Frankenstein 1

      The introductory letters of Mary Shelley's novel, Frankenstein, begin the story by including quite a bit of  characterization. Throughout the letters, we, the reader, are introduced to two prominent characters, Robert and the stranger. Shelley details not only the physical appearances of the two men but also their personalities and history. We learn why the two men have suddenly crossed paths while they are pursuing completely different goals. After the two men initially meet, they form an instant bond. I think it is their loneliness that makes them come together in such a unique friendship.

"I said in one of my letters, my dear Margaret, that I should find no friend on the wide ocean; yet I have found a man who, before his spirit had been broken by misery, I should have been happy to have possessed as the brother of my heart" (Shelley, 10).

     Walton says this in one of his many letters to his sister, Margaret. I found this sentence to be very touching. These two men, who really had no one close to them at the moment and seemed to be quickly losing hope, found each other. It was their destiny to be at the same place at the same time on the vast, open sea. These men clearly needed each other, and I think their friendship will play a role throughout the entire story.