ure versus Nurture in Frankenstein Andrew Lustig posed an important question to readers of Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein: “How far should we go in our efforts to alter nature, including human nature? As stewards of God's creation, what are our responsibilities?” (Lustig 1) This question translates into the theme of nature versus nurture in the novel. The debate between nature and nurture is an important topic in Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein. The two central characters, Victor Frankenstein and the creature he created; both characters were raised differently. Nature and the way they are raised may be the cause of why they are, the way they are. Victor and his creature are subject to very different breeding styles. Shelley also incorporates representations of light and fire. This representation is central to the discussion between nature and nurture in the novel. Shelley first addresses Victor's nature. He writes that he was born "in Geneva" to a family that is "one of the most illustrious of that republic" (Shelly). Victor describes his family with very powerful words including honor and integrity. Shelly writes more about their place in society and the ability to lead. The Frankenstein family had a very rich historical background. Victor couldn't help but become part of his nature. Being in a family like his, he has to maintain a certain standard. Victor had a lot of power envy. However, the power he received was too much for him to handle. “I had labored…for the sole purpose of breathing life into an inanimate body…I had desired it with an ardor that far surpassed restraint,” says (Shelly) Victor. Shelley portrays the idea that Victor is overwhelmed by his newly acquired power. The creature awakened something in him that came from its influence… from the middle of the paper… what it could have been was pure hatred. Even though Victor's upbringing was the opposite. Work cited BANERJEE, SUPARNA. “Home Is Where Mommy Is: Reframing the Question of Science in Frankenstein.” Women's Studies 40.1 (2011): 1-22. Academic research completed. Network. March 17, 2014.Lancaster, Ashley Craig. "From Frankenstein's Monster to Lester Ballard: The Evolving Gothic Monster." Midwest Quarterly 49.2 (2008): 132-148. Academic research completed. Network. March 17, 2014. Lustig, Andrew. "The Lessons of Frankenstein: Nature, Nurture, and What's in Between. (By Different Minds) (a multi-year study funded by the Ford Foundation titled 'Altering Nature: How Religious Traditions Evaluate New Biotechnology')." Commonweal 14 (2004): 8. Academic OneFile. Network. March 15, 2014.Shelley, Maria. Frankenstein or the modern Prometheus. New York: New American Library, 1963. Print.