When we think of classic literature, Frankenstein often comes to mind. But have you ever considered the role of light in this Gothic masterpiece? Mary Shelley uses light as a symbol throughout the novel to represent a variety of themes. From the search for knowledge to the power of God, light takes on many meanings in this haunting tale. So, what does light symbolize in Frankenstein?
At the most basic level, light represents knowledge and enlightenment. Throughout the novel, both Victor and the monster are obsessed with learning and discovering the world around them. This thirst for knowledge leads them to explore science and the mysteries of life. However, as they delve deeper into their studies, they realize that their new understanding also comes with consequences. As Victor states, “Learn from me…how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge.” This warning emphasizes how light symbolizes the very real dangers of seeking knowledge and understanding.
In addition to knowledge, light also symbolizes the presence of God. Both Victor and the monster wrestle with their understanding of religion and the divine. For Victor, the creation of life is a challenge to the power of God, while the monster questions his own place in the world and whether there is truly a benevolent creator. The use of light to symbolize God highlights the characters’ struggle to understand their own place in the universe and their relationship with a higher power. Ultimately, light plays a significant role in Shelley’s exploration of the themes of knowledge, power, and faith in this iconic novel.
The Duality of Light in Frankenstein
In Mary Shelley’s novel, “Frankenstein,” light is used as a symbol to represent both hope and destruction. Throughout the novel, Shelley portrays two distinct representations of light – the warmth and comfort of the sun, and the artificial, man-made light of science and technology.
- The Sun: The sun is often used to represent hope and life in the novel. For example, in Chapter 9, when Victor Frankenstein is in the mountains, he describes the “radiant beams” of the sun as “a divine spring” that “waken[s] life.” However, later in the novel, when the monster is rejected and alone, he describes the sun as “a mockery” and “a deception.”
- Artificial Light: On the other hand, artificial light – such as candles or electricity – is often used to represent the dangers of science and technology. This is demonstrated by Victor’s obsession with creating life and his use of electricity in his experiment. In Chapter 5, when the creature is brought to life, “a grin wrinkled his cheeks” and he speaks of the “horror and disgust” he feels upon seeing his creation in the light. This suggests that the creature sees artificial light as unnatural and terrifying.
- The Duality of Light: Shelley’s use of these two different representations of light highlights the duality of Victor’s character and his journey throughout the novel. Initially, Victor is drawn to the warmth and comfort of the natural world, but as he becomes more obsessed with his experiment, he turns to artificial light and the dangers of science. This ultimately leads to his downfall and the destruction of the creature he created.
Thus, in “Frankenstein,” light symbolizes both hope and destruction, and Shelley’s use of this duality highlights the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of man’s pursuit of knowledge and power.
The use of light as a metaphor
One of the most significant and recurring motifs in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is the use of light as a metaphor. Throughout the novel, light is used to represent a variety of emotions, states of mind, and themes. By using light as a symbol, Shelley adds depth and complexity to her storytelling, providing readers with a visual representation of the novel’s themes and overarching ideas. Below are some of the ways in which Shelley uses light as a metaphor in Frankenstein.
- Enlightenment: The novel opens with Captain Walton’s letters, in which he describes his desire to achieve “one vast and noble” goal: to reach the North Pole. Walton’s quest for knowledge and exploration mirrors Frankenstein’s own intellectual pursuits. Therefore, light is used to symbolize the enlightenment gained through intellectual curiosity and exploration.
- Knowledge: Victor Frankenstein is obsessed with acquiring knowledge and creating life. The light represents the knowledge he gains as he works on his creation. However, the consequences of his obsession turn the light into darkness and confusion.
- Purity: During his childhood, Victor describes his happy memories of his family’s idyllic life in Geneva. The imagery of pure light represents the purity and joy of this time in his life.
In addition to these themes, Shelley also uses light to create contrast and tension within the novel. For example, light and dark are often juxtaposed to highlight the differences between characters, emotions, and events. This contrast becomes particularly meaningful during the climactic chapters of the novel, when Frankenstein and the monster engage in a final confrontation.
