frankenstein essay topics

109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics

Welcome to the Frankenstein Essay Topics page prepared by our editorial team! Here, you’ll find a selection of top ideas, questions, and titles for any academic paper. We have topics about Frankenstein’s literary analysis, characters, themes, and more.

• 🔬 Literary Analysis
• 🎭 Characters
• 📊 Compare & Contrast
• 🗺️ Navigation

🎓 References

Frankenstein is a famous novel, and students will often have to write papers about it. If you have received such an assignment, this article is for you! When writing a Frankenstein literary analysis essay , there are many areas you can consider, such as characters, themes, and context. Below, we have provided 99 outstanding ideas that you can use for your assignment or to find inspiration. Don’t forget to illustrate your arguments with quotes from text when writing your Frankenstein literary analysis.

🔬 Frankenstein Literary Analysis Essay Topics

• What are the literary devices used to create the image of Victor Frankenstein ?
• What literary devices are used to create the image of the Monster?
• What is the importance of setting in Frankenstein ?
• Romanticism in Frankenstein : the use of poetry in the novel’s narrative
• Who is the narrator of Frankenstein , and why is the narration important?
• Narrative technique in Frankenstein .
• Nature symbolism in Frankenstein .
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein as a tragedy
• How does weather reflect the narrative of Frankenstein ? Give examples.
• What does fire symbolize in Frankenstein ?
• How is the power of nature depicted in Frankenstein ?
• What is the purpose of letters in Frankenstein ?
• The importance of allusions in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein .
• Biblical symbolism in Frankenstein .
• Why is Frankenstein called Modern Prometheus?
• Point of view in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Frankenstein : a deconstructive reading
• Analyze the romantic elements in Frankenstein .
• Is Frankenstein a gothic novel?
• What literary devices are used to create fear in Frankenstein ?
• What is the writing style of Frankenstein ?
• Examine the role of suspense and foreshadowing throughout Frankenstein . Do you think these devices are effective?
• How does foreshadowing differ among the three main narrators of Frankenstein (Walton, Victor, and the Monster)?
• What is the purpose of the ring composition of Frankenstein ?
• How does Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein allude to the myth of Prometheus?
• How is Frankenstein a romantic and horror novel?
• What role do letters from Elizabeth play in Frankenstein ‘s narrative?
• What would the novel be like if it was narrated by only Frankenstein or only the monster ?
• What does the novel gain from having so many levels of narration? Why do you suppose it might have been structured with so many embedded narratives?
• In what ways and for what ends does Mary Shelley utilize the myth of Prometheus in her novel, Frankenstein ?
• Three Separate Narratives within Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein : Weather, Seasons, and Emotional Symbolism

🎭 Frankenstein Essay Topics: Characters

• How are women depicted in Frankenstein ? How does Shelley make them look passive?
• Why isn’t Frankenstein ’s monster given a name?
• Who is the real monster in Frankenstein ?
• Is Frankenstein ’s monster responsible for the characters’ deaths ?
• What did the childhood of Victor Frankenstein look like? What role does it play in the narrative?
• Does the monster’s eloquence and persuasiveness make it easier for the reader to sympathize with him? Why do you think most film versions of the story present the monster as mute or inarticulate?
• Trace the similarities between Victor Frankenstein and the Monster . Consider their respective relationships with nature, desires for family , and any other important parallels you find.
• Do Victor and the Monster become more similar to Frankenstein ‘s plot? How does their relationship with each other develop?
• Victor attributes his tragic fate to his relentless search for knowledge. Do you think that this is the true cause of his suffering?
• Why does Shelley describe all female characters in Frankenstein as self-sacrificing and passive?
• Who is more human, the Monster of Frankenstein ?
• Analyze the motivations of the main characters in Frankenstein .
• Victor and the Monster feature radically different perspectives on the events of Frankenstein . Whose viewpoint do you support?
• Is the Creature’s demand for a female companion a valid request? Examine the pros and cons of Victor’s compliance.
• After watching the she-monster torn to pieces, the Creature vows that Victor will “repent of the injuries (he) inflicts. Is the Creature justified in his feelings? Why or why not?
• What role does Elizabeth play in Frankenstein ?
• What is the motivation behind Victor’s vow to find and destroy his creature? Has he learned any lessons?
• Discuss the humanity of Frankenstein ‘s Monster.
• What role does Justine Moritz play in the novel?
• What is the Monster’s experience of meeting people? How do they react? Why is it so?
• How does the Monster learn to read and speak? What is his motivation?
• What role does Safie play in Frankenstein ? Look at her situation from the feminist perspective. She considers marrying a Christian as the only way to become a freer woman. What does this fact tell us about the society she lives in?
• Why does the Monster kill William Frankenstein?
• Examine the relationship between Victor Frankenstein and his monster. How do they interact and communicate with each other?
• How does the creature of Frankenstein form the archetypal monster/horror character?
• “Victor Frankenstein and the Monster share the same personality: like father, like son”. Defend or attack this statement.
• How does Walton’s narration affect the story? How does it affect your interpretation of characters and events?
• Do you think that the monster has free will? Provide textual examples in support of your claim.

🌻 Frankenstein Essay Topics: Themes

• How is the theme of loneliness depicted in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley?
• Discuss the role of sickness in the novel. Victor often seems to fall ill after traumatic events. Is this a means of escape, and, if so, is it effective?
• In what ways does Frankenstein present science and knowledge as dangerous and destructive ?
• How is the idea of exploration revealed in Frankenstein ?
• Responsibility as a Theme in Frankenstein
• How are the dangers of obsession shown in Frankenstein ?
• What ethical concerns the use of animal and human bodies by Victor Frankenstein might raise?
• Analyze Frankenstein through the prism of feminist theory
• Describe the theme of kindness and compassion in Frankenstein
• Frankenstein : the theme of birth
• To what extent does Frankenstein support Mary Wollstonecraft’s claim that women were treated as inferior to men?
• Homosexuality in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Science is portrayed in a bad light in the novel Frankenstein . The author implies that the direction that civilization moves in is determined by what it understands about power. Analyze this statement in relation to the current society.
• Does Frankenstein present the value of the domestic circle?
• Describe how the theme of ambition is presented in Frankenstein .
• Throughout the novel, Victor Frankenstein states that he had no choice, that he was destined, that it was fate that he created the monster. Were his actions really a matter of fate? Or is he simply using fate as an excuse for his actions?
• Critical analysis of human Nature in Frankenstein , as it Connects to Freudian Psychology
• Scientific inquiry in Frankenstein
• Frankenstein as a feminist novel
• Desire and revenge in Frankenstein and Prometheus
• The theme of knowledge portrayed in Frankenstein

⌛ Frankenstein Essay Topics: Context

• Describe how Mary Shelley’s life experiences influenced the story of Frankenstein
• What is the historical relevance of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley? Find in the text the examples of reactions to the historical movements of the Enlightenment , industrial revolution, and romanticism.
• How are the ideas of Shelley’s parents presented in Frankenstein ?
• How does Frankenstein rely on the ideas, beliefs, and issues presented in other texts?
• How might Frankenstein be read as a commentary on scientific progress?
• Historical Context in Frankenstein
• Frankenstein : the autobiography of Mary Shelley?

