Man vs. self

Definition

Man vs. self refers to the internal conflict experienced by a character as they grapple with their own emotions, thoughts, and moral dilemmas. This type of struggle is often portrayed as a fight against one's own fears, desires, guilt, or conscience, highlighting the complexities of human nature. In literature, this theme is pivotal as it illustrates the profound impact of personal choices on an individual's identity and actions, particularly in contexts involving science, ethics, and humanity's role in creation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein's internal conflict arises from his ambition to conquer nature by creating life, leading to feelings of guilt and responsibility for his creation's actions.
2. The creature experiences man vs. self struggles as he grapples with his identity, societal rejection, and the desire for companionship versus his inherent violent instincts.
3. The theme of man vs. self highlights the ethical implications of scientific exploration, showcasing the consequences of playing God without considering the moral responsibilities involved.
4. Both Victor and the creature face profound existential crises that force them to confront their choices and the impacts those choices have on their lives and relationships.
5. The narrative emphasizes how these internal battles ultimately lead to tragic outcomes, illustrating that failure to reconcile one's inner conflicts can result in devastating consequences for oneself and others.

Review Questions

• How does Victor Frankenstein's ambition contribute to his internal conflict throughout the story?
  • Victor Frankenstein's ambition to create life serves as the catalyst for his internal conflict. His drive leads him to disregard ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with his scientific pursuits. As he realizes the consequences of his actions—the suffering caused by his creation—he is plagued by guilt and fear. This internal struggle reflects the broader theme of man vs. self, showing how unchecked ambition can lead to self-destruction.
• Discuss the ways in which the creature's internal conflict represents the broader theme of alienation in Frankenstein.
  • The creature's internal conflict exemplifies alienation as he struggles between his innate desire for connection and the reality of being shunned by society. His feelings of loneliness and despair lead him to question his own nature and existence. This struggle illustrates how societal rejection can exacerbate one's internal conflicts, leading to tragic outcomes. The creature's battle against his own violent tendencies highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in overcoming personal struggles.
• Evaluate how Shelley uses man vs. self conflicts to critique the ethical implications of scientific advancement in Frankenstein.
  • Shelley employs man vs. self conflicts to critique the ethical implications of unchecked scientific advancement through both Victor and the creature. Victor’s internal battles reveal the dangers of pursuing knowledge without accountability or foresight, while the creature’s struggles highlight the moral responsibilities that come with creation. By illustrating how both characters face dire consequences due to their inability to confront their inner conflicts, Shelley warns against ignoring ethical considerations in the pursuit of innovation, prompting readers to reflect on their own moral compass in relation to progress.

Related terms

Internal Conflict: The psychological struggle within a character, often manifested as a choice between competing desires or values.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a character must choose between two or more conflicting ethical principles or actions.

Existential Crisis: A moment when an individual questions the very foundations of their life, often leading to feelings of confusion and doubt about their purpose and existence.