The Nature of Monstrosity and Humanity

The theme of what makes a monster and what makes a human being.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Monster's Heart

The Monster's Heart The Outcast Erik is born with a monstrous face. He is rejected by his own mother. He is forced to live outside society. His ugliness defines his life. The Genius and the Monster Erik is also a genius: a composer, architect, and magician. His talents are extraordinary, but they are used for evil. The novel asks: does genius excuse monstrosity? The Capacity for Love Erik loves Christine with a depth that is human. He is capable of tenderness and tears. But his love is possessive and destructive. The novel shows that a monster can love, but that love can be monstrous.

The Human Response

The Human Response Christine's Compassion Christine, despite her fear, shows Erik pity. She kisses him. This human gesture redeems him. It shows that humanity is defined by compassion, not appearance. The Persian's Understanding The Persian does not hate Erik. He pities him. He sees the man behind the monster. His understanding is a model of human empathy. The Final Judgment The novel concludes that Erik is more sinned against than sinning. He is a product of his rejection. The true monster is society's cruelty. The theme of monstrosity is turned inward.

throughout the novel

during the climax