📊 Compare & Contrast Frankenstein Essay Questions

• Compare and contrast Frankenstein and The Last Man by Mary Shelley
• Science & Nature in Frankenstein & Blade Runner
• How is the theme of revenge shown in Frankenstein and Hamlet ?
• Frankenstein : compare the novel with the movie of 1937
• Compare Frankenstein and The Picture of Dorian Gray
• On First Looking into Chapman’s Homer vs. Frankenstein : compare & contrast
• Compare Frankenstein and Macbeth
• Make a comparison of The Handmaid’s Tale and Frankenstein
• Which Frankenstein movie is most like the book?
• Macbeth & Frankenstein : compare & contrast
• Discuss the differences and similarities between Victor Frankenstein and Beowulf
• Compare and contrast Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Robert Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde .
• How has Frankenweenie , a film by Tim Burton, transformed Frankenstein by Mary Shelley to appeal to modern audiences?
• Frankenstein vs. Great Expectations : compare & contrast
• From superhuman to posthuman: The gothic technological imaginary in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Octavia Butler’s Xenogenesis
• Science, gender and otherness in Shelley’s Frankenstein and Kenneth Branagh’s film adaptation
• Compare and contrast the theme of appearances in Frankenstein to the same theme in other literary works.
• Monstrous characters in Frankenstein and Hedda Gabler
• Pity and revenge in Frankenstein and The Cry of the Children
• Technology’s effect on human relationships: comparing Station Eleven and Frankenstein
• Gender roles in Frankenstein and Fantomina
• Choosing a Topic: Purdue OWL
• Selecting a Topic: UM-Flint
• Introduction to Research: Cornell University
• Find a Topic Idea: Questia
• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

Study Guide Menu

• Plot Summary
• Summary & Analysis
• Literary Devices & Symbols
• Essay Samples
• Essay Topics
• Questions & Answers
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, May 24). 109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics. https://ivypanda.com/lit/study-guide-on-frankenstein/outstanding-essay-topics/

"109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics." IvyPanda , 24 May 2024, ivypanda.com/lit/study-guide-on-frankenstein/outstanding-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics'. 24 May.

IvyPanda . 2024. "109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics." May 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/lit/study-guide-on-frankenstein/outstanding-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics." May 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/lit/study-guide-on-frankenstein/outstanding-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "109 Outstanding Frankenstein Essay Topics." May 24, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/lit/study-guide-on-frankenstein/outstanding-essay-topics/.

Frankenstein

88 pages • 2 hours read

Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Letters 1-4

Chapters 1-4

Chapters 5-8

Chapters 9-12

Chapters 13-16

Chapters 17-20

Chapters 21-24

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Further Reading & Resources

Discussion Questions

How does the creature’s revenge against Frankenstein ultimately lead to Frankenstein’s becoming like the creature?

Discuss the role of nature in the novel. What causes alienation from nature, and what is the result? How does one reconnect with nature? How does the grandeur of nature simultaneously comfort and alienate one further?

What is the role of women in the novel? Consider Elizabeth, Justine, Safie, Agatha, and even Robert’s sister Margaret. How does their passivity demonstrate 19th-century ideals for women?

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now

Related Titles

By Mary Shelley

The Last Man

Mary Shelley

Featured Collections

Audio Study Guides

View Collection

British Literature

#CommonReads 2020

Nature Versus Nurture

Romanticism / Romantic Period

Safety & Danger

Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Books — Frankenstein

Essays on Frankenstein

Hook examples for "frankenstein" essays, monster or victim hook.

Is Frankenstein's creature truly a monstrous villain, or is he a victim of society's rejection and cruelty? Dive into the moral ambiguity of this iconic character and explore the depths of his humanity.

Mary Shelley's Inspiration Hook

Discover the intriguing story behind the creation of "Frankenstein." Explore Mary Shelley's life, her influences, and how this timeless novel emerged from the challenges and tragedies she faced.

Scientific Ambition Hook

Victor Frankenstein's relentless pursuit of scientific discovery leads to catastrophic consequences. Analyze the theme of scientific ambition and its ethical implications in the novel.

The Promethean Myth Hook

Frankenstein is often compared to the myth of Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods. Delve into how the novel explores themes of creation, rebellion, and the consequences of playing god.

The Pursuit of Knowledge Hook

Examine the characters' quests for knowledge in "Frankenstein" and how their thirst for understanding the unknown shapes their destinies. Consider the fine line between discovery and obsession.

Ethical Dilemmas Hook

"Frankenstein" raises profound ethical questions about the responsibilities of creators, the treatment of the other, and the consequences of one's actions. Explore these dilemmas and their relevance today.

Monstrosity of Society Hook

Discuss how "Frankenstein" critiques societal norms and prejudices. Analyze how the creature's rejection by society shapes his behavior and leads to his transformation into a true monster.

Gothic Elements Hook

Explore the Gothic elements in Mary Shelley's novel, from eerie settings to themes of isolation and horror. Consider how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and meaning of the story.

Modern Scientific Ethics Hook

Draw parallels between the novel's ethical dilemmas and contemporary debates on scientific advancements, cloning, and genetic engineering. Reflect on how "Frankenstein" remains relevant in today's world.

Victim of Nature in Frankenstein

The pursuit of knowledge in mary shelley’s frankenstein, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Frankenstein Loneliness Quotes

The consequences of isolation and alienation: analysis of frankenstein by shelley, nature of revenge in the novel the frankenstein, the conflict between the creator and his creation in frankenstein, let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Good and Bad Sides of Frankenstein

Mary shelley’s frankenstein; self discovery, the reasons why the monster deserves sympathy in frankenstein, a novel by mary shelley, power reversal: the marxist view of frankenstein, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

Social Norms in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

How forbidden topics are transferred as gothic in frankenstein, the sublime and science in frankenstein by mary shelley, dr. jekyll and victor frankenstein: creating the monstrocities, victor frankenstein’s selfishness as the reason for his downfall, science, madness, and violence in mary shelley’s frankenstein, the lack of feminism in mary shelley’s frankenstein, analysis of major themes in frankenstein by marry shelley, review of mary shelly's "frankenstein", the theme of responsibility in frankenstein by mary shelley, exploring the sublime: burke and frankenstein’s monster, analysis of feminism in frankenstein by mary shelley, frankenstein's problem - technologies out of control and human responsibility, the theme of revenge in frankenstein by mary shelley , human nature and ambitions in frankenstein, the analysis of frankenstein, the women's role in frankenstein, the use of language to influence the reader in frankenstein and hamlet, a monster within frankenstein, analyzing hidden messages in frankenstein.

1818, Mary Shelley

Novel; Gothic Fiction, Horror Fiction, Science Fiction, Romance Novel, Soft Science Fiction

Victor Frankenstein, the monster, Robert Walton, Alphonse Frankenstein, Elizabeth Lavenza, Henry Clerval, William Frankenstein, Justine Moritz, Caroline Beaufort, Beaufort, Peasants, M. Waldman, M. Krempe, Mr. Kirwin

Shelley has been influenced by her parents, especially her father's "Enquiry Concerning Political Justice" and "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman". It also included ideas of galvanism, which have been extremely popular during the time the novel has been written.

Light and darkness, good and evil, fire, isolation, anger, unorthodox approach.

