This is a response to Tasnima Ahmed’s post “The Struggle to Fit in” which can be found here

Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus, is a novel that depicts a “monsters” growth and knowledge through his experience. However, this monster didn’t quite get the same treatment as a regular human being would. Tasnima recalls the creature “left in isolation.” I agree with her because most of Frankenstein’s life growing up, he experienced loneliness and isolation. “It was dark when I awoke; I felt cold also, and half frightened, as it were, instinctively, finding myself so desolate.” (Shelly, 16). According to Shelly, Frankenstein woke up in dark cold mornings to no surroundings and was frightened because of it. Tasnima continues to explain that the monster had no knowledge of everything because he was isolated. However, the monster began to use his experience and surroundings to gain his knowledge. Tasnima uses accurate evidence to back up her claim of the monster building knowledge. She says “through his journey of getting food, he learns his hierarchy in society.” I found this point to be very interesting because it is quite amazing how a monster who knew nothing about life suddenly begins to understand his role in society.

Tasnima’s point on how the novel emphasizes that knowledge is dangerous is quite fascinating. Many people can use knowledge in the wrong and selfish way. Tasnima brings up the parts where the monster retaliates and seeks revenge on humans because they continued to isolate him. His eager to learn and become a “fit” within society rose his anger and it led to many deaths. In comparison to the book Emile, Frankenstein shares the same approach in terms of education. Rousseau believes that a man should bring him-self within a society once he is well educated. Tasnima brings up a quote from Emile which was quite exemplary. “He us alone in the midst of human society, he depends on himself alone” (Rousseau, 23.) She explains that although a monster is physically isolated, he uses himself as the motive to learn more about the world. Once someone is isolated, they can’t help but to learn more about the world.

Overall, I agreed with many of the points that Tasnima made throughout her close reading post. She used detailed evidence supporting her claims and I was able to expand on her points as well. She also made a good comparison with Rousseau’s novel Emile which I found quite fascinating. Nonetheless, Tasnima’s points about Frankenstein’s isolation and eager for knowledge was accurate and interesting.