Table of ContentsIntroductionBody ParagraphConclusionIntroductionJohn Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost and Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein are seminal works of the Western literary canon. Although separated by nearly two centuries, these texts share striking thematic and narrative similarities. Both works delve into the complexities of creation, rebellion and the quest for knowledge. In Paradise Lost, Milton tells the biblical story of the fall of man, emphasizing themes of disobedience and the consequences of defying divine authority. On the other hand, Frankenstein explores the ramifications of scientific overreach and human hubris through the tragic story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. This essay will compare and contrast these two works, focusing on their thematic parallels, their character archetypes, and the moral questions they pose about creation and responsibility. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Body Paragraph One of the most significant thematic parallels between Paradise Lost and Frankenstein is the motif of creation and fall. In Paradise Lost, Milton presents the creation of humanity and the subsequent fall from grace as a consequence of disobedience and defiance of God. Adam and Eve's transgression leads to their expulsion from the Garden of Eden, marking the beginning of human suffering and mortality. Similarly, in Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein's attempt to play God by creating life leads to catastrophic results. His creation, often called the Monster, becomes a symbol of the dangers inherent in humanity's quest for divine power. Both texts underline the danger of excessive ambition and the ethical limits which must govern the act of creation. Through these stories, Milton and Shelley warn against the hubris of attempting to transcend human limitations. The characters of Satan in Paradise Lost and Victor Frankenstein in Frankenstein serve as archetypal figures of rebellion and ambition. Satan's rebellion against God is motivated by his pride and desire for autonomy, ultimately leading to his damnation. Milton depicts Satan as a complex character whose defiance and subsequent fall provoke both admiration and pity. Likewise, Victor Frankenstein's quest for knowledge and his ambition to conquer death reflect Satan's insurrection. Victor's creation of the Monster can be seen as an act of rebellion against the natural order, reflecting his desire to transcend human limitations. Both characters face dire consequences due to their actions, highlighting the moral and ethical dilemmas associated with their quest for power. Through these characters, Milton and Shelley explore the destructive potential of unchecked ambition and the tragic consequences of defying natural and divine laws. Another point of comparison lies in the representation of created beings – Adam and Eve in Paradise Lost and the monster in Frankenstein. In Paradise Lost, Adam and Eve are depicted as innocent beings who succumb to temptation, which leads them to fall from grace. Their story is one of lost innocence and the harsh realities of human existence after the fall. In contrast, Frankenstein's monster is a being created by unnatural means, lacking the innocence associated with Adam and Eve. Despite his grotesque appearance, the Monster initially displays a desire for companionship and understanding. His gradual transformation into a vengeful being is the result of rejection.