Frankenstein Mary Shelley

Frankenstein”; or, “The Modern Prometheus”, published in 1818, is one of the most influential works in the history of English literature.

The first title, “Frankenstein”, refers to “Victor Frankenstein”, the scientist- not, as is often misunderstood, the monster he created. The second one refers to the Greek god “Prometheus”, who created the first human. After “Zeus” (the king of the gods) took fire away from humans, “Prometheus” returned it to them. As punishment for these actions, “Zeus” had “Prometheus” chained to a rock for eternity and sent an eagle to eat his liver. The liver grew back each night, and each day the eagle returned, condemning “Prometheus” to eternal torture. This second title links “Victor” and “Prometheus”; both defy heaven in taking the power of creating life, reserved for heaven alone, and suffer tremendously as a result.

The novel has influenced scientific thinking and has become a modern myth. Its value lies not only in its literary qualities, plot, and characters, but also in its reflective focus and compassionate approach to the character of the creature of “Frankenstein”. In her novel, “Mary Shelley” explores common themes of the time in which she wrote the novel. During the 19th century, the Western societies were making numerous bold scientific advances. “Frankenstein” is a response to uncheck scientific power and dubious ethics. Many religious individuals saw these scientific advances as a slight against God. This novel is a response to this particular social turmoil.

Although certainly a member of the horror genre, this novel can also be viewed in a Romantic lens as well. Romanticism was an artistic movement that highlighted the beauty of nature above all else. Certain themes in this novel enforce this idea- the concept that man cannot achieve anything better than nature itself has is critical to exploring “Frankenstein