In evoking traditional martial virtues Walton unwittingly echoes Milton's Satan who
stresses this and other such heroic virtues throughout Paradise Lost. The strongest
echo is to a passage whose dynamics will come to dominate the relationship between
Victor Frankenstein and his Creature in the novel, an attachment based more and more
on passionate revenge.
What though the field be lost?
All is not lost; the unconquerable will,
And study of revenge, immortal hate,
And courage never to submit or yield:
And what is else not to be overcome?
That glory never shall his wrath or might
Extort from me.
-- I.105-111 Later in Book I Satan's vengeful courage is reinforced by Milton: his
face
Deep scars of thunder had intrencht, and care
Sat on his faded cheek, but under brows
Of dauntless courage, and considerate pride
Waiting revenge.
-- I.600-604