Mary Shelley Frankenstein Research Paper

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, written in 1818, dives into complex themes that reflect the societal attitudes of the early 19th century. One prominent topic is the role of gender, and Shelley’s work both challenges and reaffirms the prevailing views of her time. In the early 19th century, societal attitudes towards gender roles were rigid and hierarchical. Women were confined to the domestic sphere, tasked with maintaining the home and nurturing children, while men dominated the public sphere, engaging in work, politics, and intellectual pursuits. The doctrine of separate spheres dictated that women were inherently suited for domesticity and moral guardianship, whereas men were viewed as rational and capable of contributing to society beyond

This era saw significant advancements in various fields of science and technology, leading to transformative changes in society. Key figures like Humphry Davy and pioneers in galvanism played crucial roles in this scientific fervor, pushing the boundaries of human understanding and capability. Humphry Davy, a renowned chemist, made groundbreaking discoveries such as the isolation of several alkali and alkaline earth metals and the invention of the Davy lamp, which improved safety in coal mines. His work symbolized the era’s spirit of innovation and the belief that science could vastly improve human life. Galvanism, named after Luigi Galvani, was another area that captured the imagination of the period. It involved the study of the effects of electric currents on biological organisms. Galvani’s experiments in the late 18th century, which showed that frog legs twitched when struck by an electric spark, laid the foundation for further exploration into bioelectricity. This field suggested the possibility of reanimating life, a concept that captivated the public and scientific community alike. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a critical literary response to this unbridled enthusiasm for scientific progress. Victor Frankenstein’s obsessive pursuit of creating life epitomizes the era’s scientific ambition, but also serves as a cautionary tale.

His drive to push the boundaries of human capability and to achieve greatness in the scientific realm resonates with the era’s enthusiasm for discovery and innovation. For example, Victor’s excitement about the potential impact of his work is evident when he declares, “Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend the discovery, if I could banish disease from the human frame, and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death!” (Shelley 30). This quote highlights his noble aspirations and the belief that science could bring about monumental benefits to humanity. Victor embodies the ideal of the scientist-hero, whose efforts could lead to significant advancements and improvements in the human condition. However, Victor’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of neglecting ethical considerations in scientific pursuits. His single-minded ambition and disregard for the moral implications of his actions lead to disastrous consequences. Victor’s obsessive dedication to his project is evident when he reflects. “I had worked hard for two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this I had deprived myself of rest and health” (Shelley 33). This quote underscores the extent of Victor’s commitment, but also foreshadows the physical and emotional toll his ambition