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1. What invention in 1769 sparked off the Industrial Revolution? How did it influence Mary Shelly’s writing in Frankenstein?
The invention of the steam engine spurred the Industrial Revolution, and changed the way people viewed science. Previously, science had been a secretive realm-an undertaking to be feared. With the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, people began to see science less in the realm the unattainable and more as a quest for knowledge open to all. In her novel, Frankenstein, Mary Shelly’s main character tries to break away from the science establishment to forge new ground.
2. What phenomenon of science seemed to show that reanimation was possible?
Electricity seemed to have the properties necessary for reanimation.
3. When was Frankenstein published? How was Frankenstein received by the reading public?
Frankenstein was published anonymously in 1818. The novel was well received by some, but had mixed reviews. Sir Walter Scott, the famous poet and novelist, enjoyed it.
4. What are some of the themes in Frankenstein?
The loneliness of being an outcast of society, the monstrous side of man, the human need for companionship, and the ethics of man’s creating a living being—these are some of the themes Shelley deals with in Frankenstein.
5. In the novel, why did Victor Frankenstein leave his university studies?
Victor left because the university did not offer courses in the creation of life. His professors felt such study would not be acceptable—that men should not attempt to “play God.”
6. What changed the monster into a violent creature in the novel Frankenstein?
The monster became enraged with his fate in life—to be alone all the time and rejected by humans.
7. Who was Frankenstein’s first victim?
The creature murdered Victor’s brother, William.
8. What did the monster want Victor to create for him? Why?
The monster wanted Victor to create a companion and mate for him, so that he would not be so lonely and could live without cursing the man who had created him.
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