There have been many debates around the world as to whether the practice of euthanasia is ethical or unethical. People who are suffering are more likely to support euthanasia. Those who never have to experience a level of pain and suffering that would cause a person to want to end their life could never understand the reason why a person would consider this option. Fictional characters are used to express human suffering, such as those found in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. There are several modern themes such as genetic engineering, cloning, the treatment of the disenfranchised, and playing God highlighted in Shelley's book, but this article focuses on the less common theme of euthanasia. involving the main character, Dr. Victor Frankenstein. the Greek word meaning “good death” (“literary Euthanasia”). In general, euthanasia refers to causing a person's death to end their pain and suffering, often in cases of terminal illness. Some call this “mercy killings.” There are two types of euthanasia: passive and active. Passive or voluntary euthanasia refers to the refusal of life-saving treatments or medical technologies to prolong life. For example, a patient has the right to refuse medical treatment. They also have the right to refuse resuscitation if they need to be placed on respiratory assistance. Active or involuntary euthanasia refers to providing someone with the means to commit suicide or assisting them to commit suicide (“euthanasia”). Discovery. There are several important ethical questions related to euthanasia. The first is to grant terminally ill and suffering people the right to choose death. Should these people continue to suffer even though they are truly ba...... middle of paper ...... which pushes him to consider death as an alternative to suffering. This chapter helps to highlight some current themes regarding ethical issues of euthanasia, such as the difference between active and passive euthanasia. Also whether or not a healthcare professional should assist with the process and under what circumstances. Discussions about euthanasia will likely continue in the future. This character highlights some of the issues. Works Cited “Euthanasia”. Discovery of the collection. Internet. May 2, 2011. “Euthanasia”. Literary reference center. Internet. May 2, 2011. Kiliff, Sarah. “The Compassionate Killers.” News week. Internet. May 2, 2011. Rayner, Claire. “You say murder, I say euthanasia.” Literary reference center. Internet. May 2, 2011. Shelley, Mary. “Frankenstein.” Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1916. “What the Doctor Did.” » News week. Internet. May 2 2011.