In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein", light and fire are both examples of symbolism. Light symbolizes gaining knowledge, making discoveries, and finding enlightenment. The unrevealed world is "dark" to human eyes and minds, and the goal of a scientist is to discover the light, and unlock the secrets of the unknown. This is exactly what Frankenstein attempted and succeeded to do. The monster discovers that light can illuminate dark areas, both physically and mentally. However, he also discovers the concept of the double edged sword, symbolized by the fire. While it provides him light in the darkness, it will also burn him if he puts his hands to close to it.