It has been the main theme of reanimating the dead, which became the pioneering theme in literary works, yet the most important and symbolic importance of this novel is the interaction between the scientist Victor Frankenstein and the nameless creature that he has brought to life. It can be summed up with the words of the monster: "I was benevolent and good, misery made me a fiend" (Shelley 90). It speaks of Victor's creating the being, yet it was the society that has created the monster.

The novel tells a story of a gifted scientist called Victor Frankenstein who manages to bring life to his own creation. The challenge is that his creation is not exactly what he has imagined. As a monster creature, he is rejected by his creator and mankind in general. The main idea is to see and explore regarding who the true monster is.

Mary Shelley was only 18 years old when she started Frankenstein . She was 20 years old when the book was published. The Frankenstein has been written in the shadow of a tragedy as Shelley has lost her newborn daughter. The most common misconception is that Frankenstein is the name of the monster, which has already become symbolic all over the world. In truth, the monster has no name at all. Frankenstein word comes from the name of the German castle not far from the Rhine River, literally meaning "Stone of the Franks''. It was the place where an odd alchemist called Konrad Dippel has tried to create an elixir of immortality. It was thought that it was Mary's father Percy Shelley who wrote the book since he also wrote the preface. The book has not been accepted by the critics and was called "absurd" and "disgusting" The full name of the book is Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus.

“Nothing is so painful to the human mind as a great and sudden change.” “Life, although it may only be an accumulation of anguish, is dear to me, and I will defend it.” “I do know that for the sympathy of one living being, I would make peace with all. I have love in me the likes of which you can scarcely imagine and rage the likes of which you would not believe. If I cannot satisfy the one, I will indulge the other.” “Even broken in spirit as he is, no one can feel more deeply than he does the beauties of nature. The starry sky, the sea, and every sight afforded by these wonderful regions, seems still to have the power of elevating his soul from earth. Such a man has a double existence: he may suffer misery, and be overwhelmed by disappointments; yet, when he has retired into himself, he will be like a celestial spirit that has a halo around him, within whose circle no grief or folly ventures.” “How mutable are our feelings, and how strange is that clinging love we have of life even in the excess of misery!”

Although the story has been written a long time ago, it is still clear for contemporary readers because it can be related to scientific advancements, human relations, and AI. In a certain sense, it is the beginning of scientific fiction and the subject of "playing God". Mary Shelley's book is a warning to humanity and the scientists about responsibility with the main message being that science and technology can go way too far beyond the limitations. It proves that human beings must believe in the sanctity of our own being.

This book represents an essay topic for numerous academic fields from Data Science to Nursing and Education. Since it deals with ethics, responsibility, and being conscious about one's creations, it acts as the symbolic reflection of being the monster that we fear. The life of Victor Frankenstein is an example of scientists through decades, different countries and fields. It is a great warning for us all that we should not go too far.

1. Shelley, M., & Bolton, G. (2018). frankenstein. In Medicine and Literature (pp. 35-52). CRC Press. (https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781315375670-4/frankenstein-mary-shelley-gillie-bolton) 2. Gigante, D. (2000). Facing the Ugly: The Case of" Frankenstein". Elh, 67(2), 565-587. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/30031925) 3. Sherwin, P. (1981). Frankenstein: Creation as catastrophe. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/pmla/article/abs/frankenstein-creation-as-catastrophe/40AFBF23476041ECF8A55827303A3D43 PMLA, 96(5), 883-903. 4. Heffernan, J. A. (1997). Looking at the monster:" Frankenstein" and film. Critical Inquiry, 24(1), 133-158. (https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1086/448869?journalCode=ci) 5. Guzman, A. (2013). International organizations and the Frankenstein problem. European Journal of International Law, 24(4), 999-1025. (https://academic.oup.com/ejil/article/24/4/999/606374) 6. Kunich, J. C. (2000). Mother Frankenstein, Doctor Nature, and the Environmental Law of Genetic Engineering. S. cal. L. rev., 74, 807. (https://heinonline.org/HOL/LandingPage?handle=hein.journals/scal74&div=42&id=&page=) 7. Ginn, S. R. (2013). Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: Exploring neuroscience, nature, and nurture in the novel and the films. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780444632876000099 Progress in Brain Research, 204, 169-190. 8. Holmes, R. (2016). Science fiction: The science that fed Frankenstein. https://www.nature.com/articles/535490a 9. Barns, I. (1990). Monstrous nature or technology?: Cinematic resolutions of the ‘Frankenstein Problem’. Science as Culture, 1(9), 7-48. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09505439009526278?journalCode=csac20) 10. Brooks, P. (1978). Godlike Science/Unhallowed Arts: Language and Monstrosity in Frankenstein. New Literary History, 9(3), 591-605. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/468457)

Relevant topics

• A Rose For Emily
• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Lord of The Flies
• The Great Gatsby
• The Alchemist
• Of Mice and Men
• Thank You Ma Am
• Into The Wild
• Their Eyes Were Watching God

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

142 Frankenstein Essay Topics

🏆 best frankenstein essay topics, ✍️ frankenstein essay topics for college, 👍 good frankenstein research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting frankenstein research paper topics, 💡 simple frankenstein essay titles, ❓ frankenstein essay questions, 📖 inspiring frankenstein thesis ideas.

