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The ending of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein brings the novel’s conflicts to a tense and unresolved close. Understanding this conclusion helps students analyze themes of responsibility, ambition, and isolation for exams and essays.
The novel concludes in the Arctic, where Victor Frankenstein’s pursuit of the Creature ends with Victor’s death. Afterward, the Creature explains his suffering and guilt, then declares his intention to remove himself from the world. The story closes without clear justice or reconciliation, emphasizing emotional and moral consequences rather than victory.
Victor’s arc ends in exhaustion and regret, shaped by his refusal to take responsibility earlier. The Creature’s final appearance shows self-awareness and remorse, but also deep loneliness. Their parallel downfalls highlight how obsession and neglect can destroy both creator and creation.
The ending reinforces major themes: the danger of unchecked ambition, the need for accountability, and the human cost of isolation. Shelley avoids a neat resolution to stress that actions driven by pride can have lasting effects that cannot be undone.
When writing, connect the ending to earlier warnings in the novel about knowledge and responsibility. For class discussion, compare Victor’s choices with the Creature’s final decision. On quizzes, focus on setting, character outcomes, and how the ending supports the novel’s themes.
The novel does not show the Creature’s death directly. He states his intention to end his life, leaving the conclusion open and symbolic.
The Arctic setting reflects emotional coldness, isolation, and the extreme consequences of Victor’s obsession.
The ending suggests that creators must take responsibility for their actions and that ignoring moral duties leads to suffering for everyone involved.
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