“Frankenstein,” by Mary E. Shelley
1993 (originally published in 1818), Barnes and Noble Inc., 242 pages, Grades 9-12.
In 1818, Mary Shelley anonymously published the novel “Frankenstein.” It was one of the first books ever written in the genre that would become known as horror literature.
For 200 years, this novel has been the subject of innumerable essays and a number of films. What accounts for the book’s continuing appeal? What did Mary Shelley touch upon in the novel that had such an influence on readers? Though it is simple enough to look at this story as a tale about a strange and savage creature, Shelley is likely trying to explain the consequences of making selfish and evil choices.
Additionally, what is the role of science and the scientist? What guidance do scientists need to avoid creating a barbaric result? These questions are at the heart of this novel.
Victor Frankenstein is a genial young man from a prosperous family. Intelligent and inquisitive, Victor begins studying alchemists from the medieval ages. Upon arriving at the university, he tells his professors of his interest in alchemists and is abruptly informed that this study of turning base metals like lead into gold is simply superstition. He will be a poor student of science with such silly ideas in his head.
With this, Victor begins reading science books voraciously and trying to learn everything there is to know about the physical world. But while his knowledge of science grows, he neglects the development of a morality that can control his human weaknesses. Eventually, he decides to create a being from his own mind based on his knowledge and existence.
After years of struggle, he successfully creates a living being. But much to his surprise and dismay, the creature is hideously ugly and frightening. It is also huge. Victor begins to loath this vile-looking creature and regrets ever deciding to create it. The creature realizes how vulgar and ugly it is and flees from Frankenstein. Soon the creature begins to act more and more like a monster.
Instead of being created in the likeness of God, Victor has created an evil copy of himself. Many strange happenings begin. Several people are murdered — close friends and family members of Frankenstein. It is as if the diabolical being is trying to punish Victor for creating him. Finally, to solve his own terror and fear, Frankenstein decides to hunt down the monster. But when they meet, some strange things happen. What are they?
Does Victor Frankenstein destroy the evil creature he made? Who should have the power of death and life? Can science be used in ways that are destructive to humanity? What would account for that? What is Mary Shelley really telling us in this classic morality tale? To find out the answers to these and other questions, go to the library and check out “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley.
Shelley’s masterpiece is quite relevant today. What is the role of science and the scientific community? Does mankind have the proper knowledge to manipulate substances like DNA? Have today’s scientists developed a moral system to match their speculative knowledge? Or will they, like Victor Frankenstein, discover too late that they simply have an unhealthy, prideful curiosity? The sobering questions posed by Mary Shelley still need to be addressed in contemporary society. We are the creatures, not the Creator. This must always be kept in mind if we are to avoid the mistakes made by Victor Frankenstein.
