Frankenstein is a novel characterized by an unusually layered narrative structure. Narrators exist within narrators, narratives are passed from one character to another, and there is a clear gap between the telling of the story and the historical unfolding of events. This patchwork narrative structure allows Victor Frankenstein to recount the tragic events of his life and to interrupt the tale with reflections on his fate. Initially, Frankenstein's interruptive comments serve to insist that his fate has been irrevocably determined and to deflect moral responsibility for his actions. As the novel progresses, however, these metafictional comments demonstrate an awareness of his guilt, and occur with increasing frequency at moments in the tale when Frankenstein displays escapist tendencies. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay In the opening chapters of his narrative, Frankenstein uses metafictional commentary to warn Walton of his (Frankenstein's) downfall and to frame his thesis that he is not responsible for the tragedy he has experienced. These initial interrupting comments do not occur when Frankenstein displays escapist tendencies. Rather, they occur when he makes choices that he believes will seal his fate. He describes his decision to study natural philosophy at an early age as "the genius that governed [his] destiny" (67) and "the fatal impulse that led to [his] downfall" (68). His decision to follow his father's wishes and attend Ingolstadt University is memorable for him, because it was “the day that decided [his] future destiny” (77). For Frankenstein, these decisions are not choices; they are impulses that cannot be repressed. His fatalistic reflections in the opening chapters illustrate his acquiescence towards his fate and his ardent belief that he is not responsible for his or others' misfortunes. With the creation of the creature, however, it becomes increasingly difficult for Frankenstein to argue he is without fault. Faced with the creature's monstrosity and his horrific actions, Frankenstein attempts to escape his reality through the literal act of escape. However, his escapist tendencies cannot overcome his guilty conscience. After fleeing the courtroom following Justine's sentencing, he attempts to rationalize his silence about the creature's existence. He interrupts his story, defiantly proclaiming to Walton: “The tortures of the accused were not the same as mine; it was supported by innocence, but the fangs of remorse tore at my chest and did not want to relinquish their hold” (111). By confronting Justine and passionately maintaining that she is innocent, it would seem that Frankenstein takes responsibility for his misfortune. However, he avoids labeling himself guilty, implying that his belief in his cursed fate still outweighs his moral remorse. With Justine's execution still weighing heavily on him, Frankenstein escapes to the summit of Montanvert. His escape is once again futile; the creature confronts Frankenstein at the top of the mountain and tells Frankenstein his story. Seeing the creature as sensitive, intelligent, and distinctly human increases Frankenstein's cognitive dissonance. He can no longer simply deflect blame onto a soulless, unfeeling monster. However, the creature's physical return, his confession to William's murder, and his request for a mate all contribute to Frankenstein's belief that he (Frankenstein) is cursed. The dissonance created by the creature's return is evident when Frankenstein complains to Walton:.