Light | Dark |
---|---|
Enlightenment | Ignorance |
Knowledge | Ignorance |
Purity | Corruption |
Ultimately, the use of light as a metaphor imbues Frankenstein with a sense of depth and complexity that elevates it beyond its horror genre roots. By using light to symbolize a variety of ideas, emotions, and events, Shelley creates a rich tapestry of meanings that offer readers a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.
The Symbolism of Light in Relation to Knowledge and Discovery
Light has always been used as a metaphor for knowledge and discovery throughout literature and art. In Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, the use of light as a symbol is particularly significant in relation to the pursuit of knowledge and the discovery of science.
The three main ways in which light is used metaphorically in the novel are as follows:
- Light as a source of knowledge and discovery
- Light as a representation of the dangers of knowledge
- Light as a symbol of divine punishment
Each of these will be explored in greater detail below:
Light as a Source of Knowledge and Discovery
Early in the novel, light is presented as a positive force that brings knowledge and discovery. Victor Frankenstein becomes obsessed with science and uses light to fuel his experiments. He often stays up late into the night, gazing at the sun or at the moon and stars, seeking inspiration for his work. His pursuit of science is motivated by his desire to “penetrate into the recesses of nature and show how she works in her hiding places.” For him, light symbolizes the discovery of the secrets of the natural world, and he sees it as something to be prized and revered.
As the novel progresses, Frankenstein’s obsession with science takes on darker overtones, and the use of light as a symbol becomes more problematic. The danger of knowledge is revealed through the character of Frankenstein’s creature. The ‘monster’ is brought to life through a series of experiments that Frankenstein conducts in secret, using light as a vital element in the process. The creature is initially presented as something of a miracle, a triumph of scientific ingenuity, and a testament to the power of knowledge. However, this triumph soon turns to horror, and the creature becomes a physical embodiment of the dangers of knowledge. The creature is representative of the uncontrollable consequences of playing god, and the idea that scientific advancement can lead to disastrous consequences is a theme that is prevalent throughout the novel.
Light as a Representation of the Dangers of Knowledge
As the novel progresses, the use of light as a symbol becomes increasingly fraught and ambiguous. Light is used to represent the dangers of knowledge and the destructive consequences of scientific curiosity. The creature, once a symbol of scientific triumph, becomes a monster that seeks to destroy his creator. His presence is often associated with darkness and shadow, representing the unknown and the uncontrollable. The creature’s use of light also becomes more ambiguous as the novel progresses. At times, he is presented as using light to bring knowledge and understanding, as when he teaches himself to read and write. At other times, however, he uses it as a weapon to intimidate and to threaten.
Light as a Symbol of Divine Punishment
In the novel’s climactic scene, Frankenstein chases his creature across the Arctic wasteland, seeking revenge for the destruction that he has wrought. The scene is steeped in symbolism and metaphor, with the Arctic landscape itself serving as a symbol of the alienation and isolation that both characters feel. Light is also used in a symbolic way, representing the power of the divine to punish those who transgress its boundaries. Frankenstein’s pursuit of the creature and his ultimate death in the icy wasteland can be seen as a punishment for his desire to play god and to control the natural world. The use of light in this final scene serves to underscore the idea that there are limits to human knowledge and that the pursuit of scientific discovery must be tempered by an awareness of the power of the divine.
Symbolism of Light | Effect on the Novel |
---|---|
Source of knowledge and discovery | Positive – Beginning of the Novel |
Dangers of knowledge | Negative – Middle of the Novel |
Symbol of divine punishment | Negative – End of the Novel |
In conclusion, the use of light as a symbol in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is multi-layered and complex. It represents both the positive potential of scientific discovery and the negative consequences of over-reaching. Ultimately, it serves as a warning against the dangers of scientific ambition and the hubris that comes from believing one can harness the natural world for one’s own ends. It reminds us that some things are beyond human understanding and control, and that the pursuit of knowledge must be tempered by an awareness of our own limitations.
Comparing Light and Darkness in Frankenstein
In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, light and darkness are recurring symbols that have significant meanings throughout the novel. Both symbols are used to represent certain aspects of the story’s themes, characters, and motifs. Here, we will discuss the significance of light and darkness in Frankenstein and how they compare to each other.
