Frankenstein and Walton: Fast Friendship

Robert Walton

After beginning to read Mary Shelley’s famous novel Frankenstein, similarities between Victor Frankenstein, the creator of the classic monster, and Robert Walton, a hopeful explorer, became apparent. The most obvious comparison is the two men’s obsession with attaining a goal that has never before been accomplished. While Frankenstein hoped to restore life to a dead body, Walton wishes to reach the North Pole. Although both of these goals are very dangerous and could have drastic consequences, neither man can let go of the obsession they have formed. Furthermore, both men neglect their relationships with their families in order to attain their dreams. When Frankenstein leaves for college, he does not return to his family for six years because of his creation of the monster. The time it takes to study and create the creature and then the time he loses when it goes missing prevents him from communicating with his loved ones. Walton also leaves family behind for his goal, as is noted by the multiple letters he mails to his sister. Quite comfortable with the idea that he might never see her again, Walton never ceases to remind his sister, Margaret Saville, that he might die during this voyage. He writes to his sister, “I love you very tenderly. Remember me with affection, should you never hear from me again,” (Shelley, 6). Although people do put themselves at risk on a daily basis, both Frankenstein and Walton walk into the face of danger, disregarding the opinions of their families and the effect their disappearance has on them.