How does Frankenstein continue to deal with the paradox of language as a
blessing and a curse? Is it a distinctly human trait that language can fail us or
even jeopardize our well-being, rather than solely aid our survival?
Language plays several crucial roles throughout Frankenstein. Both Victor and the Creature seek out the
blessings involved with language and find overall comfort in language. For example, Victor remains sane
despite his failure and loneliness associated with making the creature. This is done using a journal, which
ultimately allowed him to remain focused and determined. Moreover, the Creature dedicates his time to
language after he is rejected from society based on his appearance. The Creature realizes the blessings
associated with language by reading and paying close attention to the spoken language that surrounds
him. This is apparent as the Creature states, “I perceived that the words they spoke sometimes produced
pleasure or pain, smiles or sadness, in the minds and countenances of the hearers. This was a godlike
