1) Introduction
a) Hook - "It is easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities." Josiah Charles Stamp
b) Thesis - In the Gothic novel Frankenstein, Shelley shows the reader how the human desire to acquire and utilize knowledge and technology can be a double edged sword for humanity, and if not utilized carefully and responsibly, can harm and possibly destroy us.
2) Biographical Information
a) Birth - August 30 1797 in London, England
b) Death - February 1, 1851 in London, England
c) Highlights well educated poet and novelist, married Percy Bysshe Shelley
3) Plot Summary
a) Opens with the letters of Captain Robert Walton to his sister
b) Victor Frankenstein born in wealthy household
c) Frankenstein, because of his love of science, produces a monstrous creature
d) Monster rejected by creator, later rejected by other humans
e) Monster becomes hateful, begins spree of terror searching for creator
f) Frankenstein agrees to create partner for monster, sabotages new creation
g) Victor reaches North Pole searching for monster, narrates story to Captain
h) Frankenstein dies, monster appears, vows to destroy self
4) Elements of Fiction
a) Dynamic Characters
i) Victor Frankenstein
(1) Begins wealthy, enthusiastic, curious
(2) personal conflict with ego, conflict with creation
(3) Becomes obsessed with destruction of creation, mirrors somber tone ii) The Monster
(1) Begins ignorant, outcast
(2) Unwanted, unloved, learns from personal experience with De Lacey's
(3) Becomes obsessive, destructive
b) Tone:
i) Happy during some family moments ii) Somber, mysterious throughout most of story iii) Later portion of book feels cold, figurative
c) Imagery:
i) Frequent use of night and darkness, adds to mystery and suspense ii) Creation described as an "interesting creature," shows both the creature and creators detachment from society
iii)