Mary Shelley's classic gothic novel Frankenstein details the relationship between two significant figures, Victor Frankenstein, and his nameless monster. The critical relationship between such characters causes many literary critics to have the idea that they are linked by nature, inadvertently becoming a single central figure (Spark). This provides thought-provoking thoughts on the duality of mankind, revealing the wickedness of human nature. The monster's role as Victor's alter ego is an ideal suggestion, as their characteristics in the story constantly change; from predator to prey, from depressed to angry, from pitiful to cruel, these are all characteristics shared between the two characters at different times in the novel. These characters are both complementary and contrasting beings (Scintilla). Critics stood by their claims about the relationship between Victor and the monster. Primary characteristics shared between both figures may include ignorance of those around them, an inner darkness that dictates their principles, a conscience that consequently leads them to regret their actions, and a strong craving for knowledge. Critics also believe that the novel's alternative title The Modern Prometheus is an indicator of the connection between Victor and the monster. Victor and the monster are both ignorant of the people around them. Victor Frankenstein has a life full of domestic love and affection. His father Alphonse, his best friend Henry Clerval, and his lover Elizabeth, an orphan of remarkable beauty and talent, were all raised in the same home as him. All of these people were able to provide Frankenstein with joys of companionship and love. Yet Victor had sought something more than a prosperous and loving life, and instead ch...... half of the paper ...... "Remarks on Frankenstein" in Bloom, Harold, ed. Mary Shelley, Bloom's Classic Critical Views. New York: Chelsea House Publishing, 2008. Bloom's Literature. File Web Facts, Inc.. May 8, 2014.Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft. and Michael Kennedy. Joseph. Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus: The Text of 1831. London: Oxford University, 1969. Print.Spark, Muriel. “The Changing Roles of Frankenstein and His Monster.” In Mary Shelley: A Biography. E. P. Dutton, 1987. Cited as "The Changing Roles of Frankenstein and His Monster" in Bloom, Harold, ed. Frankenstein, Bloom's Guides. New York: Chelsea House Publishing, 2007. Bloom's Literature. File, Inc. Web Facts. May 8 2014.