Fortitude's Way

Matt McIntyre

Intro to Lit

October 17, 2013

Dr. Ellis

Fortitude’s Way

            In the first half of Frankenstein by Shelley, as well as the short poems “Theology” by Dunbar, “Tableau” by Cullen and the prayer event, there was one consistent theme of persistence. In all these works, there was no truly obvious similarity in the basic makeup of the writings.  When they were examined deeper, the untold themes of dedication and persistence were clear. All in different ways, but each show the fortitude to stand up for what you believe in. No matter what it may be, if someone has enough faith in something, they will stop at nothing to make it happen.

            First, in Frankenstein, Victor hears of a creature that Frankenstein had made. After nursing Frankenstein to health and hearing his story, he becomes determined to bring to life a creation of his own using old body parts. Although the book does not say it obviously, it can only be assumed that Victor thought about possible wrongful outcomes, as any scientist would. Even if he had been more careful, his drive wouldn’t let him let go out this dream.  The creation comes to life and turns out to horrify Victor yet his original persistence (or maybe obsession) to make this dream a reality overcame him. He would not stop until the deed was done, as he had become infatuated once he heard of Frankenstein’s own creation. There was a blatant example of persevering.

            Next, in “Theology”, the theme is more of an interpreted theme because of how short to poem is. It describes the existence of a heaven and a hell, but it is titled “Theology” which means the study of God. To believe in something like religion, which may not be provable by science or logic, takes a lot of courage and disregard to opposing taunts and negative views. You must persevere through adversity, much like the person in this short poem did by staying loyal to God.

            Also, in “Tableau”, it begins with a white boy and a black boy holding hands peacefully. They are very much indignant as they walked unified without any regard to the outsiders who may disagree with what they are doing. Just as religion, it takes much strength to fight for civil liberty in a time period or place where it is strongly opposed. These boys were adamant about their friendship regardless of color. It really should not be a big deal as they walk by people, no wonder at all, but people cannot understand these boys young minds, which were not raised to develop an emotionally disconnect from that of another race. These two boys opposes commonplace and showed their fortitude in each other and their belief.

            Lastly, we shall discuss the prayer event. This one is the most obvious. Also, it strongly relates to the poem I described, “Theology”. When I went to pray, I realized I have strayed away from that type of worship and behavior. I realize what I was missing was my drive, my ambition, my fortitude and my perseverance to exemplify my faith even if it was not “cool” in today’s society standards. Once I saw this, I realized your faith is based on your persistence in backing up a mere belief that you cannot prove factually, yet people (still some young men and women who were not me) still turned out for this event and took part. They realize that buying into a belief may be a gamble, but if it is your true belief, you must persevere all doubts, always.