Parenting In Frankenstein And Ghosts

6 Pages 1553 Words

Parenting is an on going theme in all stories; it is the very thing that defines a character. Whether it is good, bad, or no parenting at all it remains an issue and is what shapes and builds a character through the transition from childhood to adulthood. Mary Shelley’s, Frankenstein and Henrik Ibsen’s, Ghosts, although share parenting as a theme, both have very distinct ways parenting is approached in each story.
In Frankenstein there is a lack of good parenting from both mother and father. Although it is shown that Caroline, Victor’s mother, and Alphonse, Victor’s father are protective and caring parents it also shows the flaws of being too extreme. The Family is very open, close, and functional. Victor’s parents have created a fantasy world for him. A world where he can do no wrong and have what he desires.
Caroline has the stronger relationship with Victor out of the parents. She is the one he turns too when needed and she seems to be the one who has the most influence in the decisions for Victor. For example when the Frankenstein family adopts Elizabeth without the consent of Alphonse. It is not till after Caroline does all that he becomes aware of the situation. It seems as if Alphonse has no other choice but to except the decision Caroline has made. This is also a perfect example on how Victor is raised in a fantasy world; the adoption of Elizabeth is a present to Victor. It is Caroline’s plan for the marriage of Victor and Elisabeth and it is not till her death that she reveals it to them.
On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. She joined the hands of Elizabeth and myself: my firmest hopes

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of the future happiness were placed on the prospect of your union (Shelley, 49).
Alphonse however has a weaker relationship. It is said that he was very caring also but nothing as far as being extreme. He was Honorable and well respected man who gave up his career to rai...