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Essay / Examples of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in Frankenstein
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a theory that describes the stages of internal growth and development in humans; the theory states that the most basic physical need must be met before emotional and psychological needs can be properly met. A perfect example of this theory is when Frankenstein's monster finds refuge in the hovel next to a house; by finding shelter and food, he meets his most basic needs and can become aware of his deeper needs for emotion and human connection. This pivotal moment draws our attention to the humanity of the monster and the duality of this story, which can be understood through analysis of language, drawn comparisons, and greater application of this subject. It is at this time that we first see the monster as a human being, and not as a creation lurking in the shadows and undergrowth. The language used in this passage evokes in the reader empathy and sadness for the monster. For most of the story we are conveyed as a second-hand event recounted by Victor, through letters to Walton and passed down to us that way. This seems to establish a stronger bond with the monster. At this point, the monster seems to be in a state of childlike wonder, and does not understand why everyone was so terrified of him, nor why the victor was repelled by him. He hides in a hovel and steals food, thus meeting his most basic needs. He is then able to better understand emotions; Once he is no longer hungry or cold, he is able to focus on how the people in the cabin seem to communicate and are sad. He begins to learn their language and, after understanding their poverty, sees that it is his fault and is able to correct it. The increasing complexity of language shows the monster... middle of paper... of brotherly love and charity... [It will give him] real pleasure to be in one way or another useful to a human creature. "It is the only act of kindness, an act of true selflessness towards the monster in a sea of despair. As previously stated, the juxtaposition of this moment of hope with the rejection of the three righteous children and Victor drives the creature to -above the edge.Mary Shelly brings human struggle, complex social satire and commentary to life in the form of her own creature patchwork of language, diction and metaphors. She portrays to the reader the struggles of her creature face. to adversity, the use of a story within a story; Victor's letter to Walton, the monster's account of his moment of epiphany and fall, and even the story of Safi, told through the letters. that the monster found and told to Victor who talked about it and sent it to Walton..