Different Interpretations of the Heart

If you’ve ever read Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” you might be able to see different interpretations of how the story is portrayed. Reading about the misunderstood Monster always filled my heart with sadness, and guilt. I guess you could say that the sadness came from how the monster was mistreated, when he encountered De Lacey (The Blind Man) and his family. Obviously De Lacey showed compassion towards the Monster, by educating him and guiding him to use his mind and heart. It wasn’t until De Lacey’s son overreacted and started fighting the Monster.

If you know the story, the Monster did not fight the son. He ran into the forest and sobbed. Sobbing over the actions of being physically beaten by the son, the Monster felt useless and alone. I think at times we forget that teenage-students feel alone. What De Lacey was trying to do, was to teach the Monster how to use his heart and learn from his feelings. As teacher, you can choose a topic from a book and create a lesson. If you’re going to teach a teenager about understanding emotions such as kindness, dignity, structure, and respect, then teachers are going to need to broaden their lesson plans. De Lacey’s character could be the embodiment of an educator, which possesses a structured and balanced teacher who is compassionate for others.

Another interpretation of the story could be based on depression. Looking at the Monster, we as the audience see the struggles that the Monster goes through and the various paths he takes. Coping with the fact that he is different and willing to learn, is not enough for others to feel comfortable around him. Most people who I’ve talked to think that he is seeking revenge against Victor; if you read the story carefully, all the Monster wants from Victor, is an answer as to why he left him. Of course, the Monster also wants Victor to create a bride for him, but what he wanted initially was an answer as to why Victor had abandoned him.

I’ve worked with countless kids and teenagers, and when a child or a teen feels abandoned by their parents, immediate family, friends, or teachers it just breaks my heart. I have been on the receiving end of that action, and regrettably, I have abandoned some people and students. Sometimes we do not take into account our actions, and what happens to others. I think that when others try to find themselves, we must be willing to be free in order to help them when they are vulnerable.

Helping someone in need is a way of showing compassion, and trust. Those characteristics leave a mark on others and in their hearts. My biggest fear is when students lose themselves and do not feel a sense of belonging. That is why it is important for teachers and parents, to encourage the young to surround themselves with positive people.

When a child or teenager surrounds themself with individuals who are caring and welcoming, the sense of sadness goes away. It goes back to a sense of feeling welcomed, and opening up.

With that said, I challenge you to make it a priority to welcome others into your life. Be someone who personifies humility and compassion towards others. Be responsible with your actions, and take into account the feelings of others. Express your appreciation for others, if you have felt a sense of loss and they’ve been there for you.

You only live once. That is of course a deranged scientist does not bring you back to life.