The Modern Prometheus modern design twist on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein | Page 42
The Modern Prometheus
which you abhor. Still thou canst listen to me and
grant me thy compassion. By the virtues that I once
possessed, I demand this from you. Hear my tale; it is
long and strange, and the temperature of this place is
not fitting to your fine sensations; come to the hut upon
the mountain. The sun is yet high in the heavens; before
it descends to hide itself behind your snowy precipices
and illuminate another world, you will have heard my
story and can decide. On you it rests, whether I quit
forever the neighbourhood of man and lead a harmless
life, or become the scourge of your fellow creatures and
the author of your own speedy ruin.”
As he said this he led the way across the ice; I
followed. My heart was full, and I did not answer him,
but as I proceeded, I weighed the various arguments
that he had used and determined at least to listen to his
tale. I was partly urged by curiosity, and compassion
confirmed my resolution. I had hitherto supposed him
to be the murderer of my brother, and I eagerly sought
a confirmation or denial of this opinion. For the first
time, also, I felt what the duties of a creator towards
his creature were, and that I ought to render him happy
before I complained of his wickedness. These motives
urged me to comply with his demand. We crossed the ice,
therefore, and ascended the opposite rock. The air was
cold, and the rain again began to descend; we entered
the hut, the fiend with an air of exultation, I with a
heavy heart and depressed spirits. But I consented to
listen, and seating myself by the fire which my odious
companion had lighted, he thus began his tale.
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