Innocence Sacrificed: The Role of Justine Moritz in Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein'

In Mary Shelley’s seminal work ‘Frankenstein,’ Justine Moritz is a character that, while having a comparatively brief presence, leaves an indelible impact on the narrative. She serves as a symbol of innocence and purity, caught in the tragic crossfire of Victor Frankenstein’s ambition and his creation’s thirst for revenge.

Justine, a minor character in terms of her time in the narrative spotlight, plays a significant role in the unfolding of the story. She is introduced as a loving and dutiful girl, adopted into the Frankenstein household, and is particularly cherished by Elizabeth, Victor’s adopted sister and love interest.

Justine represents the epitome of innocence and goodness, qualities that starkly contrast the destruction and horror that ensue as the novel progresses.

Justine’s life takes a tragic turn when she is wrongfully accused of murdering William, Victor’s younger brother. Unbeknownst to her and the rest of the Frankenstein family, the real culprit is Victor’s creature, setting a cunning trap to make Justine the scapegoat for his heinous act.

Here, Justine’s character becomes a poignant symbol of the innocent victims of Victor’s unbridled ambition and his failure to take responsibility for his creation.

Justine’s trial and subsequent execution mark a turning point in the narrative. They underscore the tragic consequences of Victor’s experiments, highlighting the profound moral and ethical implications of his actions. While Justine stands accused, Victor is the real perpetrator. His ambition led to the creation of the creature and, indirectly, to the series of unfortunate events that include Justine’s demise.

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Furthermore, Justine’s false confession and acceptance of her fate reveal the power dynamics and societal expectations of women during Shelley’s time. Facing the daunting certainty of conviction, she submits to the pressure of her confessor and admits guilt for a crime she didn’t commit. Her forced confession underscores the powerlessness of women in a male-dominated society, revealing the limitations on their agency and voice.

Finally, Justine’s death brings the themes of guilt, responsibility, and justice to the forefront of the narrative. Victor’s overpowering guilt over her death reinforces his responsibility for the chaos and tragedy caused by his creation. Yet, he remains silent and does not attempt to save Justine, emphasizing his character’s moral fallibility.

While her life was cut short by tragic circumstances, Justine Moritz’s character plays a vital role in highlighting the novel’s central themes. Her death symbolizes the loss of innocence and the terrible cost of unchecked ambition and avoidance of personal responsibility. Moreover, her character allows Shelley to critique the societal norms and power structures of her time.

In conclusion, Justine Moritz, though a minor character in ‘Frankenstein,’ is crucial for the narrative’s progression and thematic development. Her life and untimely death serve as a grim reminder of the innocent lives lost amidst Victor’s clash with his creation. Through Justine, Shelley masterfully explores the themes of innocence, ambition, responsibility, power, and societal expectations, making her a pivotal character in this iconic work.