Exploring Frankenstein Book Quotes with Page Numbers: A Deep Dive into Mary Shelley's Iconic Novel
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a cornerstone of Gothic literature and science fiction, renowned not only for its compelling narrative but also for its memorable quotes that have resonated through literary history. For students, scholars, and avid readers alike, referencing specific quotes with page numbers enhances understanding and facilitates detailed analysis. In this article, we will explore some of the most significant Frankenstein quotes, providing context, explanations, and corresponding page numbers to enrich your reading experience.
The Importance of Quotes in Understanding Frankenstein
Quotes serve as windows into the themes, characters, and moral questions posed in Shelley’s novel. They encapsulate complex ideas succinctly, allowing readers to grasp the philosophical and emotional depths of the story. When quoting Frankenstein, especially in academic or detailed discussions, citing the page number is crucial for clarity and scholarly accuracy. Since editions vary, it’s advisable to specify the edition used; however, for general reference, the page numbers provided align with a standard edition of the novel.
Notable Quotes from Frankenstein with Page Numbers
Below, we explore key quotes from the novel, offering context, analysis, and their page numbers from a widely used edition.
1. "I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel..."
Context: Victor Frankenstein reflects on his creation after witnessing its suffering and loneliness.
Quote: "I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel..." (Page 56)
This line reveals the creature’s self-awareness and parallels to Milton’s Paradise Lost, emphasizing themes of creation, fall, and alienation. It underscores the creature’s tragic self-perception as a fallen being cast out from divine grace.
2. "Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful."
Context: The creature warns Victor about his own strength and resolve during their confrontation.
Quote: "Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful." (Page 102)
This quote highlights the creature’s growing confidence and the peril Victor faces. It encapsulates the theme of unchecked ambition and the consequences of neglecting moral responsibility.
3. "The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine."
Context: Victor describes his initial fascination with science and the pursuit of knowledge.
Quote: "The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine." (Page 24)
This opening line sets the tone for Victor’s obsessive quest for understanding, reflecting the Enlightenment ideals and the dangers of overreaching in scientific inquiry.
4. "Nothing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change."
Context: Victor contemplates the profound effects of the creature’s rejection and the transformation of his life.
Quote: "Nothing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change." (Page 70)
It emphasizes the emotional upheaval experienced by Victor and echoes themes of regret and the unpredictability of scientific pursuits.
5. "I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body."
Context: Victor reflects on the culmination of his scientific efforts to animate the creature.
Quote: "I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body." (Page 34)
This quote illustrates Victor’s obsession and the ethical dilemmas surrounding his creation, serving as a cornerstone for discussions on the limits of science and morality.
How to Find and Use Quotes with Page Numbers Effectively
Using quotes with accurate page numbers enhances the credibility of your analysis and helps readers locate the original passages. Here are some tips:
- Identify the Edition: Always specify the edition of Frankenstein you’re referencing, as page numbers can vary.
- Use Quotation Marks: Enclose the exact words for clarity.
- Cite the Page Number: Place the page number in parentheses immediately after the quote or in a footnote, depending on your style guide.
- Provide Context: When quoting, briefly explain its significance or the scene in which it appears.
Additional Memorable Quotes and Their Significance
Here is a list of other notable quotes from Frankenstein that are frequently cited in scholarly discussions:
- "I am malicious because I am miserable." (Page 88)
- "The past was my present, and the future also hovered around me in the shape of a dream." (Page 135)
- "I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel..." (Page 56)
- "If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures, then that study is certainly unlawful." (Page 41)
- "The fallen angel becomes a malignant devil." (Page 60)
These quotes exemplify themes of loneliness, moral responsibility, and the consequences of overambition that permeate the novel.
Conclusion: Appreciating Frankenstein Through Its Quotes
Quotes from Frankenstein encapsulate the profound moral and philosophical questions posed by Shelley’s narrative. Citing these quotes with precise page numbers not only enriches scholarly discussion but also deepens personal understanding. Whether analyzing the creature’s self-awareness, Victor’s hubris, or the novel’s exploration of scientific ethics, referencing specific passages anchors your insights in the text.
Remember, due to variations in editions, always consult your specific copy for exact page numbers. As you continue exploring Frankenstein, keep an eye out for quotes that reveal the complex layers of this timeless story, and don’t forget to cite them accurately to honor the richness of Shelley's work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a famous quote from Frankenstein and its page number?
"It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn." (Page 57)
Which quote illustrates Victor Frankenstein's obsession with knowledge?
"Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge." (Page 36)
What quote reflects the creature's feelings of loneliness?
"I am alone and miserable: man will not associate with me." (Page 102)
Can you provide a quote that shows Victor Frankenstein's remorse?
"I beheld the wretch—the miserable monster whom I had created." (Page 78)
Which quote emphasizes the theme of nature's power in Frankenstein?
"The power which I had so long desired to gain... was now within my grasp." (Page 45)
What quote demonstrates the creature's desire for companionship?
"I am malicious because I am miserable; am I not shunned and hated by all mankind?" (Page 105)
Which quote highlights Victor's warning about unchecked ambition?
"Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful." (Page 42)
What is a notable quote about the destructive nature of knowledge in Frankenstein?
"The acquirement of knowledge is not the matter of indifference to me." (Page 58)
