Character Analysis Robert Walton

Analyse the character of Robert Walton
The first character we are introduced to in the novel is Robert Walton. We know this because there are a series of letters from him to his sister Margret Saville concerning his whereabouts. From reading the four letters it is apparent to the reader that Walton is an ambitious and caring man. He is articulate and eloquent especially when writing about his voyage. To the reader he appears to be very reflective in that he expresses his concern about how long it will be before he meets his sister again, this is apparent throughout all four letters and each letter is concluded in an affectionate and emotional tone.
Walton’s writings entice the reader into his world. His use of language paints an image so
Essentially Walton is the first character we learn about, throughout each letter he his character develops and we learn about his past, present and current ambitions. He gives us insight into his childhood, and his current state of mind.
Throughout the letters we, as a reader are with him fulfilling his ambition but we also learn that he is a lonely man who craves a companion. This is conveyed when he writes “I have no friend, Margaret” the fact he longs for a companion sends the message across to us as a reader that he underestimated the loneliness that he would feel throughout his voyage.
Walton’s ambition is a common theme of all the letters but it is perhaps best summed up when her writes “but successful shall crown my endeavours” this shows his determination to fulfil his lifelong dream, which he is willing to die for. Walton knows what there is a chance that he could be lost on this voyage which is why he writes “remember me with affection, should you never hear from me again” this identifies to the reader how far Walton will go to be satisfied with his
Letter four introduces the reader to the point where Walton’s boat is trapped by ice; he describes the scene as “dangerous” because they are not only trapped by the ice but by “thick fog.” It is at this point we told of a figure in the distance, it is described as a “gigantic stature.” The use of the word ‘gigantic’ suggests non-human but then when you read further on you are told about a man who is “nearly frozen” and is “dreadfully emaciated by fatigue and suffering.” The way that this figure is described paints a vivid image in the reader’s head, which leads them to feel an element of pity.
Once Walton and the crew took care of this man, Walton is intrigued by Victor Frankenstein. He is curious to learn more about him, yet the longer Frankenstien is on the ship the more he tries to persuade Walton not to pursue a life of dangerous desire as Frankenstein speaks from personal experience. It is revealed to Walton that Frankenstein had a similar ambition but fulfilling was very different and he questions Walton’s sanity when he said “unhappy man! Do you share my madness?” Hence Frankenstein tries to dissuade Walton from a similar