Knowledge in Frankenstein

Victor wants to know how life works. Walton wants to find the Pole. Both are warned. Neither listens until it is too late.

The quotes

8 quotes, in the order they happen.

What may not be expected in a country of eternal light?

Walton · Letter 1 · ambition · knowledge · nature

Walton dreams of the North Pole as a place of endless light. He wants glory. So did Victor.

You seek for knowledge and wisdom, as I once did; and I ardently hope that the gratification of your wishes may not be a serpent to sting you

Victor · Letter 4 · knowledge · ambition

Victor warns Walton. Wanting to know too much can bite you like a snake. It bit him.

The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine.

Victor · Chapter 2 · knowledge · ambition

As a boy Victor wanted to know how everything worked. That wanting is where it starts.

Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate

Victor · Chapter 2 · knowledge

Science decided his life, he says. Not him.

So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein—more, far more, will I achieve

Victor · Chapter 3 · ambition · knowledge

Others have done a lot. He will do more. He wants to be first and biggest.

Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge

Victor · Chapter 4 · knowledge · ambition

Victor's warning. Do not do what I did. Knowing too much is dangerous.

Man," I cried, "how ignorant art thou in thy pride of wisdom!

Creature · Chapter 20 · knowledge · ambition

You think you are wise. You know nothing. The creature to his maker.

Seek happiness in tranquillity and avoid ambition

Victor · Chapter 24 · ambition · knowledge

Victor's last advice to Walton. Be calm. Do not want too much. He did not take it himself.