Captain Walton's expedition to the North Pole and Frankenstein's "monster project" is an allegory about the dangers of endless science. His physical journey and Frankenstein's intellectual quest become an omen against the scientific revolution and warned about its potential for destroying humanity. It is arguable that the problem isn't the journey itself, but it's how they get there, and who's leading them. After all, the monster is harmless until Victor's shameless neglect drives him to insanity and murder. And while the journey to the North Pole may not have happened this time, who's to say Walton might not set out again? He shows that he's learned his lesson by turning back, but curiosity is always waiting and ready to grip the minds interest.
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