WEEK 1 - The Gothic: Revisiting Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

There is a certain type of obsession with the role of God that has withstood the test of time; the all-powerful desire to dictate Life and Death—perhaps to bring back a deceased loved one, or to create an entirely new form of life. In Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”, Victor Frankenstein focuses on the latter with the creation of his monster. Unsurprisingly however, this decision acts as the catalyst for a chain of events that alter the lives of Victor, his assistant, and even his family in the worst ways imaginable. Unlike other pieces of Gothic literature however, Shelley also explores the pursuit of knowledge and the enlightening power that comes with it, through the concept of a monster who was just created. Imagine; an infant intellectually advancing so quickly to the point where they begin teaching themselves how to read, speak, and write. The monster, who had started from absolutely nothing, pursues that very knowledge in order to obtain a sense of belonging that Victor robbed him of by being the stereotypical “deadbeat dad” and running away from his problems.
In a way, although inhuman, Victor’s creation is one of the most relatable characters in the novel. Without any parental figure in his life to look up to, he is left desolate and alone, left to discover everything on his own. While most view him as terrifying and a menace to society, the fact remains that all he wants is to belong—which brings up the controversial argument of nature versus nurture. Is Victor’s creation inherently evil, or was it because of his lonely beginning that led him to kill and perform evil actions?
            Gothic themes galore in this cornerstone piece of literature, especially when it comes to the supernatural. “Creepy, dark, ominous”—the first words that come to mind when thinking of Frankenstein… and rightfully so! From dark, scarcely inhabited castles to secret rooms and mad laboratories, Shelley’s “Frankenstein” has become a staple piece of literature for any Gothic enthusiast—and an immensely enjoyable experience at that.


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