• Frankenstein as a Gothic Novel and an Example of Romanticism
• Social Disapproval in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
• The Modern Prometheus: Analysis of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Importance of Relationships and Family in Frankenstein
• Companionship in “Frankenstein”: The Theme of Human Connection
• Isolation and Loneliness in Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
• Shelley’s Frankenstein as “The Modern Prometheus”
• The Self-Identity Problem in Frankenstein Frankenstein by Mary Shelley evokes mixed feelings since it has an ethical conflict in the plot foundation. The Creature was designed as experiment and was perceived as a disaster.
• Responsibility in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” In Mary Shelley’s pen, a mad scientist’s quest for creation has a reckoning, where the shadows of responsibility loom large and the boundaries of life and death are shattered.
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Bioethics Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein provides an explicit example of how playing God can be dangerous. Victor should not have created the monster, as he had no viable reason and right to do so
• Frankenstein: A Child in the Form of the Monster Viewing the creature Frankenstein as a child will reveal that he is a victim rather than a monster because he needed assistance to meet social norms.
• “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley and “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley and “Lord of the flies” by William Golding share the research on how the environment influences people and their inner nature.
• Themes of Knowledge and Family in Shelley’s Frankenstein This paper examines the themes of knowledge and family comprehensively to illustrate how Shelley’s narrative of Frankenstein relates to the nineteenth century.
• Themes in “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley Frankenstein is one of the greatest books of the nineteenth century. Shelley explores many topics in her work that reflect social and philosophical aspects.
• Injustice in Shelley’s Frankenstein and Milton’s Paradise Lost The monster created by Mary Shelley in Frankenstein and the character of Satan in Milton’s Paradise Lost are obsessed with the idea of injustice and revenge.
• Frankenstein vs. Monster: Characters Comparison This paper claims that Frankenstein’s unwillingness to accept responsibility for the fate of his creation led to his excruciating psychological suffering.
• Prejudice and Lost Innocence in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” raises quite a number of disturbing themes that still hold relevance for modern society.
• Romeo, Juliet, Ishmael Beah, and Victor Frankenstein This article presents the script for a play dedicated to the adventures of Romeo, Juliet, Ishmael Beah, and Victor Frankenstein.
• Societal Monsters in Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” A special consideration requires different interpretations of social fear in Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, Chinua Achebe’s literary masterpiece Things Fall Apart.
• Frankenstein vs. Paradise Lost The main similarity between Adam and Frankenstein’s monster is that they both were created and both disappointed their creators.
• Great Fictional Icons in the Nineteenth Century: Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus” Frankenstein is rendered in opulent Gothic prose. It delves into the intricacies of the human mind and reflects on the ambitions of man, his purpose and his relation to God.
• Shelley’s “Frankenstein”: Analysis of Frankenstein’s Character The story about Frankenstein and his monster raises many questions. People cannot decide what is more important in making a person, nature or nurture.
• Themes Raised in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley In Frankenstein, Shelly addresses numerous themes such as prejudice, revenge, society and isolation, nature, and death, to name just a few.
• Communication with the Audience in Mary Shelly’s “Frankenstein” Mary Shelly is trying to convey the information that while technology and science have an essential part in human life, the two can only go as far.
• Feminist Connotations in Shelley’s “Frankenstein” Mary Shelley has cleverly and effectively integrated feminist connotations within the story of “Frankenstein”.
• The Science Debate: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus, appeared at a time when the science fiction genre was only at the initial stage of its emergence and development.
• Mary Shelley’s Novel Frankenstein Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein can be used for discussing the limitations of human knowledge, the inability of a person to foresee the long-term effects of one’s actions
• Chapters 1-4 of “Frankenstein” and Suggestion of Future Events “Frankenstein” is the dramatic story of a scientist whose enthusiasm for science led to terrible consequences and personal misfortune.
• Frankenstein Mythology and Paleontology: Comparison The thirst for knowledge is universal for many scientific fields, but the novel “Frankenstein” by Shelley illustrates how it may carry one astray.
• “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley In Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, the monster is the creation of Victor Frankenstein that was assembled from old body parts and unknown chemicals.
• Analyzing “Frankenstein” Written by Mary Shelly Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelly, is among the most well-known gothic novels, combining scientific and fantastic elements.
• Who Is the Monster, or Who Are the Monsters, in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley? Primary healthcare is meeting the needs of the population (each person, family, and community) by providing medical services at the first contact with the health system.
• Concept of the Monster in Frankenstein The paper discusses that the Monster in Frankenstein can be described as a metaphor for the relationship between humans and gods.
• The Novel “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley The Novel “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley raises a number of questions, each defined by a difficult choice to take into consideration.
• The Book “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley Mary Shelley’s novel about Frankenstein and his Creature reveals many human vices and cruelty. There is also a place in the story for love and remorse.
• Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley was first published in 1818. John Wilson Croker’s review, published right after the novel was released, was negative.
• “Frankenstein” Story Retold by Anna Meriano “Frankenstein” by Anna Meriano, is a fancy, captivating retelling of the worldwide known legend, the story of a creature seeking love that began in the writings of Mary Shelly.
• Shelley’s Frankenstein: The Monster’s Description The purpose of this paper is to discuss the main characteristics of the image of the monster and understand what the author put into this image.
• The Monsters We Create: Analyzing Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” “Frankenstein” addresses some of the crucial issues of scientific exploration and the juxtaposition of nature and human nature, as well as being a metaphor for ostracism.
• Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley’s novel Frankenstein or The Modern Prometheus addresses conventional romantic themes like isolation and beauty of nature.
• Analiz work “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein” Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a world-famous novel about an ambitious scientist, Victor Frankenstein, who finds out the secret of life and creates a monstrous creature from old body parts.
• English Literature: Frankenstein by Shelley Victor Frankenstein grew up in a wealthy Swiss family. As a young man, he became interested in science and especially the theory of what gives and takes life from human beings.
• The Modern Prometheus: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley Almost two centuries have passed since the first publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Today, the monster created by Victor Frankenstein is a well-recognized character.
• Science in Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Condorcet’s Works This paper compares Condorcet’s opinion on human happiness and the destruction of prejudice in science with Shelley’s perspective on the role of science in human life.
• Frankenstein and His Use of Science
• Frankenstein: Abandonment, Loneliness, and Rejection
• Frankenstein and Human Nature
• The Debate Between Fate and Free Will in Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and King Lear: A Look Into Religion, Politics, and Literature
• Frankenstein and Male Reproduction
• Emotion Over Reason: Frankenstein and the Great Gatsby
• Frankenstein and Genetic Modification
• Frankenstein and the Human Mind
• Creature and Victor Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and Natural Order
• Doctor Frankenstein’s International Organization
• Feminine Nature and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein: Embryonic Stem Cell and Curiosity
• The Creative Symbolism Woven Into Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and the Romantic Era
• Frankenstein and His Creation Gone Wrong: Who Is the Real Victim Anyway
• Frankenstein: Aesthetics and Memory Box
• Discovering the True Nature of Frankenstein
• Frankenstein Less Human Than His Creation
• Frankenstein and Percy Shelley’s Moral Science
• Frankenstein and Unforeseen Consequence
• Family Values and Frankenstein
• Frankenstein: Cultural Criticism Critique
• Frankenstein and Secret Waiting
• Biblical Adam and the Creature in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and the Modern Pandora
• Frankenstein and His Creature Are the Same People
• Euthanasia and Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and the Industrial Revolution
• Frankenstein and Gothic Literature
• Destiny and Frankenstein
• Comparing Candide and Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and Societal Norms
• Birth Traumas and Frankenstein
• Frankenstein Challenging Extreme Romantic and Enlightenment
• Comparing Frankenstein, Aylmer, and Dr. Phillips
• Existence Issues Surrounding Frankenstein’s Monster
• Family Relations and Alienation in Frankenstein
• Symbolism and Autobiographical Elements in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and Science
• The Characters, Conflict, and Plot in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Frankenstein and His Monster
• Frankenstein Explain How the Character of the Monster Develops
• Dangerous Knowledge Was All Throughout the Novel Frankenstein
• Frankenstein and the Effects of Isolation
• Frankenstein: Lust, Love, and Sin
• Exploring the Many Themes in the Novel Frankenstein
• Byronic Hero: Manfred and Frankenstein
• Sympathy for the Monster in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Faust and Victor Frankenstein: Unconcerned With Reality
• Does Frankenstein Deserve His Fate?
• Frankenstein and Rur: Depiction of Human Behavior
• Frankenstein and Human Cloning
• Dr. Victor Frankenstein and the Artificial Life
• Frankenstein and the Role of Parents in the Process of Childs Development
• Frankenstein and Blade Runner: Disruption and Identity
• Ecocriticism and Frankenstein
• Frankenstein Being More Human Than Monster
• Frankenstein and Blade Runner: Dangerous Implications of Scientific and Technological Development
• What Is the Specter of Orality in “Frankenstein”?
• What Are the Approaches to Teaching Shelley’s “Frankenstein”?
• What Is the Dilemma of Creator and Creation in “Frankenstein”?
• What Is the Narrative Structure and Reader Skepticism in “Frankenstein”?
• How Godlike Science and Unhallowed Arts Are Depicted in “Frankenstein”?
• How the Character of the Monster Develops in “Frankenstein”?
• What Is the Significance of the Birthing Scene in “Frankenstein”?
• Which Story Is More Terrifying: “Dracula” or “Frankenstein”?
• How Does Isolation Play a Big Role in the Novel “Frankenstein”?
• How Does Mary Shelley Convey Horror to the Reader in “Frankenstein”?
• What Is the Main Conflict in Frankenstein?
• How Does Mary Shelley Explore Suffering in “Frankenstein”?
• How Does the Language in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” Reflect Its Gothic Genre?
• How Forbidden Topics Are Transferred as Gothic in “Frankenstein”?
• What Are the Female Roles and Responsibilities in “Frankenstein”?
• What Does Light and Fire Represent in “Frankenstein”?
• What Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” Suggests About Parenting?
• Who Was Mary Shelley and What Inspired “Frankenstein”?
• Why Does “Frankenstein” Begin and End With Walton’s Letters
• What Is the Historical Background of “Frankenstein”?
• What Are the Major Themes in “Frankenstein”?
• What Philosophers Influenced “Frankenstein” and How?
• How Does “Frankenstein” Relate to the Real World?
• What Is the Philosophy of “Frankenstein”?
• How Does “Frankenstein” Represent the Enlightenment?
• What Is the Main Idea of the Introduction of “Frankenstein”?
• What Is the Last Line of “Frankenstein” and What Does It Mean?
• The Sympathetic Monster Trope Discuss the trope of the sympathetic monster and its impact on readers’ perceptions of the creature.
• Critical Analysis of Victor Frankenstein’s God Complex Examining how Victor Frankenstein’s scientific ambitions intersect with notions of playing God and the ethical implications of his actions in the context of romanticism.
• Mary Shelley’s Feminist Vision Analyzing how Mary Shelley’s personal experiences and beliefs are reflected in the novel’s themes, particularly those related to women’s roles and autonomy.
• Frankenstein in Popular Culture Revealing the enduring influence of “Frankenstein” on literature, film, and other forms of media, and its portrayal in various adaptations.
• The Gothic and Romantic Elements Discussing the incorporation of gothic and romantic literary elements in “Frankenstein” and their contribution to its overall atmosphere.
• Religious and Moral Parallels Exploring the novel’s intersections with spiritual and moral themes, including the creation narrative and the concept of playing God.
• Ethics of Scientific Discovery Investigating the ethical responsibilities of scientists in pursuit of knowledge, drawing parallels to contemporary discussions on scientific ethics.
• Narrative Structure and Multiple Perspectives Assessing the use of multiple narrative perspectives and their impact on understanding the story’s themes and characters.
• Eco-Critical Readings of “Frankenstein” Exploring environmental and ecological themes in the novel and their relevance to contemporary eco-critical discussions.
• Enlightenment Ideas and Romantic Critique Analyzing how “Frankenstein” engages with Enlightenment ideals of progress and reason and the romantic critique of these ideals.

