6. Trace light imagery. What are the connotations of light?

In this novel, light represents knowledge and discovery. Victor's goal or the goal of any scientist is to reach this light of discovery and reveal it to the world. This light is also portrayed as dangerous since Victor tried to gain too much of it or the knowledge, it led to destruction. Victor even said the "life and death appeared to [him] ideal bounds, which [he] shout break through, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world (32)." Victor believed that by shedding the light of knowledge into his dark world, that he could create change. Victor was entering a forbidden zone as he tried this because, there is only so much light or knowledge that a human can obtain. Any further knowledge could lead to disaster as Victor has found out the hard way. Victor finally discovered this light when he created his creature. When a light is shown, Victor sees his monster. "By the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open (35)." This portrayed an image of discovery. Light is associated with discovery in this image, as the creatures eyes open, Victor has fulfilled his goal of pouring "a torrent of light into his dark world."

Even Victor's creation realized the wonders and dangers of light during his first moments in this world. While Simon tells Victor of his adventures, he tells Victor of his first encounter with fire. He saw it as a beautiful thing; he says, "soon a gentle light stole over the heavens, and gave me a sensation of pleasure (71)." He quickly found it to be dangerous, "In my joy I thrust my hand into the live embers, but quickly drew it out again with a cry of pain (72)." This image suggests that knowledge is a good thing but when one gets too into it, it can cause danger. The fire gives warmth but when one touches it, one gets burned.