In Mary Shelley’s renowned novel Frankenstein, the character of Robert Walton plays a significant role in the narrative. Walton, an ambitious explorer, sets his sights on the unexplored North Pole, driven by a desire to discover new lands and expand the boundaries of human knowledge. This article delves into the motivations and preparations of Walton, shedding light on the reasons behind his perilous journey.
Walton’s deep-rooted fascination with exploration and the pursuit of the unknown propels him towards the North Pole. In his letters to his sister, he expresses his burning desire to prove his mettle and accomplish what no one else has done before—to set foot in the “country of eternal light.” Walton yearns to leave a lasting mark on history, to showcase his courage and determination by venturing into uncharted territories untouched by man.
To embark on such a daring expedition, Walton willingly subjects himself to rigorous physical and mental preparation. He endures extreme cold, scarcity of food and water, and deprives himself of much-needed sleep. His days are filled with tireless work, while his nights are dedicated to studying and expanding his knowledge base. Walton’s unwavering commitment to his mission illustrates his unwavering determination and resilience.
However, as Walton’s journey progresses, he begins to encounter the harsh realities of the Arctic environment. The treacherous conditions take their toll on both his crew and himself, resulting in the loss of several lives. Recognizing the perilous nature of their situation, Walton ultimately decides to abandon his pursuit of the North Pole and return to England. This decision is driven by a sense of responsibility towards his crew’s well-being and an acknowledgment of the dangers that lie ahead.
During Walton’s voyage, he encounters Victor Frankenstein, who shares his own tale of tragedy and horror. Victor’s creation, commonly referred to as the “monster,” has wreaked havoc upon his life, leading him on a relentless pursuit of the creature. Despite their differing motivations, Walton and Victor find common ground in their shared pursuit of knowledge and exploration. This encounter further fuels Walton’s determination to achieve his goal, as he witnesses the consequences of unchecked ambition and the importance of understanding the limits of human endeavors.
Robert Walton’s expedition to the North Pole in Frankenstein serves as a testament to the human spirit of exploration and the pursuit of knowledge. His motivations and preparations highlight the inherent risks and sacrifices involved in venturing into uncharted territories. Ultimately, Walton’s decision to return to England showcases the importance of recognizing one’s limitations and prioritizing the well-being of oneself and others. As readers, we are left to ponder the implications of such ambitious quests and the delicate balance between human ambition and the boundaries of nature.
Why Is Walton Going To The North Pole?
Walton is going to the North Pole for several reasons:
1. Personal Achievement: Walton is driven by a desire to prove himself and accomplish something extraordinary. He sees the North Pole as a challenge that would test his limits and demonstrate his capability to achieve the impossible.
2. Exploring the Unknown: Walton is fascinated by the idea of venturing into uncharted territories. He is eager to explore the “country of eternal light” and discover places that have never been seen or experienced by mankind before.
3. Scientific Curiosity: Walton is deeply interested in the pursuit of knowledge and scientific advancement. He believes that the North Pole holds valuable scientific secrets and discoveries that could revolutionize our understanding of the world.
4. Fame and Recognition: Walton also seeks recognition and fame for his expedition. He hopes that successfully reaching the North Pole will bring him prestige and establish his name in the annals of history.
5. Adventure and Thrill: The allure of adventure and the thrill of embarking on a dangerous journey motivate Walton. He craves the excitement and adrenaline rush that comes with exploring remote and hazardous environments.
Walton’s decision to go to the North Pole is driven by a combination of personal ambition, scientific curiosity, the pursuit of fame, and a thirst for adventure.
Why Did Frankenstein Travel To The North Pole?
Frankenstein traveled to the North Pole primarily to pursue the creature that he had created and seek revenge for the murder of his wife. The creature, in an act of retaliation, killed Frankenstein’s newlywed wife, driving him into a state of rage and vengeance. Filled with an overwhelming desire for retribution, Frankenstein relentlessly pursued the creature, who sought refuge in the desolate and unforgiving Arctic region.
The North Pole, being a remote and inhospitable location, provided the creature with a possible escape from Frankenstein’s relentless pursuit. By fleeing towards the Arctic, the creature hoped to evade capture and disappear into the vast wilderness. Realizing this, Frankenstein was determined to track down the creature and bring an end to the chaos and tragedy it had caused.
Additionally, the North Pole symbolizes a metaphorical journey for Frankenstein. It represents his descent into the darkness and isolation of his own creation. As Frankenstein chased the creature through the Arctic, he was also embarking on a personal quest for redemption and closure. The barren and desolate landscape of the North Pole mirrored the inner turmoil and desolation that Frankenstein felt, reflecting his own deteriorating mental state.
Frankenstein traveled to the North Pole to pursue the creature and seek revenge for the murder of his wife. The Arctic region offered the creature a potential escape from his pursuer, while also serving as a symbolic representation of Frankenstein’s own descent into darkness and isolation.
Why Is Walton Returning To England?
Walton is returning to England because the voyage he embarked on to the North Pole has become too dangerous. The treacherous conditions and harsh weather have claimed the lives of some of his crew members. The ship has become stuck in ice, making it impossible to continue the journey. Moreover, Walton realizes that continuing the expedition would mean risking the lives of his remaining crew.
Returning to England is the only practical decision to ensure the safety of the remaining crew members and to prevent further loss of life. By returning, they can escape the hazardous conditions and seek refuge in a more stable environment.
Additionally, Walton’s initial enthusiasm for exploration has waned as he witnesses the destructive nature of the Arctic environment. He begins to question the worthiness of his pursuit and the potential consequences of pushing forward against insurmountable odds.
Walton is returning to England due to the dangerous conditions, loss of crew members, and his growing doubts about the feasibility of the expedition. By doing so, he prioritizes the safety of his crew and acknowledges the futility of continuing the journey in such perilous circumstances.
What Is It That Walton Hopes To Find In The Arctic?
Robert Walton hopes to find new lands and to understand the mysteries of the North Pole. His primary goal is to discover a passage through the Arctic to the Pacific Ocean, which would greatly benefit navigation and trade. Additionally, Walton desires to uncover the secrets of the icy wilderness and gain knowledge about the unexplored regions of the world. He is driven by a thirst for adventure, discovery, and the pursuit of scientific understanding.
Conclusion
Robert Walton is a determined and ambitious explorer who is driven by his desire to explore the unknown and make groundbreaking discoveries. He is willing to endure extreme hardships, such as cold, hunger, and sleep deprivation, in order to achieve his goals. Walton’s fascination with the North Pole and his belief in the possibility of finding new lands and understanding this mysterious region push him to embark on a perilous journey. However, his encounter with Victor Frankenstein and the creature serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of unchecked ambitions and the consequences that can arise from the pursuit of knowledge and power. Despite the setbacks and losses he experiences during his expedition, Walton’s decision to return to England shows his wisdom and recognition of the limits of his capabilities. Walton’s character showcases the human drive for exploration and the complexities and moral dilemmas that can arise from the pursuit of one’s ambitions.
