It was very different when the masters of the science sought immortality and power; such views, although futile, were grand; but now the scene was changed.
Chapter 3 · Narrator
Context
Victor reflects on his disillusionment with modern science after meeting Krempe. He contrasts the grand ambitions of medieval alchemists with what he sees as the small-minded goals of contemporary scientists.
Analysis
Victor concedes that alchemical goals were "futile" but insists they were "grand," valuing the scale of ambition over the truth of results. The theatrical phrase "the scene was changed" borrows the language of stagecraft, suggesting Victor views intellectual history as a drama in which he's a disappointed audience member. This priority—grandeur over accuracy—previews the reckless ambition that will drive his later experiments.
Essay Tip
Support a thesis that Victor's tragedy stems from valuing spectacle over ethics—here he openly admits he prefers impossible "grand" goals to modest truthful ones, revealing the egotism behind his later creation of the creature.