Mary Shelley

Definition

Mary Shelley was an English novelist, best known for her groundbreaking work 'Frankenstein,' published in 1818. She is a key figure in the Gothic literary tradition, intertwining themes of horror, science, and morality while also exploring the complexities of creation and responsibility, reflecting a profound engagement with philosophical and religious questions of her time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' is often considered one of the first science fiction novels, blending elements of Gothic horror with profound ethical questions about creation and humanity.
2. Shelley wrote 'Frankenstein' during a summer spent in Switzerland with her future husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, which inspired the novel's themes of isolation and ambition.
3. The character of Victor Frankenstein reflects the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the moral implications of playing God, making it a critical commentary on both Romanticism and Enlightenment values.
4. Mary Shelley's exploration of female identity and motherhood in her works adds depth to her Gothic narratives, often addressing the struggles women faced in a patriarchal society.
5. Shelley's contributions to literature extended beyond 'Frankenstein'; she wrote other novels, essays, and biographies that continued to engage with social issues and the role of women in society.

Review Questions

• How does Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' exemplify key characteristics of the Gothic novel?
  • 'Frankenstein' exemplifies key characteristics of the Gothic novel through its dark atmosphere, exploration of human fears related to creation and death, and its portrayal of isolation. The novel's settings, like desolate landscapes and eerie laboratories, enhance its sinister tone. Additionally, the emotional extremes experienced by Victor Frankenstein and his creature reflect common Gothic themes of torment, despair, and existential dread.
• Analyze how Mary Shelley's personal life influenced the themes present in her works.
  • Mary Shelley's personal life significantly influenced her writing, particularly in 'Frankenstein.' Her experiences with loss, such as the deaths of her mother and children, informed her exploration of themes like creation and destruction. These personal tragedies led to an introspective view on motherhood and responsibility that permeates her work. Shelley's relationships with prominent figures in Romanticism also shaped her perspectives on societal expectations and individual ambition.
• Evaluate the impact of Mary Shelley's contributions to literature on contemporary views regarding ethics in science.
  • Mary Shelley's contributions to literature have had a lasting impact on contemporary discussions surrounding ethics in science. Through 'Frankenstein,' she raised critical questions about scientific responsibility and the moral implications of creation—issues that resonate today with advancements in biotechnology and artificial intelligence. Her cautionary tale serves as a foundational narrative that continues to inspire debates on ethical boundaries in scientific exploration, highlighting the enduring relevance of her work in our modern context.

Related terms

Frankenstein:

'Frankenstein' is the novel written by Mary Shelley that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a sentient being through unorthodox experimentation, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences.

Romanticism:

Romanticism is an artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and the sublime aspects of nature, often contrasting with the Enlightenment's focus on reason and logic.

Gothic Novel: The Gothic novel is a genre characterized by its use of dark settings, supernatural elements, and emotional extremes, often exploring themes of horror, death, and the uncanny.