The Absence of Female Agency:
* Lack of Strong Female Characters: The novel features a limited number of female characters, and they are generally passive and lack agency.
* Dependence on Men: Women are largely defined by their relationships to men: Elizabeth as Victor's beloved, Justine as a victim, and even the monster's mother, the creature's creator, is only mentioned in passing.
* Objectification: Women are often presented as objects of desire, particularly Elizabeth, whose beauty and innocence are emphasized. The monster even views women as beautiful and desirable, highlighting the societal pressure placed on women to be attractive.
Women as Victims:
* The Role of Suffering: The women in the novel are often victims of violence or misfortune: Justine is wrongly accused and executed, Elizabeth is murdered, and even the monster's mother dies during childbirth.
* The Monster's Victimization: The monster, in his loneliness and rejection, longs for a female companion, emphasizing the powerlessness of women as objects of desire. His request for a female creature is ultimately denied by Victor, further highlighting the control men exert over women's lives.
Positive Representations:
* Elizabeth's Love and Kindness: Elizabeth embodies love, innocence, and compassion, providing a stark contrast to the monstrous creation.
* The Monster's Desire for Connection: The monster's yearning for a companion, despite his horrific appearance, speaks to the fundamental human need for love and connection.
* The Creature's Mother: While mentioned briefly, the creature's mother serves as a symbol of the power and resilience of women in the face of hardship. She is a figure of strength and sacrifice, as she gives birth to the monster and dies in childbirth.
Themes and Interpretations:
* The Dangers of Male Ambition: The novel explores the consequences of unchecked ambition, particularly in the case of Victor Frankenstein, who prioritizes his own scientific goals over the well-being of others.
* The Fear of the Feminine: Some critics argue that the novel reflects a deep-seated fear of the feminine, particularly in the monster's creation. The monster, who is rejected and ostracized, could be seen as a representation of the repressed feminine, leading to a violent outburst.
Overall:
The portrayal of women in *Frankenstein* is a complex and problematic aspect of the novel. While it showcases certain female strengths like love and resilience, it also highlights the societal constraints placed upon them, particularly the lack of agency and vulnerability to male dominance. The novel's portrayal of women reflects the social norms of the time, but also opens up possibilities for exploring the consequences of gender imbalance and societal expectations.