Cite this post

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2022, March 1). 142 Frankenstein Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/frankenstein-essay-topics/

"142 Frankenstein Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 1 Mar. 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/frankenstein-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '142 Frankenstein Essay Topics'. 1 March.

1. StudyCorgi . "142 Frankenstein Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/frankenstein-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "142 Frankenstein Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/frankenstein-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "142 Frankenstein Essay Topics." March 1, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/frankenstein-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Frankenstein were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on December 28, 2023 .

Frankenstein

Mary shelley, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

Welcome to the LitCharts study guide on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein . Created by the original team behind SparkNotes, LitCharts are the world's best literature guides.

Frankenstein: Introduction

Frankenstein: plot summary, frankenstein: detailed summary & analysis, frankenstein: themes, frankenstein: quotes, frankenstein: characters, frankenstein: symbols, frankenstein: literary devices, frankenstein: quizzes, frankenstein: theme wheel, brief biography of mary shelley.

Historical Context of Frankenstein

Other books related to frankenstein.

• Full Title: Frankenstein, or, The Modern Prometheus
• When Published: 1818
• Literary Period: Switzerland and London, England: 1816–1817
• Genre: Gothic novel
• Setting: Switzerland, France, England, Scotland, and the North Pole in the 18th century
• Climax: The Monster's murder of Elizabeth Lavenza on her wedding night to Victor
• Antagonist: The Monster
• Point of View: Frankenstein is told through a few layers of first person narratives. Walton is the primary narrator, who then recounts Victor's first-person narrative. In addition, Victor's narrative contains the monster's first person story as well as letters from other characters.

Extra Credit for Frankenstein

A ghost story. On a stormy night in June of 1816, Mary Shelley, her husband, and a few other companions, including the Romantic poet Lord Byron, decided to try to write their own ghost stories, but Shelley couldn't come up with any ideas. A few nights later, she had a dream in which she envisioned "the pale student of unhallowed arts" kneeling beside his creation—the monster. She began writing the story that became Frankenstein the next morning.

The Tale of Two Frankensteins. Shelley published the first edition of Frankenstein anonymously, perhaps due to her concern that such a grim and violent tale would not be well received by her audience if they knew her gender. She revised the novel and published it under her real name in 1831. Some key differences exist between the editions, namely that in the first edition, Elizabeth is Alphonse's niece and, therefore, Victor's cousin. (In the 1831 edition, the more popular version and the one used in this Outline, the Frankensteins adopt Elizabeth from another family).

Frankenstein: Essay Topics & Samples

Choosing such a masterpiece to write about is a wise choice. Mary Shelley wasn’t even going to create this novel, so it is fair enough to doubt whether there is anything to analyze at all.

However, there are so many ideas for essay topics about Frankenstein ! The most prominent questions relate to moral values, gender inequality, power, and isolation.

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts is here to help you if you don’t know what to write about or have an abundance of choices. Check out the following list of 10 Frankenstein essay prompts that might inspire you to create an ideal paper.

• 💡 Essay Topics
• ✒️ Essay Samples

💡 Frankenstein: Essay Topics

• Who is the actual Monster in Frankenstein ? When referring to Mary Shelley’s work, some people mistakenly think that Frankenstein is the name of the Monster. However, it can give some food for thought. Isn’t Victor the real creature of evil in this story ? The essay on who the real Monster in Frankenstein might cause a debate!
• The role of women in Frankenstein . You may write an essay about feminism in Frankenstein by looking at the female characters’ role in the book. You might have noticed that women are described as strong individuals. They can endure any challenge and overcome significant losses in their lives.
• Consider an essay on romanticism in Frankenstein . Even in such a dark novel, romantic motifs are hiding between death scenes. Mary Shelly refers to poetry quite a lot in the book. Your task would be to trace this connection and analyze the influence of romanticism on the story.
• Frankenstein as a warning about the dark sides of science. In this Frankenstein analysis essay, you should focus on science’s power and how it can be destructive. Nowadays, scientists are eager to achieve the same aim to create life. However, is it safe to play Gods this way? What may be the consequences?
• Victor Frankenstein : antagonist or protagonist? At first, the reader would assume that the Monster represents all the evil in this world. Later, however, he seems to be only a mere victim. Write this essay about Victor Frankenstein’s character analysis. Is he a real villain after what he’s done?
• The theme of loneliness in Frankenstein . It seems like Victor simply can’t accept his responsibility for the Monster’s loneliness. They both become isolated by one means or another. Compliment your writing with strong arguments to prove your point. Don’t forget that using quotes is a great strategy that would be extremely useful in this Frankenstein essay.
• What are the fears of Mary Shelley hiding in Frankenstein ? Analyze the novel thoroughly to find its hidden meaning. There are themes of life and death, as well as the speeded up technological development. Some of them are the fears of the authors that may be relevant up to nowadays.
• Frankenstein : human ambition vs. nature. After reading the book, the reader finds Victor guilty of going against nature. But isn’t it what humans have been doing for centuries now? Where is the line? Have we crossed it yet? In this Frankenstein essay example, you are invited to look at the novel as a warning.
• Mary Shelley’s Monster: why do we tend to sympathize with him? In his desire for freedom from loneliness, the Monster tends to complain a lot. However, we don’t perceive his words as whining. We pity him as an abandoned creature destined to suffer. What makes it so easy to sympathize with him?
• The theme of sickness in Frankenstein . Most of the main characters in the novel get unwell. The worst case is Victor’s recurring sickness. Admittedly, it is the result of the enormous amounts of stress he faces. What is the role of this element, though? Is he trying to escape the problems this way? Discuss these questions in your Frankenstein essay.