- The Symbolism of Light
- The Symbolism of Darkness
- Comparing Light and Darkness
- The Role of Light and Darkness in the Narrative
Throughout the novel, light is often used to signify knowledge, enlightenment, and revelation. It is often depicted as a symbol of hope, as well as the pursuit of scientific knowledge and progress. The creature, especially, is fascinated with light, and seeks to understand the world around him by following it. In chapter 10, the creature describes his experience of seeing the moon for the first time as a moment of enlightenment: “A new light seemed to dawn upon my mind, and bounding with joy, I communicated my discovery to my father. My father looked carelessly at the title page of my book and said, Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! My dear Victor, do not waste your time upon this; it is sad trash.”
On the other hand, darkness is generally used to symbolize ignorance, secrecy, and the unknown. In Frankenstein, the dark and mysterious setting of the novel’s key scenes often highlights the uncertainty and fear that characters feel. It is often depicted as a sign of danger, as well as the presence of the grotesque and monstrous. For example, when the creature first comes to life, it is in the middle of the night, and the room is shrouded in darkness. The creature describes his awakening as a terrifying experience: “I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs.”
Although light and darkness are often used in opposition to each other in Frankenstein, their relationship is more complex than simple black-and-white dichotomy. Rather than being inherently good or evil, both symbols can be either positive or negative depending on their context. For instance, while light is generally seen as a positive force that brings knowledge, it also brings danger to the creature when he is discovered by the villagers. Similarly, while darkness is usually depicted as negative and fearful, it also allows the creature to move unnoticed by humans, which allows him to observe them without being observed himself.
Symbol | Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
---|---|---|
Light | Enlightenment, progress, hope | Danger, exposure, blindness |
Darkness | Secrecy, mystery, privacy | Fear, the unknown, death |
Finally, it is important to note that light and darkness play a pivotal role in the development of the novel’s themes, especially those related to knowledge, responsibility, and morality. Through the use of light and darkness, Shelley highlights the dangers of scientific progress without moral guidance, the importance of self-reflection and introspection, and the consequences of neglecting the responsibilities we have towards the creatures we create.
Overall, light and darkness are powerful symbols that have significant meaning in Frankenstein. By comparing and contrasting these two symbols, we can better understand the complexity and depth of Shelley’s exploration of the human psyche and the dangers of scientific progress.
The impact of light on the tone of the novel
The use of light in Frankenstein is a recurring motif that brings an atmospheric depth to the novel, emphasizing the emotional states of the characters. The variations of illumination and shadow take on a symbolic significance throughout the story, and also highlight certain themes or being used to represent important moments during the narrative.
- Light representing knowledge: In the novel, the acquisition of knowledge is often depicted through light. For example, Walton describes science as a light that will “penetrate into the recesses of nature” (Letter 1). Furthermore, Victor’s creation of the creature is associated with flashes of lightning and electricity; this could symbolize the invention of groundbreaking science. The creature reads books to gain a sense of enlightenment and then discovers firelight, which gives him the ability to comprehend language.
- Light representing hope: The use of light also highlights important moments of hope throughout the novel. For instance, Walton’s crew spots a light during their expedition, which marks a turning point for their spirits, leading them to believe that they may find the North Pole (Letter 4). When Victor is near death, he describes an uplifting moment where he feels a ray of light from the moon and perceives it as a sign of hope (Chapter 23).
- Light representing isolation: Additionally, light symbolizes loneliness and isolation for certain characters. The creature feels alienated from society because he is different and is thus forced to live in the shadows. Victor, on the other hand, discusses the isolation he feels when he pursues his scientific obsession. He confesses that “all these objects of my studies…rejected me” and that his investigations worked “to create a solitude around me, from which no one could remove me” (Chapter 4).
The use of light in Frankenstein as a metaphorical device adds depth to the novel, intensifying the emotional states of the characters and reinforcing the themes. Light is a powerful symbol that may signify hope, knowledge, and isolation, contributing to the complexity of the narrative.
The role of light in the creature’s development and motivation
Light carries substantial symbolism in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and its use throughout the novel has deep implications for the creature’s development and motivation. Here are some of the ways in which light plays a significant role in the story:
- Light as a symbol of knowledge and discovery: In the novel, light often represents knowledge and discovery. We see this when Victor Frankenstein is first struck by the idea of creating life as a young student, after he witnesses a flash of lightning. Throughout the rest of the story, light is a recurring motif that represents the search for knowledge and discovery.
