Reading and Identity

In his book on nineteenth-century reading practices, literary scholar Patrick Brantlinger argues that "Frankenstein is, among other things, a novel about two educations, or rather, miseducations, Victor's and the Monster's."

For both Victor and the Monster, reading is critical to their development as characters and individuals.

In an essay, select either Frankenstein or his monster, and examine the role and significance of reading and books to the character's growth and development.

Your essay should have a specific thesis or argument and be supported with ample evidence from the text.