Human Fulfillment Of The Pursuit Of Knowledge - 2010 Words

The critically acclaimed novel written by Mary Shelley and published in 1818, delves into a multitude of universal themes throughout the text. One value that drives the plot forward, and leads to character development is the theme, human fulfillment of the pursuit of knowledge. It is Dr. Frankenstein s unquenchable thirst for knowledge that leads to the future predicaments that ensue after the Creature is conceived and future moral dilemma. An example of Dr. Frankenstein s disposition that lends itself to the validity of the stated theme, is as follows; â€Å"It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things, or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my inquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or, in its highest sense, the physical secrets of the world† (Shelley 30). The doctor s preoccupation with his studies, that results in controversy over the suitable nature of such an unobtainable desire, is clearly exemplified in the quote, â€Å"If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind† (45). B. Romanticism Characteristics: The fictitious novel, Frankenstein, embodies a majority of the characteristics that compose Romanticism. Frankenstein epitomizes the natureShow MoreRelatedBuddha’s Ceasing of Woe Effectively Constitutes the Good Life as Compared to Epicurus’ Theory of Pursuit of Pleasure1739 Words   |  7 PagesLife as Compared to Epicurus’ Theory of Pursuit of Pleasure I will argue that although Epicurus holds validity in his argument on achieving happiness through the pursuit and fulfillment of pleasures, it is Buddha’s method of the ceasing of woe through following the eightfold path to enlightenment that most comprehensively constitutes the good life. I will first explain Epicurus’ vision of the good life through his invitation to join him in studying the pursuit of pleasure; and then argue against theRead MoreThe Question Of Life s Meaning1488 Words   |  6 Pagesmeaning, he stated, One s life reflects his will, whereby, the will is an irrational, painful, and aimless drive (Klemke and Cahn 45). 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