- Light as a symbol of hope: For the creature, light is often associated with hope. When he first discovers fire, he is overjoyed with the warmth and light it brings, which he sees as a symbol of hope and comfort amid the darkness of his existence. Later, when he takes refuge in a small hut, he becomes enamored with the family that lives there and takes great pleasure in watching them through a small chink in the wall, seeing their light as a symbol of hope for a better life.
- Light as a source of fear: In contrast, light can also be a source of fear for the creature. When he first encounters fire, he is initially frightened of it and has to learn to control it. Later, when he observes the people in the village, he becomes terrified of their reaction to his appearance and decides to retreat back into the darkness, fearing the potential danger that their light represents.
Overall, the use of light in Frankenstein carries deep symbolic meaning for the creature’s development and motivation. It represents both hope and fear, knowledge and discovery. The creature is motivated by his desire to understand the world around him and is deeply impacted by his interactions with light throughout the novel.
For more on the role of light and other symbols in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, check out the table below:
Symbol | Representation |
---|---|
Fire | Knowledge, discovery, hope |
Lightning | Transcendental knowledge, discovery |
Darkness | Ignorance, fear, isolation |
Water | Renewal, rebirth, change |
The use of symbols in Frankenstein helps to deepen the story’s themes and create a rich, complex narrative that continues to captivate readers today. By examining the use of light and other symbols, readers can gain a better understanding of the story’s rich layers of meaning and the complex motivations of its characters.
The Symbolic Meaning of Light in Frankenstein’s Character Arc
Light plays an important symbolic role in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, especially in the character arc of Victor Frankenstein. Here are some of the ways that light is used as a symbol throughout the novel:
- Divinity: Light is often associated with divinity or Godliness, and in Frankenstein, it represents the idea of Victor’s desire to create life as a god-like figure. He sees himself as “a new Prometheus” who can steal the power of creation from the divine and use it in a way that humans were never meant to.
- Knowledge: Light is also associated with knowledge and enlightenment, and in Frankenstein, it represents the pursuit of knowledge through science. Victor is obsessed with understanding the mysteries of life and death and believes that through science, he can uncover the secrets of the universe, just as light reveals the hidden details of the world.
- Growth: Light is also used to symbolize growth and progress throughout the novel. When Victor first discovers the secret of life, he describes the feeling as “a sudden light broke in upon me” and he feels that he has made a major breakthrough in his studies. Similarly, when the creature learns language and begins to understand the world around him, he describes the experience as a “new light” that has dawned on his understanding.
- Danger: Finally, light is also used as a warning or danger symbol in Frankenstein. For example, when Victor creates the creature, he describes it as being “monstrous and distorted” in its appearance, with eyes that “became small and almost vanished” in the light. This foreshadows the danger that the creature poses to society and suggests that Victor’s ambitions have gone too far.
Overall, light is a powerful symbol in Frankenstein, representing everything from divinity and knowledge to growth and danger. Through its use, Mary Shelley creates a nuanced and complex portrayal of Victor Frankenstein’s character arc, showing how his desires and ambitions ultimately lead to his downfall.
The representation of light in Mary Shelley’s literary style
Mary Shelley uses light to symbolize various themes throughout Frankenstein. The representation of light is a recurrent image in Shelley’s literary style, and it carries a range of meanings that relate to the story’s broader themes. Below are some of the ways Mary Shelley uses light in Frankenstein:
- As a symbol of knowledge: Light is used to symbolize knowledge in Frankenstein. For example, when Victor Frankenstein discovers the secret of animating life, he describes his revelation as a sudden light breaking in upon him. Enlightenment or knowledge is often depicted as a light that dispels darkness, which represents ignorance.
- As a symbol of hope: Light is also used to symbolize hope. For instance, the sunrise represents a new beginning, and it is a common symbol of hope in literature. In Frankenstein, when Victor feels overwhelmed with grief, he finds solace in the beauty of nature and the light that surrounds him.
- As a symbol of danger: In Frankenstein, light is also used to represent danger. For example, when the creature approaches Victor in the dark of night, it represents the looming danger that the creature poses. The creature is also described as having glowing eyes, which is a common trope used to convey danger or malevolence.
