What is the central theme of Mary Shelley’s "Frankenstein"?

The central theme of Mary Shelley’s "Frankenstein" revolves around the dangers of unchecked ambition and the quest for knowledge. Throughout the novel, Victor Frankenstein embodies the archetype of the ambitious scientist who pursues knowledge to its extremes, ultimately leading to dire consequences. His desire to transcend natural boundaries and create life reflects a profound obsession with scientific advancement without considering the moral implications of such acts.

Victor’s ambition results in the creation of the Creature, which ultimately brings destruction not only to Victor’s life but also to those around him. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the potential perils that can arise when individuals seek power and knowledge without responsibility or foresight. This theme resonates throughout the text, as both Victor and the Creature experience profound suffering due to Victor's reckless pursuit of knowledge.

In contrast, the other themes listed—such as the power of love and friendship, the futility of war and conflict, and the importance of family and tradition—though present to varying degrees in the novel, do not capture its core message as effectively as the consequences of unchecked ambition and the relentless quest for knowledge do. The novel primarily critiques the Enlightenment belief in the idea that human reason and science are inherently good when unchecked ambition reveals the darker outcomes