The Arctic serves several important roles in the story of Frankenstein:
Framing Device: The Arctic setting acts as a framing device for the main narrative. The novel begins and ends with the letters written by Robert Walton, an Arctic explorer, to his sister Margaret Saville. Through these letters, the main story of Victor Frankenstein is presented as a tale told to Walton by Frankenstein himself. The Arctic setting adds a sense of isolation, danger, and exploration to the story, mirroring the themes of loneliness and pursuit of knowledge present in Victor's narrative.
Symbolism of the Frozen Wastes: The frozen and desolate Arctic landscape symbolizes the isolation and emotional coldness experienced by both Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein. Both characters are driven by ambitious pursuits and have isolated themselves from society in their quests for knowledge and glory. The frozen wastes also reflect the emotional state of the characters, particularly Victor, who becomes emotionally detached and numb due to the consequences of his actions.
Foreshadowing: The Arctic setting foreshadows the tragic events of the novel. The dangerous and inhospitable environment of the Arctic serves as a parallel to the dangerous and uncontrollable consequences of Victor's scientific ambitions. It also sets the tone for the novel's dark and gothic atmosphere.
Moral Warning: The Arctic serves as a cautionary backdrop for the novel, emphasizing the dangers of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of knowledge without ethical consideration. Walton's ambition to explore the Arctic and Frankenstein's ambition to create life both lead to disastrous consequences, illustrating the novel's overarching theme of the dangers of playing God.
Parallel Journeys: The Arctic setting provides a parallel journey for both Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein. Both characters are on quests for discovery and knowledge, and both experience isolation and moral dilemmas in their pursuits. Their paths eventually intersect, and their interactions allow Victor to tell his cautionary tale, warning Walton about the dangers of his own ambitions.