“…the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life.” (pg. 34)
The philosopher’s stone is a legendary object that has been the pursuit of countless alchemists for centuries. It is claimed that this substance has the ability to turn worthless metals into gold. The elixir of life is a powerful potion that is believed to give the consumer immortality. This substance was as equally sought after by alchemists as the philosopher’s stone. However, since both materials are of myth, they have never been found. Shelley includes these two legendary objects to show how Frankenstein becomes interested in “banish[ing] disease from the human frame, and render[ing] man invulnerable,” a fascination that quickly becomes his objective in creating the monster.
"Philosophers Stone, Alchemy - Crystalinks." Crystalinks Metaphysical and Science Website. Web. 13 Aug. 2009. http://www.crystalinks.com/philosopherstone.html
"Elixir of life: Information from Answers.com." Answers.com. Web. 13 Aug. 2009. http://www.answers.com/topic/elixir-of-life-2
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