✒️ Frankenstein: Essay Samples

Below you’ll find a collection of Frankenstein essay examples. Use them for inspiration!

• Human Companionship in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
• The Science Debate: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
• The Modern Prometheus: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Injustice in Shelley’s Frankenstein and Milton’s Paradise Lost
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: Key Themes
• The Family Relationship in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• “Young Frankenstein” by Mel Brooks
• The Modern Prometheus: Analysis of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist, creates a human-like creature in the course of a scientific experiment. But the beast murders his family and runs away. Science, religion, moral values, and persistence: which qualities make up a real human being? This Frankenstein Study Guide answers all your questions about the novel....

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains all you need to know about the Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein summary: a plot infographic of the book and a detailed description of the novel’s chapters. ❗ Frankenstein: Plot Summary Mary Shelley’s most famous novel is Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. It tells the tragic...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains the description of Frankenstein’s characters: Victor Frankenstein character traits, the Monster, Robert Walton, Henry Clerval, and others. In the first section, you’ll find a Frankenstein character map. 🗺️ Frankenstein: Character Map Below you’ll find a character map of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. 👨‍🔬 Victor...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts provides an explanation of the themes of Frankenstein. The core issues represented in Mary Shelley’s book are: dangerous knowledge, nature, isolation, monstrosity, and revenge. Keep reading to learn more about the theme of Frankenstein for your class or essay! 🔑 What Are the Major Themes...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts explains the symbolism in Frankenstein. The key symbols used by Shelley are fire and light. 🔥 Fire in Frankenstein Let’s start with the fact that the novel’s full title is Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. It is not a coincidence. We can draw a parallel...

At some point in your studying, you might be asked to produce “The Yellow Wallpaper” analysis essay. Well, if you’re reading this, you have already received this task! Let’s start by choosing a suitable topic to write about. This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains “The Yellow Wallpaper” essay topics, “The...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains all the information about The Yellow Wallpaper’s characters: the narrator, John, Mary, and Jennie. At the end of the article, you’ll learn who Jane is and how she’s related to The Yellow Wallpaper’s main character. 🗺️ The Yellow Wallpaper: Character Map Below you’ll find...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts provides a wide-ranging and diverse explanation of The Yellow Wallpaper’s themes. The core issues represented in Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s short story are gender roles, mental illness, and freedom. Although the writer speaks about her own time, these themes are just as relevant today, if not...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains a comprehensive analysis of literary devices in “The Yellow Wallpaper”: color symbolism, personification, point of view used by Gilman, foreshadowing, and an explanation of the ending’s meaning. 🌈 The Yellow Wallpaper: Symbolism How unfortunate is it that a woman has a mental breakdown just...

This article by Custom-Writing.org experts contains all you need to know about the events in “The Yellow Wallpaper”: a short summary, a plot infographic, and a detailed description of the story’s entries. In the first section, you’ll find a synopsis of what happened in “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins...

The Metamorphosis is one of Kafka’s best-known books. It is also one of the most intricate literary pieces in world literature. This is why coming up with an excellent The Metamorphosis essay topic can be challenging. The following list can help you to get started. See if any of these...

Since its publication in 1915, Kafka’s The Metamorphosis puzzled readers and critics all over the world. The story centers around Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a gigantic insect. The situation is both surreal and unusual. However, the writer proceeds with the story in a realistic manner. Nevertheless, there is a lot...

Frankenstein

By mary shelley, frankenstein essay questions.

Discuss similarities between Frankenstein's monster and the text of the novel as a whole.

Both the monster and the text of the novel are objects that have been created by salvaging older materials. In the case of the monster, Frankenstein built his body out of dead body parts; he also learned how to think, read, and speak from old literary texts. Similarly, the overall text is held together by references and allusions to various poems and literary works. As such, we see that both objects are something new that have been synthesized from a collection of old components.

How might the novel be read as a commentary on scientific progress?

Frankenstein, a young scientist filled with ambition, becomes obsessed with the possibility to create life -- something that science has yet to accomplish. Ultimately, he is able to do so; through this act, he achieves what we would typically conceive of as 'scientific progress', because he has expanded the scope of what science allows humanity to do. However, this act of 'progress' has almost entirely negative consequences: the monster subsumes the entirety of Frankenstein's life, murders innocents, and achieves no perceptible good for society. One might say, therefore, that the novel reflects a thesis that not all potential scientific advancements are progressive of necessity.

What relation does the novel's alternate title, The Modern Prometheus, bear to the story?

Frankenstein is a Promethean analogue: just as Prometheus stole fire from the gods, so too did Frankenstein 'steal' from the domain of nature by learning the secret to create life by himself. Just as the gods for this crime punished Prometheus, Frankenstein receives nothing but misery from his creation, and ultimately dies in an attempt to destroy what he made. In this way, Shelley's novel really is a modern retelling of the Prometheus myth.

What does the novel gain from having so many levels of narration? Why do you suppose it might have been structured with so many embedded narratives?

One noteworthy aspect that this structure affords the novel is that it adds to the parallelism between the monster and overall text. The novel is a patchwork of various perspectives and testimony, be they various narrators or the voices conveyed through various letters. This makes the overall narrative a dubious patchwork of the experiences of different people, similarly to the way in which the monster's body is literally composed of parts of many different deceased people.

This structure also creates a deep sense of irony within the text. It is a text overtly concerned with scientific standards of proof; however, the multiple narrators and secondhand information directly undercut the degree to which the reader has grounds to believe the narrative. Like the moral sphere of the narrative's events, this is a puzzle that the novel compels the reader to resolve.

Do you think that the monster has free will? Provide textual examples in support of your claim.

[Multiple answers can be argued. This is merely one example.]

Assuming the truth of Frankenstein's testimony, the monster does not have free will. Frankenstein says that "the stages of the discovery [with respect to learning how to give life to inanimate tissue] were distinct and probable," which implies that there was explicit scientific grounding for every aspect of the creation process (Volume I, Chapter 4). If we take this claim seriously, then we can plausibly infer that the underlying mechanisms of the monster's brain and body were entirely designed by Frankenstein -- whether or not Frankenstein was consciously aware of the ramifications of his design. With regards to the creatures mind, we know that the majority of his sentiments and schemas of thought were coopted from the three books by which he learned how to read -- Paradise Lost, Plutarch's Lives, and The Sorrows of Werter . We therefore have plausible grounds to claim that external forces ultimately determine all aspects of the monster’s behavior.

