “I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.” This quote, from Chapter 5, captures the desperation and urgency in Victor’s voice. The repetition of “for the sole purpose” emphasizes his single-minded focus, and the word “infusing” suggests a sense of urgency and desperation.

Loss and Regret

The quote “I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body” also reflects the loss and regret that Victor experiences. As he realizes the consequences of his actions, he is filled with remorse and a deep sense of loss. This quote, from Chapter 5, captures the weight of his decision and the pain that follows.

Another quote that highlights the theme of loss is when Victor reflects on his creation: “I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.” This quote, from Chapter 5, captures the depth of Victor’s regret. The repetition of “for the sole purpose” emphasizes his dedication and the weight of his decision, while the word “infusing” suggests a sense of loss and regret.

Table: Quotes and Their Impact on Tone

Quote	Impact on Tone
“I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.”	Captures the intensity of Victor’s pursuit and the lengths he is willing to go to achieve his goal.
“I was alone, and I was wretched.”	Conveys the extreme loneliness and despair that Victor experiences during his journey.
“I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.”	Highlights the desperation and urgency in Victor’s voice as he describes his creation.
“I had worked hard for nearly two years for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body.”	Captures the depth of Victor’s regret and the weight of his decision.