Study Notes on 'The Monstrosity of Language: Frankenstein and The Descent into Cultural Misrepresentation'

Overview of the Article

  • Author: Diandra Alvarado, Elmira College
  • Title: The Monstrosity of Language: Frankenstein and The Descent into Cultural Misrepresentation
  • Published in The Oswald Review, Volume 19 (2017)
  • Key Themes: Monstrosity, Language, Cultural Misrepresentation

Introduction

  • Exploration of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and its connection to John Milton's "Paradise Lost."
  • Discussion on how both texts prompt reflections on creation, responsibility, and self-identity.

Themes and Analysis

  • Frankenstein and Paradise Lost

    • Victor Frankenstein exhibits god-like ambitions leading to tragic consequences.
    • The Monster, like Milton's Eve, is marginalized by its creator, leading to its despair and horrid identity.

  • Language as Power

    • The Monster's acquisition of language serves as a tool for negotiation of identity and emotional connection.
    • Language allows the Monster to express itself, aiming for compassion despite its exterior.

  • Cultural Significance of Language

    • Brooks asserts that the symbolic order of language creates social hierarchies, impacting self-identity.
    • The Monster perceives itself through cultural narratives, internalizing biblical and classical expectations, which restrict its identity.

Influence of "Paradise Lost"

  • Impact on the Monster

    • The Monster identifies with Lucifer from Milton's work, leading to a skewed self-perception as inherently evil.
    • Language shapes its experience and understanding of self-worth and morality.

  • Impact on Victor

    • Victor Frankenstein grapples with identities of Adam and Lucifer, ultimately failing as a creator due to culturally molded biases.
    • His perception of beauty and monstrosity is influenced by religious and philosophical language.

Critique of Language

  • Alvarado discusses how language creates predefined roles that limit both the Monster and Victor.
  • Emphasis on the need for expanding the boundaries of language to incorporate diverse identities and self-expressions.

Conclusion

  • Shelley critiques the cultural heritage of language that marginalizes identities in her era.
  • The narrative serves as a warning of the dangers posed by rigid cultural definitions of self, suggesting a need for more inclusive forms of expression to foster growth in knowledge and identity.