Frankenstein Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Frankenstein is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

What is the meaning of dissoluble as it is used in paragraph 3 of the passage?

dissolved, disconnected, broken.... ended

“I expected this reception,” said the dæmon. “All men hate the wretched; how, then, must I be hated, who am miserable beyond all living things! Yet you, my creator, detest and spurn me, thy creature, to...

What decisions and discoveries go into Frankenstein’s creation? What does he learn first, and which parts of the process take longer?

There is so much in your questions. This is only a short answer space. Victor Frankenstein studies biology and metaphysics first. Victor dreams of creating a new species: to renew life.

Explain about the gigantic figure in Frankenstein?

Are you referring to the creature? What specifically do you need to know?

Study Guide for Frankenstein

Frankenstein study guide contains a biography of Mary Shelley, literature essays, a complete e-text, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Frankenstein
• Frankenstein Summary
• Frankenstein Video
• Character List

Essays for Frankenstein

Frankenstein essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.

• Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Frankenstein
• Egotism, Personal Glory, and the Pursuit for Immortality
• Frankenstein and the Essence Of the Romantic Quest
• Like Father Like Son: Imitation and Creation
• Frankenstein's Discovery

Lesson Plan for Frankenstein

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to Frankenstein
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• Frankenstein Bibliography

E-Text of Frankenstein

Frankenstein e-text contains the full text of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.

• Letters 1-4
• Chapters 1-4
• Chapters 5-8
• Chapters 9-12
• Chapters 13-16

Wikipedia Entries for Frankenstein

• Introduction
• Author's background
• Literary influences
• Composition

Frankenstein - Free Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Frankenstein is a novel by Mary Shelley, often heralded as one of the first pieces of science fiction, exploring themes of creation, ambition, and the moral implications of scientific advancement. Essays on “Frankenstein” could delve into these themes, the character analysis of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature, and the novel’s enduring legacy in literature and popular culture. Moreover, discussions might extend to the novel’s influence on the genre of science fiction and horror. A substantial compilation of free essay instances related to Frankenstein you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Novel “Frankenstein” : Roles of Gender

Throughout reading the novel Frankenstein, I thought it was indeed interesting how Mary Shelley incorporated themes of gender and the aspect of creation. Mary Shelley uses her own life experiences to shape her works and to gain ideas to integrate social issues into her work. Mary Shelley portrays the problems and incorporates them throughout the book and touches on the aspect of social hierarchies of gender, which inherently value men over women. In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, issues of gender and […]

Who is the Real Monster in Frankenstein

Monsters in literature are normally characterized as a creature that possesses some type of inhuman qualities or deformities, is perceived as evil, and has no compassion for mankind. The term monster can also refer to a person who has done a terrible thing in life that poorly affects others around them. In literature, outcasts are people who are not wanted and are rejected by society. In the novel Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley, many readers label the creature as a monster […]

The American and the French Revolutions

The right of revolution was an idea proposed by Enlightenment Philosopher John Locke, which inspired and challenged the colonies in America and the people of France to revolt. Displeased with their current positions with their governments, they mustered up the courage and strength to challenge authority. Through their battles and hardships, both revolutions sought a government that mirrored the Enlightenment beliefs of natural rights, power of the people, and equality. With those goals in mind, they demonstrated the idea that […]

We will write an essay sample crafted to your needs.

Gothic Elements in Frankenstein

Mary Shelley lived and wrote her novel Frankenstein during the peak of the romantic era of literature in the early 1800's. She shows this as her work reflects many of the key elements that are associated with romanticism. In Frankenstein, Shelley also utilizes many of the elements of gothic literature. Shelley uses many of the conventions aligned with romantic and gothic literature in Frankenstein's setting, subject matter, characterization, and plot to portray her overall tone and mood in the novel. […]

Physical Appearance in Frankenstein

The main theme in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is the importance of appearance which correlates to the idea of acceptance in modern society. Today's society, as well as in the society of Frankenstein, people judge one often solely on their looks. Social prejudice is often based on looks, whether it be the pigments that make up someone's skin color, the facial features that one has and the clothes that a person wears. Society makes rapid judgments based on these and other […]

Differences between French, Russian and American Revolutions

A revolution is a successful attempt made by a large group of people to change / challenge the political system of their country. People who are willing to engage and take action in a revolution are trying to fix the struggles in justice, reminding people not to forget the future against the past. People who want to change the political system are looking out for the future of their country. Revolution was the only way average people or citizens felt […]

Frankenstein Revenge

In her novel ?Frankenstein?, Mary Shelley shows that both Frankenstein and his creature are obsessed with revenge through their strong emotional language and obsessive actions, yet neither of them wins and gets revenge in the end. After Victor Frankenstein is threatened by the creature after destroying his nearly complete bride, Frankenstein states that he “?burned with rage to pursue the murderer of my peace and precipitate him into the ocean. I walked up and down my room hastily and perturbed, […]

Family Relations and Alienation in “Frankenstein”

In today's fast-paced world, it is important to build connections and relationships with people and society. Being able to bond with surroundings, is key for living a healthy and happy life. Family is what helps humans build their foundations and are able to learn and succeed with the support of them. In Mary Shelley's novel, Frankenstein, the lack of connection the characters have to either their family or society leads them to murder, hopelessness and tragedy. Specifically Victor and his […]

Shelley about Romanticism Versus the Enlightenment

In the novel, "Frankenstein," Mary Shelley uses various elements of both mysterious and romantic literature to convey her indictment of the Enlightenment thinking over the use of her characters displayed throughout the novel. Being written in the time of the Romantic era, Shelley uses vivid language to portray her objection of the Enlightenment age as it influenced many people to use logical reasoning and science to disregard barbarism and superstition from the World. In Frankenstein, Shelley's response to this ideology […]

Frankenstein Dangerous Knowledge

Isolation is a dangerous act. Whether it is forced by the ones around us or a choice made by us to be alone isolation separates the victim from society damaging them emotionally. In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the monster, Frankenstein's monster, comes to know the true act of isolation. The monster was not only cast out by the townspeople but by his creator. Their prejudiced views of the monster as only that, a monster, turned him into what they truly sought […]

Frankenstein Isolation

One theme presented in Marry Shelley's book Frankenstein is the theme of isolation. Right from the beginning, someone has felt isolated from someone else. The three characters consistently developed the theme of isolation are Victor, the Creature, and Elizabeth. Though the three experience isolation, their isolation experience differs. Unlike the Creature and Elizabeth, Victor chose to isolate himself from people. This is evidenced from right when he was working on his research and when he tries to create a life. […]

Dark Romanticism

“Words have no power to impress the mind without the exquisite horror of their reality” (Edgar Allan Poe). Dark Romanticism is a literary movement that made waves that still resonate today within modern horror and pop culture, from Frankenstein to Dracula many recognizable names came from this era of writing. From the subjects covered by the many influential authors of the era to how it still has a place within modern writing, Dark Romanticism, a writing movement that began in […]

Feminism Represented through Frankenstein Characters

Frankenstein is known all over for being about a monster that loses control and kills people, but no one talks about some of the topics that Mary Shelley portrays in the novel. This book seems male dominant. The females play a big role, but not in the way that big roles are usually played. Women seem to hide from playing a part in Frankenstein, but Mary Shelley finds a way to display feminism in the book and that is how […]

