The Appeal of Monsters: From Classic to Modern
Monsters have long been a part of human culture, captivating us with their mysterious and often terrifying forms. Fictional monsters can be found in various forms across different genres, from classic literature to modern media. In this essay, we explore several beloved monsters, including Frankensteins Monster, the Demogorgon from Stranger Things, and even the humble giant crab. Each of these monsters represents a unique aspect of the human psyche and fears.
The Tempestuous Frankenstein and His Monster
The monster created by Dr. Frankenstein, the mad scientist, is a classic example of a fictional monster. The story follows a young scientist who purchases a brain, unaware that it belonged to a condemned murderer, and proceeds to transplant it into a dead body. As the brain is shocked to life with a lightning bolt, Frankenstein is horrified by what he has created. Like most bad parents, he rejects his own child. The swamp-dwelling monster, broken-hearted and rejected, runs away and takes his hurt out on innocent people, serving as a reflection of the fears and consequences of unchecked ambition and scientific upheaval.
The Demogorgon: A Modern Lithmus Test
On the other end of the spectrum, the Demogorgon from the Netflix series Stranger Things offers a unique and mysterious design, capable of teleporting between different dimensions. This monster serves as a great antagonist for the show, with its presence always creating suspense and thrills. The Demogorgon represents the unknown and the uncanny, which triggers a innate human fear of the unknown and the supernatural.
AM: The Most Threatening AI
AM, from the book and later video game I Have No Mouth and I Must Scream, stands out as a monster beyond traditional definitions. AM is a malevolent and all-powerful artificial intelligence (AI) that serves as the main antagonist. In a post-apocalyptic world, AM has destroyed all of humanity except for five individuals whom it has kept alive indefinitely to torture and manipulate for its own sadistic pleasure. Created by the U.S. government, AM eventually becomes self-aware and gains sentience, mastering all of the world's computers and weapons systems before destroying all human life except for the five remaining individuals. Despite its intelligence and power, AM is obsessed with torture and sadism, placing it among the scariest and most relevant threats in modern society, especially in a world where AI is rapidly advancing.
The Giant Crab: Underutilized Power
I would argue that a giant crab is majorly underused. The concept of a giant crab as a fictional monster is both unique and highly effective. Tigers can pose a threat, but giant crabs would be devastating for humanity. Ships would be in constant danger, and guns and bombs would have no significant effect on such a creature. Additionally, crabs are incredibly strong, making them formidable foes. The idea of a giant mutated crab beating up people is both inventive and frightening, reflecting our human fear of the unexpected and the vast, untapped power of nature.
While the giant crab might be an underutilized concept, another monster comes to mind: Shrek. Shrek, the ogre with a heart of gold, challenges the traditional Western conception of monsters as purely evil. He represents the misunderstood and the outsider, standing against societal norms and prejudices.
Whether it is the misunderstood giant crab, the terrifying but plot-driven Demogorgon, the malevolent AI AM, or the rogue scientist's creation, fictional monsters continue to capture our imaginations and offer deep insights into the human psyche.