Cleopatra and Frankenstein

In Cleopatra and Frankenstein, characters search for a purpose in life. Frank’s purpose stems from his sense of responsibility. He likes to take care of others and to be seen as a reliable provider. Frank dedicates himself to this pursuit without realizing that working hard to fund a certain lifestyle for himself and others is not a real purpose. Frank is obsessed with his work. The stress keeps Frank away from discovering his other layers. To let off steam, he parties and drinks too much.

Frank believes this cycle of working and partying is fine so long as he can provide for his sister or for Cleo. However, this dilutes Frank’s search for purpose. The hamster wheel of work and partying keeps him away from self-care and love. Frank didn’t grow up in a stable home environment and feels his purpose is to make sure that he never suffers financially or relies on other people for financial stability. Frank works hard so that Cleo can have a place to live and focus on her artwork, but her criticisms make him feel unappreciated. Thus, what Frank has placed his life’s purpose into—taking care of others—feels unsatisfying.