I will be focusing on Descartes’ theory that certain situations bring upon other situations which effect one’s perception on life.  “I will not hesitate, however, to avow my belief that it has been my singular good fortune to have early in life fallen in with certain tracks which have conducted me to consideration and maxims that gives me the means, as I think…” ( part 1, 3rd paragraph) Descartes is saying that because of a series of events that have happened in his life, he was put on a path . He is satisfied with his choice, that it has led him to questioning things and to bring about new interests.

“…as I think, of gradually augmenting my knowledge, and of raising it by little and little to the highest point which the mediocrity of my talents and the brief duration of my life will permit me to reach.”  (part1, 3 paragraph)  Because of his new discoveries,  it brought about a want to expand his knowledge to the fullest. He was relieved to be on the path of hunger and passion.

Descartes goes on a journey as well as Frankenstein goes on his own. It all begins with his father giving  him a dull negative comment on an interest of his. If his father could have given him a good reason  to not read the works of Agrippa he would of tossed it. Instead it made Frankenstein extremely curious and motivated him to keep learning about many different ideas in the science world. From there, another impact in his life was the thunderstorm him and his family went through. After the storm a tree in their backyard was destroyed. “…and nothing remain but a blasted stump.”  (ch.2) This brought about a man of great research in natural philosophy. He studied the tree to end up with a few theories for lighting. Victor was fascinated and after many other little events, it all led him to the university of Ingolstadt. At this school he begins to learn many useful things that lead him to his destiny. He made a promise to himself that he would make this project his occupation. Frankenstein loves his path so far and wants to soak up as much education he can to build his dream. His determination pays off and it seams like he has reached his peak of brilliance because the monster comes alive. He reached the stars and in a quick second he is disgusted by it.  Descartes talks about how everyone chooses a path that benefits their skills. Frankenstein would agree with Descartes but then mention that it is dangerous because you don’t know how much power you possess. After knowledge is power.

“Thus ended  a day memorable to me: it decided my future destiny.” (ch. 3) Descartes says that everyone has events that shape and shift their lives. It leads them to were they are meant to be. He was satisfied with his. I’m not so sure he would say the same for Victor.  Victor has brought even more questions now because of his creation. His dream has changed his perception once again. It is actually never ending. That is why Descartes is content with his journey because others have a more complicated path.