Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein- Unveiling the Influences and Comparisons of Her Creepy Character
Who does Mary Shelley compare her character to in “Frankenstein”? This is a question that has intrigued readers for centuries. In her iconic novel, Shelley portrays the creature created by Victor Frankenstein as a complex and misunderstood being, and her comparisons to various characters and historical figures add depth to the creature’s character and the themes of the novel. This article will explore the different comparisons made by Mary Shelley and analyze their significance in the context of “Frankenstein.”
One of the most notable comparisons made by Mary Shelley is to Adam, the first man in the Bible. The creature’s creation and subsequent isolation mirror Adam’s expulsion from Eden. Both characters are created in solitude and are left to fend for themselves in a world that is unfamiliar and unforgiving. This comparison highlights the theme of loneliness and the human need for companionship, as well as the consequences of being cast out from a paradise-like existence.
Another comparison made by Shelley is to the Golem, a mythical creature created by Jewish legend. The Golem is a being made of clay that is brought to life by the recitation of sacred words. The creature in “Frankenstein” is also created from inanimate matter, but instead of being brought to life by magic, it is the result of scientific experimentation. This comparison serves to underscore the novel’s exploration of the moral and ethical implications of playing God, as well as the potential dangers of tampering with the natural order.
Shelley also draws a parallel between the creature and the Minotaur, a mythical creature from Greek mythology with the body of a man and the head of a bull. The Minotaur is a being that is both monstrous and human, much like the creature in “Frankenstein.” This comparison emphasizes the creature’s dual nature, as well as the struggle between the beast within and the human soul. It also serves to highlight the theme of the monster’s inner turmoil and the desire for acceptance and understanding.
Additionally, the creature in “Frankenstein” can be compared to the Romantic poets of the time, particularly Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron. The novel was written during the Romantic era, a period characterized by a fascination with nature, the sublime, and the supernatural. The creature’s creation and the subsequent events in the novel reflect the Romantic preoccupation with the sublime and the irrational. This comparison suggests that the novel is not only a cautionary tale about science and its consequences but also a reflection of the broader cultural and intellectual climate of its time.
In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s comparisons of the creature in “Frankenstein” to various characters and historical figures enrich the novel’s themes and deepen the reader’s understanding of the creature’s character. By drawing parallels to Adam, the Golem, the Minotaur, and the Romantic poets, Shelley explores the complexities of human nature, the consequences of scientific hubris, and the enduring struggle for acceptance and understanding. These comparisons serve as a testament to the enduring relevance and power of “Frankenstein” as a work of literature.
