Essential Question #9

Robert Walton and Victor Frankenstein are both scholars and scientists that wish to find a greater meaning beyond conventional things. The main goal of science is to help us better understand the world around us, and that is just what these men intend to do. However, they each take interests in different aspects of the world. Walton is interested in journeys and quests for adventure that lead to new land and unseen cultures. Frankenstein, on the other hand, is interested in the secret of death. These differences in their interests may originate in their differences in education. Walton was educated by reading the journals of various adventurers, while Frankenstein received a formal education. This is because of their differences in social class. Walton was raised in a middle class environment, but Frankenstein was raised by a wealthy Italian family. This results in the differences in their education. Also the ways in which Walton learned may have influenced him towards a more adventurous pursuit of knowledge. Also, his middle class upbringing makes the fame and riches that come along with discovery seem more enticing.

Essential Question #8

Petruchio and Katherine have no semblance of love between them in their relationship. Petruchio did not have noble movies in his attempt to pursue Katherine. He was not drawn to her because of her beauty of mind or body. He only desires the riches that will ensue after marrying her. In comparison to Lucentio, who pursues Bianca because she is beautiful, Petruchio seems shallow and heartless. The only other factor that has placed Petruchio and Katherine together is the plan created by Hortensio and Gremio. They want Katherine out of the way so that they may marry Bianca. These circumstances are not those of a loving relationship. As a result of being with a woman that he does not truly love, Petruchio must tame Katherine’s fiery attitude. He does this by not allowing her to eat and making her submit to his will. Petruchio’s practices make it appear as though he is taming a wild animal. This is not love. Should any other characters consider these two to be in love, it is in an extremely twisted condition. It may be possible for true love to form between them, however it is unlikely.