Mary Shelley

Definition

Mary Shelley was an English novelist best known for her groundbreaking work 'Frankenstein,' published in 1818. She is often credited with pioneering the genre of science fiction and gothic literature, intertwining themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of scientific exploration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley wrote 'Frankenstein' when she was just 18 years old, inspired by a ghost story challenge during a summer spent with other writers in Switzerland.
2. 'Frankenstein' is often considered one of the first works of science fiction due to its exploration of themes like scientific experimentation and ethical dilemmas in creation.
3. Shelley's life experiences, including the death of her mother and her relationships with notable literary figures like Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, deeply influenced her writing.
4. Her work not only contributed to gothic literature but also raised questions about morality and the responsibilities of creators toward their creations.
5. Mary Shelley's legacy continues to impact modern literature and popular culture, with 'Frankenstein' being adapted into numerous films, plays, and other media over the years.

Review Questions

• How did Mary Shelley's background influence her writing of 'Frankenstein'?
  • Mary Shelley's background significantly shaped her writing, particularly her experiences with loss and relationships with prominent literary figures. Growing up as the daughter of feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft and philosopher William Godwin, she was exposed to radical ideas about individuality and ethics. Additionally, her tumultuous relationship with Percy Bysshe Shelley and the tragic loss of their children fueled her exploration of themes like creation and despair in 'Frankenstein,' making her novel a reflection of both personal trauma and philosophical inquiry.
• In what ways did Mary Shelley contribute to the rise of genre fiction through her works?
  • Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' played a crucial role in the rise of genre fiction by blending elements of gothic horror with speculative science fiction. This innovative combination introduced new narrative possibilities that expanded traditional storytelling boundaries. By addressing complex themes such as the moral implications of scientific advancement and the nature of humanity, Shelley set the stage for future writers to explore similar issues within various genres. Her work paved the way for later science fiction narratives that question ethics in technology and creation.
• Evaluate the impact of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' on contemporary discussions about science and ethics.
  • Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' remains relevant today as it prompts critical discussions about the ethical implications of scientific advancements. The novel raises questions about responsibility in creation and the potential consequences of unchecked ambition in science. In modern contexts, these discussions resonate with current debates surrounding genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, and bioethics. By examining the relationship between creator and creation, Shelley's work encourages society to reflect on how innovation should be guided by moral considerations, underscoring its timeless impact on literature and ethical discourse.

Related terms

Frankenstein: A novel by Mary Shelley that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a sentient creature through an unorthodox scientific experiment, leading to tragic consequences.

Gothic Literature: A genre characterized by dark themes, supernatural elements, and a focus on human emotions and psychological states, often set against eerie or mysterious backdrops.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature, which influenced Shelley's writing style and thematic concerns.