Injustice
English Lit: Edexcel A Level Frankenstein, topic 6.1.5
Injustice
It could be argued that three forms of injustice are presented in the novel: natural injustice, legal injustice and social injustice.
William Godwin
- Shelley’s father, William Godwin, believed that social institutions were inherently unjust and that injustice creates crime in society.
- This is why he proposed radical changes to politics and supported the ideals of the French Revolution.
Justine
- These Godwinian theories can be seen in the novel through the story of Justine and the miscarriage of justice that ends in her execution.
Religion
- The fact that she admits falsely to the murder before her execution, in fear that she will not achieve salvation, could also be seen as a criticism of the oppressive nature of religion.
Other injustice
- Victor’s actions which lead to so many deaths can be viewed as unjust, as can the suffering of the Monster, who is abandoned by his creator.