In Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein: The Modern Prometheus, the theory of learning through experience is portrayed. Frankenstein portrays the life of a monster that is created by Victor Frankenstein from the day it comes to life. Victor Frankenstein becomes interested in the creation of life, and begins to study anatomy and death. “To examine the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death. I became acquainted with the science of anatomy, but this was not sufficient; I must also observe the natural decay and corruption of the human body. (Shelly Chapter 4).

When Frankenstein’s monster came to life, it was basically like being an infant; not knowing basics of life. “My eyes became accustomed to the light and to perceive objects in their right forms; I distinguished the insect from the herb, and by degrees, one herb from another. I found that the sparrow uttered none but harsh notes, whilst those of the blackbird and thrush were sweet and enticing.” (Shelly Chapter 11). The monster had taught himself the difference between insects and herbs, and then he taught himself the differences between different herbs.

“In my joy I thrust my hand into the live embers, but quickly drew it out again with a cry of pain. How strange, I thought, that the same cause should produce such opposite effects! I examined the materials of the fire, and to my joy found it to be composed of wood. I quickly collected some branches, but they were wet and would not burn. I was pained at this and sat still watching the operation of the fire. The wet wood which I had placed near the heat dried and itself became inflamed. (Shelly Chapter 11). While searching for shelter and warmth, the monster discovers a fire. Not knowing anything about fire, he feels the heat coming from it. He places his hand into the fire, and is burned by it. From now experiencing the pain as a result of touching the fire, the monster now learns not to touch fire. The monster also learns that the wet wood will not burn, but dry wood will.