IndexVictor's selfish ambitionVictor's careless actionsVictor's refusal to take responsibilityConclusionBibliographyWho is the real villain of Frankenstein? This question has been debated by scholars and readers since Mary Shelley's novel was first published in 1818. While some might argue that the creature, with its violent actions and thirst for revenge, is the main antagonist of the story, closer examination reveals that Victor Frankenstein himself is the real villain. Through his selfish ambition, careless actions, and refusal to take responsibility for his creation, Victor proves to be the driving force behind the ensuing tragedy and chaos. This essay will explore the various aspects of Victor's character and actions that support the claim that he is the true villain of Frankenstein. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Victor's Selfish Ambition One of the key factors contributing to Victor's wickedness is his selfish ambition. From a young age, Victor is driven by a desire for knowledge and power, which ultimately leads him to create the creature. Victor's obsession with science and his belief that he can "penetrate the recesses of nature and show how it works in its hiding places" (Shelley 27) blinds him to the potential consequences of his actions. Instead of considering the ethical implications of creating life, Victor focuses solely on his own glory and pursuit of knowledge. Victor's ambition is further highlighted by his reaction to the creature's existence. Instead of taking responsibility for his creation, Victor abandons the creature and refuses to acknowledge his role in its creation. He is more interested in preserving his own reputation and protecting himself from the consequences of his actions than in the creature's well-being. This is evident in his response when the creature approaches him for guidance and companionship: "Begone! I break my promise; I will never make another like you, equal in deformity and wickedness" (Shelley 100). Victor's rejection of the creature is a clear demonstration of his egocentrism and lack of empathy. Victor's Careless Actions In addition to his selfish ambition, Victor's careless actions further solidify his status as the story's true villain. After creating the creature, Victor abandons it, leaving it to fend for itself in a world that rejects and despises it. This negligent act sets in motion a series of events that ultimately lead to tragedy and destruction. The creature, left to its own devices, is consumed by rage and seeks revenge against its creator. Victor's negligence is also evident in the way he treats his loved ones. Throughout the novel, Victor consistently prioritizes his own desires and ambitions over the well-being of those around him. He isolates himself from family and friends, neglecting their emotional needs and failing to provide them with the support they deserve. This neglect causes loved ones to suffer and further contributes to the chaos and tragedy that occurs. Victor's Refusal to Take Responsibility Perhaps the most damning evidence of Victor's evil is his refusal to take responsibility for his creation. Despite being the one who brought the creature to life, Victor consistently avoids acknowledging his role in its existence and the consequences that come with it. He constantly blames others for the creature's actions and refuses to accept any responsibility for the havoc it causes. An example of Victor's refusal to take responsibility is his reaction to death, 2013.