Published in 1818, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus” is an enduring classic that seamlessly blends elements of gothic horror, science fiction, and Romantic literature. Written when Shelley was just 18 years old, the novel tackles profound themes such as the quest for knowledge, the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration, and the complexities of creation and responsibility. Both a seminal work of Gothic Horror, and one of, if not the first recognizable Science Fiction novels, “Frankenstein” has earned its reputation as a classic.
The story unfolds through an intricate frame narrative, beginning with a series of letters written by Robert Walton, an Arctic explorer who encounters Dr. Victor Frankenstein. In a tale of tragedy and woe, Frankenstein recounts his story to Walton, describing his obsessive pursuit of the secrets of life and the dire consequences that ensued. Central to the story is Frankenstein’s creation—a creature assembled from parts of deceased humans and brought to life through an unspecified scientific process.
The novel excels in its deeply psychological portrayal of its characters, particularly Victor Frankenstein and his creature. Frankenstein is a tragic figure, driven by ambition and scientific curiosity. His failure is not just in playing God but in abandoning his creation, thereby failing his moral and ethical responsibilities. The creature, often mistakenly referred to as ‘Frankenstein,’ is one of the most compelling figures in literature. Intelligent and eloquent yet shunned by society, he is a living paradox: a being made of dead parts, a creature yearning for love but driven to malevolence by relentless rejection.
The beauty of the novel lies in its ambiguity. Is Frankenstein a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked scientific endeavor? Or is it a more human story about isolation, prejudice, and the inherent flaws in playing Creator? Mary Shelley leaves enough room for interpretation, making the novel a fertile ground for discussion and analysis.
Shelley’s writing is poetic and rich in metaphor. She employs lush descriptions and an intricate narrative structure to keep the reader engaged. While the language may seem archaic to some modern readers, it adds to the novel’s atmospheric quality. The pacing is deliberate, slowly unraveling the tragedies that befall the characters.
Yet, the book is not without its challenges. Contemporary readers may find some of the characters, aside from Frankenstein and his creation, to be less developed. The story’s focus on the moral dilemmas and psychological struggles of its male characters also somewhat marginalizes its female characters, which might strike a discordant note in the context of modern gender discourse.
In conclusion, “Frankenstein ” is a complex and layered novel that has captured the imaginations of readers for over two centuries. Its themes are universal, its characters unforgettable, and its ethical dilemmas still relevant. In a world where scientific and technological advances continually push the boundaries of what is possible, Mary Shelley’s masterwork remains a poignant meditation on the moral obligations that come with creation and the unfathomable consequences of neglecting them.
If you’d like to see me take a deeper dive into “Frankenstein” or the friendly competition that spawned it, which is a fascinating story in itself, let me know in the comments. Thanks for reading.
C. Wesley Clough
Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay
C. Wesley Clough 