Parallels between Frank and his monster

As well as foreshadowing the reactions to the monster, this observation of Walton's also establishes the first of many parallels between Frankenstein and the monster. The two are inextricably linked as creator and creation and, despite their subsequent relationship as 'enemies', their similarities are clearly identifiable (as set up in this passage).

Evidently, they share a loneliness that seems inescapable - Frankenstein struggles to make friends, having long been absorbed in and obsessed by his work, and the monster (obviously) is universally rejected and outcasted. It is interesting that the two exacerbate one other's feelings of isolation. Frankenstein is the first person to reject the monster, thus building the foundations for his future as a complete outsider, and the monster gradually eradicates the few companions Frankenstein has in the world, killing his dearest family and friends.

They are both culpable for their loneliness and their enemity is caused by their blame of one other for their misfortunes. For this reason, the parallels drawn between them, even at this early stage before we've met the monster, highlight the dualistic nature of their relationship - they are bound together inextricably but they strive to destroy one other.