Mary Shelley

Definition

Mary Shelley was an English novelist best known for her groundbreaking work 'Frankenstein,' published in 1818. Her writings embody the principles of the Romantic Movement, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism, while also exploring the complex relationship between humanity and technology, which was particularly relevant during the 19th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' is often considered one of the first science fiction novels, combining elements of Gothic horror with philosophical questions about creation and responsibility.
2. The novel was inspired by a challenge from Lord Byron during a summer spent in Switzerland, where Shelley began writing the story after a night of ghost stories.
3. Shelley's life was marked by personal tragedy, including the death of her mother shortly after her birth and the loss of several children, which deeply influenced her writing.
4. She was part of a literary circle that included notable figures such as Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, which helped shape her ideas and style.
5. 'Frankenstein' reflects the tensions of its time, addressing fears about scientific advancement and moral responsibility amidst the Industrial Revolution.

Review Questions

• How does Mary Shelley's work exemplify the principles of Romanticism?
  • Mary Shelley's work exemplifies Romanticism through its emphasis on emotion and individual experience. In 'Frankenstein,' she explores deep feelings of isolation and despair faced by both Victor Frankenstein and his creature. The novel also highlights humanity's connection to nature and the consequences of forsaking it for technological ambition, which aligns with Romantic ideals.
• Discuss the significance of 'Frankenstein' in relation to Gothic literature and its themes.
  • 'Frankenstein' is significant in Gothic literature as it blends horror with philosophical inquiry. The novel features dark themes such as creation gone awry and the monstrous consequences of unchecked ambition. Shelley's portrayal of the creature evokes sympathy while raising questions about morality and societal rejection, making it a profound exploration of human emotion within the Gothic tradition.
• Evaluate how Mary Shelley's personal experiences influenced her writing in 'Frankenstein' and its broader impact on literature.
  • Mary Shelley's personal experiences profoundly influenced her writing in 'Frankenstein,' particularly her encounters with loss and grief. The early death of her mother and her own tragic losses shaped her views on creation and mortality. This emotional depth resonates throughout the novel, allowing it to transcend mere horror to engage with existential themes. Shelley's work has had a lasting impact on literature by pioneering science fiction as a genre and inviting ongoing discussions about ethics in science and technology.

Related terms

Romanticism:

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

Gothic Literature: A genre characterized by dark themes, supernatural elements, and a focus on human emotion, often exploring the tension between reason and passion.

Prometheus: A figure from Greek mythology who defied the gods by giving fire to humanity, symbolizing the quest for knowledge and the consequences of overreaching ambition, a central theme in 'Frankenstein.'