Frankenstein Key Theme: Ambition (AQA GCSE English Literature) : Revision Note

Ambition timeline  

The theme of ambition in Frankenstein:

What are the elements of ambition in Frankenstein?

Ambition is presented in Frankenstein in the following ways:

• Victor’s arrogance: Victor’s relentless quest to create life demonstrates his reckless ambition to surpass natural limits, and his hubris ultimately leads to destruction

• Consequences of ambition: Both Victor and Walton ignore warnings and pursue their goals at great personal risk, showing how unchecked ambition can blind individuals to consequences

• Isolation: Shelley suggests that the pursuit of ambition can result in profound loneliness, as demonstrated by the creature’s desire for companionship rather than knowledge

• Playing God: Victor's determination to control nature results in tragedy, reinforcing the idea that ambition can be a destructive force and suggesting that there are terrible consequences for those who try to play God

The impact of ambition on characters

Ambition is a double-edged sword in Frankenstein: it drives characters towards greatness but also leads to their ruin. Mary Shelley primarily uses the character of Victor Frankenstein to explore both the dangers and the allure of unchecked ambition, as Victor’s relentless pursuit of knowledge devastates his family, his personal life and ultimately destroys Victor himself. Other characters are also shaped by ambition in different ways. Walton and the Creature both highlight the fine line between progress and destruction, while Elizabeth and Henry Clerval are both innocent victims of Victor’s reckless pursuit of glory:

Why does Shelley use the theme of ambition in his novel?

1.  Contemporary fears

• As scientific advancements were rapidly progressing in Shelley’s time, Frankenstein raises ethical questions about the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition

• The novel is not against scientific progress, but suggests that human ambition must be weighed against the potential consequences

2. Literary context 

• Shelley draws on the Greek myth of Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods and was punished: 

  • Like the myth, Frankenstein warns readers that seeking god-like power leads to suffering and destruction

3. The dangers of isolation

• Victor’s obsession with scientific discovery causes him to neglect his family and friends, leading to loneliness and despair

• Walton’s obsession with exploration distances him from his crew, who eventually rebel against his leadership

Exam-style questions on the themes of ambition

Try planning a response to the following essay questions as part of your revision of ambition: 

• How does Shelley present the theme of ambition in Frankenstein?

• How does Shelley use Victor Frankenstein’s character to represent the dangers of ambition?