Frankenstein

Definition

Frankenstein is a novel written by Mary Shelley, first published in 1818, which explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. This work is often considered a cornerstone of Gothic fiction, embodying its key characteristics such as the sublime, the monstrous, and the exploration of human emotions in dark settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frankenstein was originally published anonymously, and Mary Shelley did not receive full credit for her work until later editions.
2. The novel explores the consequences of scientific exploration and the moral responsibilities of creators toward their creations.
3. Frankenstein's creature is often misunderstood; rather than being inherently evil, it reflects the impact of isolation and societal rejection.
4. Shelley's work is credited with establishing science fiction as a literary genre by incorporating scientific ideas into its narrative.
5. The story's origins can be traced back to a ghost story challenge among friends during a summer spent in Switzerland with Lord Byron.

Review Questions

• How does Frankenstein exemplify the characteristics of Gothic fiction through its themes and setting?
  • Frankenstein embodies Gothic fiction through its exploration of dark themes such as isolation, monstrosity, and existential dread. The eerie settings, including desolate landscapes and gloomy laboratories, contribute to an atmosphere of suspense and horror. The emotional turmoil experienced by both Victor Frankenstein and his creature highlights the psychological aspects central to Gothic literature, illustrating the tension between creator and creation.
• Discuss the political and social implications reflected in Frankenstein within the context of the Romantic period.
  • Frankenstein reflects the political and social anxieties of the Romantic period, particularly regarding industrialization and scientific progress. The fear of technology overpowering humanity is evident in Victor Frankenstein's tragic quest for knowledge. Shelley's portrayal of alienation resonates with contemporary concerns about individualism versus societal expectations, revealing how these themes connect to broader Romantic ideals about nature and human emotion.
• Evaluate how Mary Shelley's portrayal of creation in Frankenstein serves as a critique of Romantic philosophy regarding human ambition and responsibility.
  • Mary Shelley's portrayal of creation in Frankenstein critiques Romantic philosophy by emphasizing the dangers of unchecked ambition and lack of responsibility. Victor's relentless pursuit of knowledge mirrors Romantic ideals but ultimately leads to tragedy for both him and his creature. Shelley's narrative warns against the hubris associated with playing God, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from understanding one's limitations and responsibilities toward others—ideas that resonate deeply within Romantic thought.

Related terms

Gothic Literature: A genre of fiction characterized by elements of horror, the supernatural, and dark romanticism, often set in gloomy castles or remote landscapes.

The Modern Prometheus: A subtitle for Frankenstein, highlighting the theme of man’s hubris and the pursuit of knowledge that leads to catastrophic consequences.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature over classical ideals, profoundly influencing literature and art in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.