Search for Identity Within Literary Works

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Eric Magolnick Mrs. Guerra British Literature H April 26, 2013 Search for Identity A search for identity is a quest that lies within an individual’s search for what defines them as a person. An identity is what sets him/her apart from everyone else. The image that one creates for himself/herself after death is his/her identity. It is not formed overnight; it is developed and built on one’s experiences and failures. A search for identity can be sparked by a discovered passion, a drive to achieve greatness, or just a willingness to find a purpose for existence. For example, both Victor Frankenstein and Beowulf spent their lives in search of their identities. Beowulf searched for his identity because of his determination to achieve greatness. Frankenstein, however, discovered his identity after taking an initiative to pursue his scientific endeavors. Every individual has different skills and talents, different motives, and all around different demeanors that are developed over a period of a lifetime. People are born with the potential to achieve greatness far beyond expectation. Some are born with the courage to cease the opportunities that present themselves, knowing that their identities lie within their accomplishments. While others lack that sense of perseverance and tenacity. Everyone and everything was put on earth for a reason and it is in a search for identity where one finds his/her reason for existence. In the novel Frankenstein, a main theme is search for identity. Victor Frankenstein discovered a great interest in the field of science and pursued dreams of becoming a scientist. He was astounded with what the world of science could explain and create. He believed that he had found his identity in his youth. However, the first instance of hardship fell upon Victor when his mother died while giving birth. After losing what was most precious to him,

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