Chapter Four Frankenstein Victor describes the processes he goes through to learn how to create life: “To examine the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death. I became acquainted with the science of anatomy, but this was not sufficient; I must also observe the natural decay and corruption of the human body.”

A. After Victor dedicates himself to the studies of life, death, and natural philosophy,
he neglects his health and family. Isn’t it ironic that he is studying life and death,
but doesn’t realize the costs to his own health? Why, if he is studying this subject,
can’t he tell that he is fading away as he is trying to animate a lifeless form? The
importance of mental health was not well-known in the 1800s. How might mental
health play a part in his deterioration?(4-5 sentences)

B. What does Victor’s obsession suggest about the need to create a work-life
balance, even in the 1800s?(4-5 sentences)