Frankenstein Test Study Guide

Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley

Born in 1797, Mary Shelley was the author of "Frankenstein" and wrote it when she was just 18 years old during the summer of 1816.

"Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus"

The subtitle draws a parallel between Victor Frankenstein and the Titan Prometheus from Greek mythology, emphasizing the novel's exploration of the dangers of unchecked knowledge and scientific ambition.

Publication Date

"Frankenstein" was published anonymously in 1818, with Mary Shelley's name appearing on the second edition in 1823.

Gothic Novel

"Frankenstein" is a classic Gothic novel, featuring a gloomy setting, mysterious atmosphere, and supernatural occurrences.

Science Fiction

"Frankenstein" is considered one of the earliest science fiction works, exploring the consequences of scientific experimentation and the ethical implications of creating life.

Romanticism

"Frankenstein" is infused with Romantic themes, including the emphasis on emotions, the sublime in nature, and the individual's confrontation with the mysterious and unknown.

Ambition and Hubris

Victor's ambition to conquer death and create life leads to his downfall, highlighting the theme of unchecked ambition.

Consequences of Scientific Discovery

Victor's creation of the creature highlights the ethical dilemmas and unintended consequences of scientific progress.

Alienation and Isolation

Both Victor and the creature experience profound isolation due to societal rejection, emphasizing the theme of the outsider.

Nature vs nurture

The creature's development and actions question whether one's nature is inherently evil or if external factors shape character.

The Pursuit of Knowledge

Victor's relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific discovery leads to tragedy, exploring the potential dangers of unbridled ambition.

Creation of the Creature

Victor Frankenstein assembles a creature from various body parts and brings it to life.

Rejection and Alienation

The creature, rejected by its creator and society, becomes an outcast, seeking companionship and understanding.

Violence and Revenge

The creature's experiences of cruelty lead to violence and a desire for revenge against Victor.

Chasing the Creature

Victor pursues the creature across Europe and into the Arctic, leading to his own physical and mental deterioration.

Tragic Resolution

The novel concludes with the tragic demise of both Victor and the creature, highlighting the destructive consequences of Victor's unchecked ambition.

Emphasis on Emotions and Imagination

Shelley explores the emotional and imaginative aspects of characters, particularly Victor's intense emotions and the creature's desire for connection.

Nature as a Powerful and Healing Force

Descriptions of nature emphasize its sublime beauty and its power to inspire and heal.

Individualism and the Sublime

The novel delves into the individual's confrontation with the unknown, especially through Victor's pursuit of forbidden knowledge.

Detailed Depiction of Characters and Settings

The novel provides a detailed portrayal of characters' emotions and the physical settings, contributing to the psychological realism of the story.

Examination of Psychological and Emotional Aspects

Victor's internal struggles and the creature's emotional development add depth to the narrative, making it a psychologically rich exploration.

Exploration of Scientific and Technological Advancements

Victor's experiments with reanimating dead tissue exemplify the scientific and technological curiosity prevalent during the Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution.

Ethical Implications of Scientific Pursuits

The novel raises ethical questions about the consequences of pushing scientific boundaries without considering the moral implications.

Frame Device/Frame Story

The novel is presented as a series of letters written by Robert Walton to his sister, framing Victor's narrative and emphasizing the isolation of the characters.

The letters from Robert Walton at the beginning and end of the novel create a sense of closure and reflection on the consequences of Victor's actions.