Frankenstein believed that he owed the Monster a certain amount of happiness because he was responsible for bringing him into existence. As the creator, Frankenstein felt a moral obligation to take care of his creation and provide him with some form of happiness. This sense of responsibility stemmed from the fact that Frankenstein had essentially played God by giving life to a being.
However, it is important to note that Frankenstein’s perspective on what he owed the Monster shifted over the course of the novel. At first, he believed that he could create a perfect being and bestow happiness upon him. But when the Monster turned out to be hideous and rejected by society, Frankenstein felt a sense of guilt and responsibility for the pain and suffering he had inflicted upon his creation.
Frankenstein’s initial intention was to create a being that would bring him glory and admiration, but he quickly realized the consequences of his actions. He came to understand that he owed the Monster not only happiness but also guidance, protection, and a sense of belonging.
Despite this realization, Frankenstein struggled with fulfilling his obligations to the Monster. He feared that by granting the Monster happiness and companionship, he would be perpetuating the cycle of destruction that the Monster had already initiated. He worried that he would be responsible for unleashing more havoc upon the world if he were to comply with the Monster’s demands.
This internal conflict exemplifies Frankenstein’s moral dilemma. On one hand, he recognizes his responsibility as the creator and feels a duty to provide his creation with happiness. On the other hand, he is aware of the potential consequences and the harm that the Monster is capable of causing.
Frankenstein’s struggle to reconcile these conflicting obligations reflects the complex nature of his relationship with the Monster. He understands that he owes the Monster something, but is torn between doing what is right and protecting the world from further harm.
In a broader sense, Frankenstein’s moral conflict raises questions about the responsibilities of creators towards their creations. It highlights the ethical dilemmas that arise when individuals have the power to bring life into existence and the potential consequences of neglecting those responsibilities.
Frankenstein believed that he owed the Monster happiness and a sense of belonging, but he was torn between fulfilling his obligations and protecting the world from the Monster’s destructive tendencies. This internal conflict serves as a reflection of the complex moral questions raised by the novel.