The popularity of the Frankenstein monster can be attributed to a few factors.
First, the novel “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus” by Mary Shelley, is considered a classic of Gothic literature and has been widely read since its publication in 1818. The story of a scientist who creates a living creature from reanimated body parts is both thrilling and terrifying, tapping into our fears of playing God and the consequences that may follow.
Second, the character of the monster itself is compelling. Despite his gruesome appearance, the monster is portrayed as intelligent and capable of deep emotion, making him a sympathetic figure. He is rejected by his creator and society, leading him to seek revenge and ultimately causing tragedy for both himself and those around him.
Finally, the themes explored in the novel – the dangers of scientific ambition, the responsibility of creators to their creations, and the consequences of isolation and rejection – are timeless and continue to resonate with readers today.
In short, the popularity of the Frankenstein monster can be attributed to its gripping storyline, complex characters, and enduring themes that connect with our deepest fears and desires.
Some of the deepest fears and desires that are connected with the story of Frankenstein and the monster include:
- Fear of the unknown: The creation of the monster represents the fear of the unknown and the dangers of meddling in things we do not fully understand.
- Fear of death: The monster’s reanimated body parts and lack of a clear identity or purpose can be unsettling and may tap into our fear of death and the unknown beyond.
- The desire for control: Frankenstein’s ambition to create life and control nature represents a deep-seated human desire for control over our environment and our lives.
- Fear of rejection and isolation: The monster’s rejection by Frankenstein and society highlights the fear of being rejected and isolated and the desire for acceptance and belonging.
- Moral responsibility: The novel also explores the theme of moral responsibility, as Frankenstein struggles with the consequences of his creation and the harm it causes, raising questions about the limits of scientific ambition and the responsibility of creators to their creations.
Overall, the story of Frankenstein and the monster taps into some of our most fundamental fears and desires, exploring complex themes that continue to resonate with readers today.
ABOUT MARY SHELLEY
Mary Shelley (1797-1851) was a British novelist, short story writer, and essayist, best known for her novel “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus” published in 1818. Shelley was born in London to prominent parents: her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was a famous feminist writer and philosopher, and her father, William Godwin, was a political philosopher and novelist.
Shelley’s early years were marked by tragedy. Her mother died shortly after giving birth to her, and she was raised by her father and stepmother. At the age of 16, Shelley eloped with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, and the two traveled extensively throughout Europe. During this time, Shelley began writing “Frankenstein,” which was inspired by a ghost story competition with her husband and other writers.
“Frankenstein” was an immediate success and has since become a classic of Gothic literature, exploring themes such as scientific ambition, moral responsibility, and the dangers of playing God. Shelley went on to write several other novels, including “The Last Man” and “Lodore,” as well as numerous short stories and essays.
Throughout her life, Shelley faced numerous personal and professional challenges, including the deaths of three of her children and her husband and financial difficulties. Despite these struggles, she continued to write and remained a prominent figure in literary circles until she died in 1851. Shelley’s contributions to literature have had a lasting impact, and her work continues to be studied and celebrated today.
