Mary Shelley

Definition

Mary Shelley was an English novelist best known for her groundbreaking work, 'Frankenstein,' published in 1818. She is often regarded as a key figure in Romantic literature, with her writing reflecting the themes of individualism, nature, and the supernatural that are central to the Romantic movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley wrote 'Frankenstein' when she was just 18 years old, which has become one of the earliest examples of science fiction.
2. 'Frankenstein' reflects many of the Romantic ideals, particularly the tension between humanity and nature as well as the quest for knowledge and its consequences.
3. Shelley was influenced by her parents, William Godwin and Mary Wollstonecraft, both prominent thinkers in their own right, which shaped her views on social justice and feminism.
4. In addition to 'Frankenstein,' Mary Shelley also wrote several other novels, essays, and travel writings, showcasing her literary versatility.
5. Her life was marked by personal tragedy, including the deaths of her children and her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, which deeply influenced her writing themes.

Review Questions

• How does Mary Shelley's work reflect key themes of Romanticism?
  • Mary Shelley's work, particularly 'Frankenstein,' embodies key themes of Romanticism through its focus on individual emotion, the sublime nature, and a deep concern with the consequences of unchecked ambition. The character of Victor Frankenstein illustrates the dangers of pursuing knowledge without considering moral implications. Additionally, the novel's exploration of creation mirrors Romantic ideals about the power and responsibility inherent in artistic expression.
• In what ways did Mary Shelley's personal life influence her writing?
  • Mary Shelley's personal experiences profoundly influenced her writing. The loss of her mother shortly after her birth and later tragedies in her life—including the deaths of her children—infused her work with themes of loss and existential contemplation. Her relationship with Percy Bysshe Shelley and their shared literary circles also impacted her thoughts on creation and destruction, seen vividly in 'Frankenstein.' These elements contributed to her exploration of complex emotional landscapes within her stories.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Frankenstein' on modern interpretations of scientific ethics and morality.
  • Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' serves as a cautionary tale that remains relevant in discussions about scientific ethics and morality today. The novel raises questions about the responsibility scientists have toward their creations and the societal implications of technological advancements. As modern society grapples with issues like genetic engineering and artificial intelligence, Shelley's exploration of creator versus creation resonates deeply, prompting ongoing debates about ethical boundaries in science. Thus, 'Frankenstein' not only shaped Gothic literature but also laid foundational concerns for contemporary discussions on moral accountability in scientific pursuits.

Related terms

Frankenstein: 'Frankenstein' is a novel that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a living being from dead matter, exploring themes of ambition, creation, and responsibility.

Romanticism: Romanticism was an artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, emerging as a response to the Industrial Revolution and Enlightenment rationalism.

Gothic Literature: Gothic Literature is a genre characterized by elements of horror, the supernatural, and dark romanticism, often featuring settings in mysterious or medieval locations.