The significance of the number eight in Frankenstein
The number eight has significant symbolism in Frankenstein. It is a motif that is intertwined with the themes present in the novel. The following are some of the ways the number eight is used in Frankenstein:
- Victor Frankenstein’s family has eight members: The number eight represents wholeness or completeness and is often associated with family or community. The fact that Victor comes from a family of eight members underscores his ties to the community and foreshadows his eventual isolation.
- The creature comes to life on the eighth day: In Frankenstein, the creature comes to life on the eighth day of Victor’s experiment. The number eight is associated with new beginnings, and the creature’s creation represents the beginning of its life. The number eight also represents the cyclical nature of life, and the creature’s birth symbolizes the start of its life cycle.
- Eight chapters in the novel: Frankenstein is divided into eight chapters. The number eight symbolizes completeness, making the narrative feel whole and complete. Additionally, the structure of the novel reinforces the cyclical nature of the story, where the end leads back to the beginning.
The use of light in Frankenstein: A comparison between the book and the movie
The use of light in Frankenstein is a prominent motif that is present in both the book and the movie adaptations. However, the way in which light is used differs between the two. Below are some comparisons between the use of light in Frankenstein book and movie:
Frankenstein Book | Frankenstein Movie |
---|---|
Light is used to symbolize knowledge and enlightenment | Light is used to create mood and atmosphere |
Light is often associated with hope and beauty | Light is used to create tension and suspense |
Light is often used symbolically to convey the theme of nature vs. science | Light is used to create visual spectacle and special effects |
Overall, the use of light in Frankenstein is an effective literary device that helps to convey the themes and motifs present in the novel. Whether it is used to represent knowledge, hope, or danger, light is a powerful symbol that adds depth and meaning to the story. The different interpretations of light between the book and the movie adaptations show the versatility and flexibility of the motif in conveying meaning.
The Contrast Between Natural Light and Artificial Light in the Novel
Light is used as a powerful symbol throughout Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. The contrast between natural light and artificial light plays a significant role in the novel, highlighting the themes of creation and destruction, life and death, and the danger of playing God. Let’s take a closer look at how the two types of light are used and what they symbolize.
- Natural Light: Throughout the novel, natural light is often associated with life and creation. When Victor Frankenstein creates his creature, he describes the moment as “a dreary night of November” when “the rain pattered dismally against the panes” (Chapter 5). Despite the bleakness of the night, Victor is flooded with a “new species [that] would bless me as its creator and source” (Chapter 5). This moment is associated with lightning, which is a natural form of light that symbolizes life and renewal. Later on in the novel, when the creature sees the sun for the first time, he describes it as “the radiance of the warm sun” and says that it gave him “a sensation of pleasure” (Chapter 16). The sun, as a natural source of light, represents happiness, warmth, and life.
- Artificial Light: In contrast to natural light, artificial light is often associated with death and destruction. When Victor Frankenstein first brings his creature to life, he describes it as “the dull yellow eye of the creature opened” (Chapter 5). This artificial light, described as “dull,” is a symbol of a lifeless, soulless creation. Later on in the novel, the creature is often seen by candlelight, which casts distorted shadows. This artificial light symbolizes the creature’s monstrous, distorted nature and the darkness that surrounds him.
The use of natural and artificial light in Frankenstein is not only symbolic but also reflects the themes of the novel. Natural light is associated with life and creation while artificial light is linked to death and destruction. The contrast between these two types of light highlights the dangers of playing God and creating life artificially. In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein’s obsession with creating life ultimately leads to the destruction of his own life and the lives of those around him.
In conclusion, the contrast between natural light and artificial light in Frankenstein highlights the novel’s themes and serves as a powerful symbol throughout the story. Natural light symbolizes life and creation, while artificial light represents death and destruction. The use of these two types of light emphasizes the dangers of playing God and creating life artificially, a theme that remains relevant today.
Examining the imagery and symbolism of fire as a type of light in Frankenstein
Fire is a prominent symbol of light in Frankenstein and carries various meanings throughout the novel. It is often used to symbolize destruction, passion, and power, but also serves as a source of comfort and warmth in times of darkness. The following subtopics explore the various ways fire is used as a symbol of light in Frankenstein:
- The power and destructiveness of fire: In the novel, fire is often associated with the power to destroy and bring chaos. Victor Frankenstein discovers the destructive potential of fire early on in his experiments, when he burns down his laboratory in an attempt to destroy his failed creation. Similarly, the monster he creates also uses fire to cause destruction, such as when he burns down the DeLacey family’s cottage.
