Companionship and isolation

One of the core ideas explored by Shelley is that of companionship and, as a result, that of isolation. Companionship is depicted as a key force behind ensuring a successful human existence in the text and in turn, isolation is presented as the primary cause of human suffering. The Creature’s most basic wants and desires relate to his yearning to belong. Initially, when he sees the De Lacey family, he idealises this sort of domestic tranquillity, which motivates him to introduce himself and try to form a relationship with the family. That he is denied such companionship can be seen to be a fulcrum in the narrative, marking the onset of his decline into monstrosity.