What is the origin of phrase created a monster?

The phrase "created a monster" is not rooted in a specific origin story or historical event. It's a metaphorical expression that evolved over time, reflecting a common human fear and understanding.

Here's how the phrase likely developed:

1. Mythological Roots: Many ancient myths feature stories of creators unleashing monstrous beings. Think of Pandora's Box, Prometheus's fire, or the Biblical story of Adam and Eve. These tales highlight the potential for creation to be both beneficial and destructive.

2. Frankenstein Effect: The 1818 novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley cemented the idea of creators being responsible for monstrous outcomes. Victor Frankenstein, in his pursuit of knowledge, creates a monstrous creature that ultimately brings him destruction.

3. Everyday Usage: The phrase "created a monster" became commonplace in everyday language, reflecting a fear of unintended consequences. It's used to describe situations where someone's actions, whether intentional or not, have resulted in something harmful or uncontrollable.

Examples of the phrase's usage:

* "By trying to control everything, the government created a monster of bureaucracy."

* "The company's relentless pursuit of profits created a monster of environmental destruction."

* "His desire for power created a monster of ambition."

While the phrase doesn't have a singular origin, it taps into a deep-seated human concern about the potential for creation to lead to unintended consequences.