Table of ContentsThe conflict between society and the individualThe conflict between man and natureThe conflict between knowledge and ignoranceConclusionFrankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a novel filled with external conflicts that contribute to the overall theme and plot of the story. These conflicts arise from a variety of sources, including societal norms, personal ambitions, and the struggle for power. When examining these conflicts, it becomes clear that they play a crucial role in shaping the characters and the narrative. This essay will explore Frankenstein's external conflicts and analyze their implications on the story, ultimately highlighting the consequences of these conflicts on the characters and society as a whole. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Conflict Between Society and the Individual One of the main external conflicts in Frankenstein is the clash between societal expectations and individual desires. Victor Frankenstein, the protagonist, faces immense pressure from society to conform to its standards and expectations. However, he is driven by his personal ambition to create life and pursue scientific discovery, which directly contradicts societal boundaries. This conflict is evident in Victor's quest for knowledge and his decision to create the monster. Victor's ambition to create life is a direct challenge to societal norms, because it goes against the natural order of things. Shelley describes this conflict through Victor's words: "Life and death seemed to me ideal boundaries, which I must first cross and pour a torrent of light into our dark world" (Shelley, 56). Victor's desire to push the boundaries of science and transcend societal boundaries ultimately leads to disastrous consequences. The conflict between society and the individual is a recurring theme in Frankenstein, highlighting the tension between personal ambitions and societal expectations. The conflict between man and nature. Another important external conflict in Frankenstein is the struggle between man and nature. Shelley depicts nature as both an awesome and dangerous force, capable of both nurturing and destroying life. This conflict is illustrated by Victor's creation of the monster, which disrupts the natural order of things and questions the boundaries of life and death. The monster, born from Victor's scientific experiment, is an unnatural creation that is rejected by both society and nature. The monster's existence represents a violation of the natural order, leading to conflict between it and the world around it. This conflict is highlighted in the monster's words: "I should be your Adam, but I am instead the fallen angel" (Shelley, 100). The monster's desire for acceptance and subsequent isolation reflects the conflict between man and nature, highlighting the consequences of defying natural boundaries. The Conflict of Knowledge versus Ignorance A third external conflict in Frankenstein revolves around the tension between knowledge and ignorance. Throughout the novel, Shelley explores the dangers of uncontrolled knowledge and the consequences of playing God. Victor's relentless quest for scientific discovery leads to the creation of the monster, which ultimately brings him misery and destruction. The conflict between knowledge and ignorance is highlighted in Victor's realization after creating the monster: "Learn from me, if not by my precepts, then at least by my example, how far the acquisition of knowledge is dangerous" (Shelley, 92). Victor's warning serves as a warning of the dangers.