Frankenstein: A Reflection of Culture and Fear Anonymous College

The story of how and why author Mary Shelley wrote the novel Frankenstein is a story within itself. Living as a young woman in 19th century England who experienced a notable amount of pain and loss was heavily reflected in her writing. Each aspect of the groundbreaking and controversial text is a striking characterization of the cultural anxieties and values of the time as well as exaggerated personifications of Shelley’s own experiences. To make meaningful connections between the character of the creature and cultural standards the time, one must dive into the historical context of the Industrial Revolution, the rise of the Romantic genre, and the role of science in society. The text itself serves as a cautionary tale warning readers of the dangers of the misuse science and technology, represents the fragmented social and economic hierarchy that impacted the functionality of its society, and its genre of Romanticism brings forth the subject of individuality. Shelley’s Frankenstein confronts cultural movements, stigmas, and values with its commentary through science fiction.

In order to delve into Shelley’s subconscious and conscious motivators for writing about the themes that she did, one must analyze the impact of the...