Question

Why doesn't Victor speak the truth about the murderer in the book 'Frankenstein'?

Answer 1

Victor remains silent about the true murderer due to a mix of guilt, fear, and internal conflict, resulting in the tragic unraveling of the narrative in Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein'.

Step-by-step explanation:

Victor Frankenstein's reluctance to speak the truth about the murderer in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is rooted in the complexity of his emotions and actions towards his creation.

His silence can possibly be explained by his own sense of guilt, fear of not being believed, and the horror of having to admit his part in the creation of a being that became a murderer.

Moreover, by not speaking the truth, Victor is attempting to deal with the internal conflict and the consequences of his own actions, which contrasts his initial ambition with the grim realities of his achievements.

His failure to inform others about the true nature of the murderer intensifies the tragic elements of the story, as his own secrets and guilt incubate the disaster that unfolds.

Victor's character is a study of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing god, paralleling themes in other Gothic novels that explore the monsters lurking within society.

Answer 2

Victor Frankenstein does not reveal the truth about the murderer because he is weighed down by guilt and the realization of the consequences of his own actions, coupled with the potential disbelief and damage to his reputation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, Victor keeps silent about the murderer because he struggles with the immense guilt and responsibility for creating the monster. He faces a profound moral dilemma; if he speaks the truth, he risks disbelief and ridicule, possibly damaging his reputation and casting doubt on his sanity. Moreover, by admitting the monster he created is a murderer, he must confront the ethical implications of his own scientific ambition and the consequences of playing God. Victor's decision to remain silent can be interpreted as a reflection of his inner turmoil and the horror of the realization that his creation has gone beyond his control. The novel does not provide a clear reason for Victor's actions but rather invites readers to explore the complexity of his character, including the potential flaws in his personality and goals.