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Frankenstein

The theme of discovery is one of the central themes in the novel.   Mary Shelley draws many parallels between characters of the novel, their paths of discovery and interactions with society, which play a significant role in the development of these characters and their approach to knowledge.   Strong parallels are drawn between Walton and the monster—two male characters thirsty for discovery as well as acceptance in society.   Although Walton's and the monster's journeys of discovery are driven by desire and need to be accepted in society, both isolate themselves from it.   While Walton consciously isolates himself from society in which he wants to be accepted, the monster is pushed away from the Western world and pursues a utopian alternative.
Walton thirst for knowledge is driven by the need to be recognized by the society.   The lack of formal education in Walton's development shapes a negative perception of himself from which he is trying to break away by stepping on the path of knowledge and discovery with hopes to be accepted in the world.   Walton writes about it in the second letter to Margaret: "But it is still a greater evil to me that I am self-educated […] Now I am twenty-eight and am in reality more illiterate than many schoolboys of fifteen" (Shelley, Frankenstein, page 53).   Evidently Walton does not feel that he matches the image of a mature man created by the Western society of his time.   To match that image is to be accepted and recognized. The vital force behind Walton's journey to the North Pole, his path of discovery and ultimately his isolation is the need of social recognition. In the first letter to Margaret Walton writes: "And now, dear Margaret, do I not deserve to accomplish some great purpose.   My life might have been passed in ease and luxury; but I preferred glory to every enticement that wealth placed in my path".   Walton's search for glory and a greater purpose is evident as we learn about his past: "I imagined I also might find a niche...