Frankenstein

Definition

Frankenstein is a novel written by Mary Shelley, first published in 1818, that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a sentient creature through an unorthodox scientific experiment. This work is often considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction and explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of human ambition, marking a significant point in literary history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley conceived the idea for Frankenstein during a summer spent in Switzerland with poets Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley, where they challenged each other to write ghost stories.
2. The creature in Frankenstein is often mistakenly referred to as 'Frankenstein,' while the name actually belongs to its creator, Victor Frankenstein.
3. Frankenstein delves into ethical questions about scientific experimentation and the responsibilities that come with creation, reflecting concerns of the Industrial Revolution.
4. The novel's structure includes multiple narratives and perspectives, providing depth to its characters and themes.
5. Frankenstein has inspired countless adaptations in film, theater, and literature, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone that questions humanity's relationship with technology.

Review Questions

• How does Frankenstein reflect the ideals and characteristics of Romanticism?
  • Frankenstein embodies key elements of Romanticism by emphasizing emotion over reason and celebrating individual experience. The novel explores deep feelings such as fear, isolation, and ambition through Victor Frankenstein's obsessive pursuit of knowledge and the creature's tragic existence. These emotional struggles highlight the Romantic belief in the power of nature and the dangers associated with defying natural boundaries.
• In what ways does Gothic Literature manifest in Frankenstein, contributing to its themes and atmosphere?
  • Gothic Literature is evident in Frankenstein through its dark settings, intense emotions, and supernatural elements. The desolate landscapes where Victor pursues his experiments create an eerie atmosphere that enhances feelings of dread and foreboding. Themes such as madness, isolation, and the monstrous nature of humanity are woven throughout the narrative, showcasing the psychological horror characteristic of Gothic works.
• Discuss the significance of Prometheus in relation to Victor Frankenstein's character and the overarching message of the novel.
  • Prometheus symbolizes the quest for knowledge and its consequences, paralleling Victor Frankenstein's journey as he seeks to transcend natural limits through his scientific ambitions. Just as Prometheus suffers for his defiance against divine order, Victor faces dire repercussions for his hubris in creating life without considering its moral implications. This connection serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and highlights the ethical responsibilities that come with creation.

Related terms

Romanticism: A major literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Gothic Literature: A genre that combines elements of horror, romance, and the supernatural, often characterized by dark settings and themes of madness and decay.

Prometheus: In Greek mythology, Prometheus is the Titan who defied the gods by stealing fire and giving it to humanity, symbolizing the quest for knowledge and its potential consequences.