- Passion and desire: Fire is also used to symbolize the intense passions and desires of the characters in the novel. This is evident in Victor’s obsession with creating life, which is described as a “ardent desire… like the burning of a thirsting man” (Chapter 4). Similarly, the monster’s desire for a mate is described as “fiery emotions” (Chapter 17), reflecting the intense passion and longing he feels.
- The comforting power of fire: Despite its destructive potential, fire also serves as a source of warmth and comfort for the characters in the novel. This is evident when Victor seeks refuge in a fire during a storm, where “I found a few embers… and, throwing myself on the floor, I cleared the remains of the fuel around me” (Chapter 11). Fire also provides comfort for the DeLacey family, who use it as a source of warmth and light in their cottage.
One key example of the symbolism of fire in Frankenstein is the scene in which the monster explores the use of fire. This scene highlights the monster’s ongoing development and his growing understanding of the world around him:
“I found a fire which had been left by some wandering beggars, and was overcome with delight at the warmth I experienced from it… As I stood beside the cottage, watching the fire which burned with a steady flame, and sometimes emitted sparks, I suddenly recollected my light” (Chapter 11).
Fire Symbolism in Frankenstein | Description |
---|---|
Power and destruction | Fire is associated with destruction and chaos throughout the novel, reflecting the destructive potential of humanity’s thirst for knowledge and power. |
Passion and desire | Fire is used to symbolize the intense passions and desires of the characters in the novel, reflecting the strength of their emotions and desires. |
Comfort and warmth | Despite its destructive potential, fire also provides comfort and warmth for the characters in the novel, reflecting the potential for light and hope in times of darkness. |
Ultimately, the use of fire as a symbol of light in Frankenstein highlights the complexity of human desire and the potential for both destruction and redemption. Fire symbolizes the power and passion of humanity, as well as its potential to bring both destruction and comfort to the world around us.
FAQs – What Does Light Symbolize in Frankenstein?
1. What is the significance of light in Frankenstein?
In Frankenstein, light symbolizes knowledge and enlightenment. It represents the pursuit of knowledge that the main characters embark on throughout the novel.
2. How does light play a role in Victor Frankenstein’s scientific experiments?
Victor Frankenstein compares his scientific experiments to “a sudden light broke in upon me” which indicates that light represents the sudden realization of knowledge. It also alludes to the idea that his scientific experiments were a path towards enlightenment.
3. What does the use of light in Frankenstein reveal about the themes of the novel?
The use of light reveals the theme of knowledge and discovery. It highlights the constant pursuit of knowledge or enlightenment that the characters in the novel strive for, and how this pursuit often leads to both positive and negative outcomes.
4. What role does light play in the relationship between Victor Frankenstein and his creature?
In the novel, the creature associates light with knowledge and understanding. It is through light that the creature begins to develop an understanding of the world around him and of his own identity, leading to his desire for a companion.
5. How does the use of darkness contrast with the symbolism of light in Frankenstein?
Darkness often represents ignorance or fear in the novel, and contrasts with the theme of knowledge and enlightenment that light symbolizes. It is used to highlight the consequences of hiding from the pursuit of knowledge or by choosing to remain ignorant.
6. What does the use of light in the novel’s setting suggest?
The use of light in Frankenstein’s setting suggests that knowledge and enlightenment are within reach. It emphasizes the possibilities of discovery and innovation that are available to those willing to seek them.
7. What is the overall message about the symbolism of light in Frankenstein?
The overall message about the symbolism of light in Frankenstein suggests that the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. It highlights the importance of understanding the consequences of the actions we take in our pursuit of knowledge.
Closing Paragraph – Thanks for reading!
We hope this article has shed some light on the symbolism of light in Frankenstein. The novel explores many themes, but the use of light as a symbol for knowledge and enlightenment is one that is particularly significant. We encourage you to read the novel and explore its themes further. Thanks for reading, and please come back again for more interesting articles!