Analysis of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.

Write an analysis of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.

1. What does this novel tell us about empathy and “the Other”? In other words, how easy is it to
   empathize with those who are different from us? How important is it to empathize with those
   who are different from us? In answering this question, think about the many hierarchies that the
   novel creates, including the shipmates that Walton is not interested in befriending and the
   difference between Elizabeth and the “dark-eyed, hardy little vagrants” with whom she is
   discovered, as well as the creature himself. What interpretations can you draw from the novel’s
   focus on these social distinctions? Do you think that Shelley emphasizes these differences
   sincerely, or might she be attempting to shed light on problematic social hierarchies? How does
   the novel respond to the web of social hierarchy that existed at the time it was written? (Extra
   Credit: respond to Allan Lloyd Smith and/or Warren Montag.)
2. In what ways does Mary Shelley’s text reflect environmental concerns as a result of the
   Industrial Revolution? In what ways does the novel reflect scientific concerns in response to the
   Enlightenment? What role does nature play in the novel, and what are the effects of the many
   detailed descriptions of nature? Why does Shelley highlight nature as a mirror of human
   emotion? What role does science play in the novel? Remember that Victor starts his story with a
   warning against scientific ambition – how does this warning end? (Extra Credit: respond to Kevin
   Hutchings.)
3. What is the effect of literature and writing in the novel? How do books influence the characters?
   In what ways do language and writing affect empathetic connection? What effect do the frame
   tales or shifts in perspective have on the story and on the empathy of the reader with each
   storyteller? What is the role of letters in the novel, including, but not limited to, Walton’s
   letters? How does the monster express himself? How does this affect our ability to empathize
   with him? What is the combined effect of his eloquent words and the gruesome description of
   his physical form? (Extra Credit: respond to Lynn Hunt.)
4. If you want to explore a different topic or respond to a different critical essay, that might work!
   Speak to me to see if your idea will fulfill the requirements of this assignment.

Sample Solution