Frankenstein

Definition

Frankenstein refers to the novel written by Mary Shelley, published in 1818, which tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a sentient being through an unorthodox scientific experiment. This work is a foundational piece of Gothic literature and embodies key characteristics of Romanticism, particularly in its exploration of emotion, nature, and the consequences of humanity’s ambition. The themes and elements presented in Frankenstein make it a pivotal text for analyzing complex literary themes and characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein when she was just 18 years old during a summer spent with notable literary figures like Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley.
2. The creature in Frankenstein, often mistakenly referred to as Frankenstein itself, represents not only the consequences of scientific exploration but also deep themes of isolation and rejection.
3. The novel is structured as a series of letters from Captain Walton to his sister, creating a frame narrative that adds depth to the storytelling.
4. Frankenstein raises significant ethical questions about scientific responsibility and the pursuit of knowledge, which remain relevant in contemporary discussions about biotechnology.
5. The novel has inspired countless adaptations in film, theater, and other media, solidifying its place in popular culture and its significance in literary history.

Review Questions

• How does Frankenstein embody the key characteristics of Romanticism, particularly in its portrayal of emotion and nature?
  • Frankenstein embodies Romanticism through its emphasis on intense emotions and the natural world. Victor Frankenstein's passion for knowledge leads him to create life, reflecting the Romantic ideal of the individual striving against nature. The landscape descriptions throughout the novel also highlight nature's beauty and power, serving as a backdrop for Victor's emotional turmoil. The creature's experiences further amplify these themes by showcasing feelings of abandonment and longing for companionship.
• Discuss how Gothic elements are utilized in Frankenstein to enhance the themes of horror and human experience.
  • Gothic elements in Frankenstein include dark settings like desolate landscapes and eerie castles that create an atmosphere of fear and suspense. The isolation experienced by both Victor and the creature adds to the sense of dread while exploring the depths of human emotion. Additionally, supernatural occurrences, such as reanimation, emphasize the horror of unchecked ambition and ethical dilemmas. These Gothic features deepen our understanding of the characters' struggles with identity and morality.
• Evaluate the ethical implications presented in Frankenstein regarding scientific advancement and responsibility. How do these issues relate to modern contexts?
  • Frankenstein critically evaluates the ethical implications surrounding scientific advancements by portraying Victor's reckless pursuit of knowledge without considering the consequences. This notion resonates today as advancements in fields like genetic engineering raise questions about morality and responsibility. The creation of life and its implications challenge us to reflect on our own responsibilities toward innovation. By analyzing these themes in Frankenstein, we can better understand contemporary debates on science's role in society and the importance of ethical considerations.

Related terms

Gothic Literature: A genre characterized by elements of horror, mystery, and the supernatural, often featuring dark settings and complex emotional experiences.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and a deep appreciation for nature, reacting against the industrialization and rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Hubris: Excessive pride or self-confidence, often leading to one's downfall, a central theme in Frankenstein as Victor's ambition drives him to create life.