Review | Frankenstein - Mary Shelley

Frankenstein is by name, at least in my mind, a story that should be universally recognized at this point. It's certainly one of the many that has been put through the Hollywood shredder over and over, only to be resembled with bits and pieces of the original story with junk added in between. It's a shame that the closest representation of our beloved monster is in the magnificent casting and wonderful Showtime show Penny Dreadful. While the story isn't fully the same, we get a gimps at an accurate representation of the beautifully spoken, yellow eyed, pale skinned fiend. That being said for those unfamiliar with the story of Frankenstein, this is a classic worth reading, discussing, and ruminating on.

How It Began

In a preface written by Percy Shelley posing as his wife, the idea behind Frankinstein began on a trip with friends, and as a friendly competition to write a ghost story. The book was first published anonymously in 1818, and it wasn't until 1821 that the book was first credited to Mary Shelley.

Summery

A young man from a distinguished and wealthy family finds he has an interest in science. Victor Frankenstein goes on to study science in Ingolstadt, and eventually discovers a way to construct his own life form. Upon completing this task, he is frightened by the unusual appearance and abandons his creation. The "Monster" goes on to learn how to speak, read and care for itself after a long period of observation. He resolves to find Victor and requests that another like himself be created so that he can experience love and affection much like other humans do. Victor is reluctant, and thus The Monster is determined to make his life miserable. After much death, the two end up in a chase that leads to Victor's own eventual death, upon which the creature finds his life has no more meaning. 

Victor VS The Monster

In my reading of this story, the question of who was worse popped into my head. There are themes of right and wrong throughout the story, be that in who is guilty of what, or questions of morality. But of course we should start with Victor as there would be no story had Victor never created the monster in the first place. The initial creation of the monster in itself is a big question of Morality. Was it right for him to even pursue the creation? If so it would be Victor's responsibility, one in which he easily abandoned, leaving the monster to fend for itself. The answer to this question isn't a simple one, however we can all agree that responsibility should be taken for our actions.

Yes the monster's life is a sad story, and yes people treat him like crap, but does that mean it's okay for him to kill innocence? Even he regrets his actions in the end. Revenge is a false and bad friend. It may seem like the logical choice in the midst of rage and hate, but generally one will find that it leaves no advantage and resolves no feelings.

My Final Thoughts

This book is a classic scenario of, you were too busy wondering if you could you didn't stop and ask yourself whether or not you should. I'm sure Jeff Goldblum would agree. While the over emotional aspects of the characters at times left me wanting to roll my eyes, I very much enjoyed the story and would recommend it to anyone who hasn't read it. I would highly encourage those who have only seen Hollywood depictions to read it and discover for yourselves, that the story of Frankenstein isn't as ridiculous as you think it may be.

Interesting Fact

Victor's "cousin" Elizabeth who (depending if the edition was released after 1831) was adopted from a poor Italian family. Was originally his real cousin, the daughter of a family member, it was eventually changed in a later edition.

NOTE:

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