Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus - by Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a classic novel that has captured the imaginations of readers for over two centuries. It is a story that explores the darker side of human nature and the consequences of scientific ambition. First published in 1818, the novel continues to be studied, adapted, and interpreted in various media forms to this day.

The novel is told through a series of letters and narratives, following the life of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant scientist who becomes obsessed with creating life. He sets out to create a human being, using body parts from different corpses. After months of hard work and experimentation, he succeeds in creating a creature, but he is horrified by the result. The creature is monstrous, with yellow eyes and a grotesque appearance.

The rest of the novel explores the consequences of Frankenstein's actions. The creature, who is abandoned by his creator, is left to navigate the world on his own. He is initially kind and gentle, but as he experiences rejection and isolation, he becomes bitter and vengeful. He seeks revenge against Frankenstein and his loved ones, ultimately leading to a tragic ending.

At its core, Frankenstein is a cautionary tale about the dangers of playing God. Shelley was writing at a time when science was rapidly advancing, and the idea of creating life through experimentation was not entirely out of the realm of possibility. She was also grappling with the loss of her own child, which likely influenced the themes of birth, creation, and death that permeate the novel.

In addition to its commentary on science and the human condition, Frankenstein is also notable for its literary style. Shelley was a master of Gothic fiction, and the novel is full of atmospheric descriptions and unsettling imagery. The creature's creation scene, in particular, is a powerful and iconic moment in the book.

The novel has had a significant impact on popular culture, with countless adaptations and references in film, television, and literature. It has also been interpreted in various ways over the years, with some seeing it as a feminist work that critiques the male-dominated scientific establishment, while others view it as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and ego.

In conclusion, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a timeless work of literature that continues to captivate readers today. Its exploration of science, ambition, and the consequences of playing God remain relevant and thought-provoking, while its Gothic style and powerful imagery continue to inspire and unsettle readers. It is a novel that deserves its place in the literary canon and will continue to be studied and enjoyed for generations to come.

Vocabulary matching exercise:

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You can access the exercise here: Vocabulary exercise

Everything you need to know before reading "Frankenstein".

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Plot summary.

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Read (and listen to, if you like) the full book.

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You can read the book online here: Frankenstein

Post-reading - online quizzes:

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