Discrimination and Prejudice in Frankenstein

During our human history, prejudice and discrimination have existed. Prejudice refers to the irrational and inflexible attitudes that members of a particular group hold about members of another group (Sibley and Duckitt 248). Prejudices are either harmful or positive. Both forms of prejudice are usually preconceived by the people who hold them and are extremely difficult to alter (Stephan, Cookie and Stephan 33). The negative form of prejudices leads to discrimination- unjust behaviors that holders of negative prejudice direct against […]

Philosophy of Dualism and Materialism in “Frankenstein”

In Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, the philosophies of dualism and materialism can be found through the story's main characters, Victor Frankenstein and the Creature. Throughout the novel, the decisions that both make and their justifications for those decisions are rooted in both dualistic and materialistic ideas. In the scene leading up to the creation to the Creature as well as the scene itself, much of Victor's decision to even try such a feit stems from a materialistic standpoint, using science […]

The French Revolution Within Frankenstein

Almost twenty years after the end of the French Revolution, Mary Shelley published her gothic horror novel, Frankenstein, in 1818. Shelley grew up with parents who were intellectual radicals (Sterrenburg 143). Yet, she was detached from radicalism and opted for a more conservative perspective (Sterrenburg 143). She did a vast amount of readings on the French Revolution (Sterrenburg 143). By extensively studying the ideas around the revolution, it is not a surprise that they appear embedded through her work, more […]

American, French and Mexican Revolutions

When it comes to the American Revolution, there was one individual that gave American people an idea of what they should be fighting for. John Locke’s idea of “life, liberty, and estate” heavily inspired Thomas Jefferson’s “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” when fighting against the British. So why did the Americans revolt? What beliefs did they have? One thing the American, French, and Mexican revolutions have in common is that their governments were corrupt. The Colonists called for […]

The Role of Science in Frankenstein

Mary Shelley tells a story of a scientist who creates a hideous creature in the novel Frankenstein. Victor Frankenstein is an amazing, smart scientist who admired human anatomy, and soon decided to create his own creature. Who is more at fault for the monsters behavior, Victor or the monster? If you were in the monsters position would you become a murderer for revenge? The monster is often viewed as the antagonist, however is Victor Frankenstein the reason many people in […]

Frankenstein and Gothic Literature

The character's identity and outward appearance interferes with the norms of the hierarchical societies in which they live. Thus, preventing them from experiencing life outside of the isolated confinement they are subjected to. While experiencing a constant conflict with acceptance it strikes the curiosity inside them. In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the experience of loneliness and obsession of science drives Victor Frankenstein to assume the role of God by reanimating a corpse. The horror presented derives from the source of control […]

Creation of Life in “Frankenstein”

The next major aspect of the novel that I would like to focus on is the creation of Frankenstein. This will include dissecting the experience into pieces, such as the use of technology, the role of God and religion and the reason behind creating the monster. In the novel, technology is used in correlation with the creation of Frankenstein. Victor says, I collected bones from charnel houses; and distributed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame (Shelley […]

Foster’s Chapter “Every Trip is a Quest” in “Frankenstein”

In Foster's Chapter, Every Trip Is A Quest , he implies that every journey is a quest and every quest has to have a quester, a place to go, a stated reason to go there, challenges and trials along the way, and a real reason to go. When a character goes on a quest, he goes with intentions on fulfilling the originally stated reason, but once he is on the quest, he never ends up going for that originally stated […]

Economic Crisis Druing the French Revolution

The economic issues made by the French kings additionally added to the Revolution. Amid the eighteenth century, the French government spent more cash than it gathered in expenses. By 1788, the nation was bankrupt. Arthur Young, an Englishmen, and spectator, who ventured out to France from 1787 to 1789 furiously portray the living conditions of the workers in his book Travels in France (Campbell, 18). The measure of expense every individual must pay is out of line. Landholders found in […]

The History of Frankenstein in Film

From the dawn of the cinematic age, both horror and science fiction films have been shown throughout every cinema available. More common, however, were films based upon previously written works such as books or plays as they were easy to adapt from one medium to another. In 1910, Edison studios released what would inevitably lead to a cultural shift around the plot of one of the most famous, if not the most famous gothic novels: Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1818). The […]

Isolation: Frankenstein and the Heart of Darkness

As humans we are naturally inclined to socialize with each other. There are times when we don’t want to be surrounded by others and just by ourselves, but prolonging that isolation can be detrimental to one’s psyche. Isolation can lead to stress levels rising, poor sleep, immune system dysfunction, and even cognitive depreciation (Psychology Today). In Heart of Darkness ?by Joseph Conrad, we see through Marlow’s eyes the descent of the antagonist Kurtz due to prolonged isolation in the wild […]

Technology and Morality in Shelley’s “Frankenstein”

In Frankenstein, Shelley addresses her concerns regarding human advancement by using a framed narrative that includes parallels, foils, and allusions in order to express that many people are unaware of the consequences of their actions because their hubris and ambition blinds them. This tends to disrupt the balance of society. Shelley’s framed structure leads us gradually to the central ideas of her novel and has us question our own society as a whole. The intention of each narrative in the […]

Victor Frankenstein in “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist in the 18th century. The story begins with a letter from Captain Walton to his sister. The first letter is dated 17--. In Walton's letters, he tells his sister of his encounter with the scientist Victor Frankenstein. Victor becomes consumed with discovering the secret of creating life. In his pursuit of this knowledge, Victor creates a living creature made of body parts of corpses. Victor is successful in creating life, but […]

How Technology Changed Society

Technology has dramatically changed society in ways people never imagined. Before the dawn of modern-day technology, life was troublesome and everyday tasks like chores or transport consumed too much of humans’ effort and time. Now, because of technology human can communicate, transport, and work faster than ever. Due to the efficiency of tech, humans’ lives have been eased tremendously and almost all humans live in comfort. In the 21st Century, technology and human life are inseparable; society these days depends […]

Frankenstein Book Review

In the book “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley, it is clear to lay the blame upon Victor Frankenstein. The definition of blame is the assignation of responsibility towards someone/something for a fault or wrong. Victor’s love and passion for science led to a monstrous idea and ended up killing three people. While his pride was a driving force, abandoning the creature was not a smart move. Due to the fact that his idea was matched with the act of doing gives […]

Frankenstein: the Cruelty he Faced

For centuries, society has placed stereotypes on those individuals who are different. Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein is an example of one specific stereotype, which is the discrimination of a person because of a physical deformity. Frankenstein shows how social prejudices against physical deformities can automatically classify a person as bad or monstrous. In gothic novels, visual codes were used to identify good from bad and socially acceptable from socially unacceptable. By using these codes, it was possible to tell if […]

Frankenstein Critical Analysis

In Mary Shelley's novel, Frankenstein, isolation is a motif, or recurring idea with symbolic importance, revealed throughout the story between two characters, Victor Frankenstein, and his scientifically animated monster, the Creature. They both engage in acts and narratives of projecting the consequential dogma of isolation, that inevitably isolation results negatively and perpetuates misanthropy. Victor on one hand is an obsessive personality, lost in his studies he removes himself from very much human contact and engaging society. It results in his […]

Related topic

Additional example essays.

• Gender Roles in the Great Gatsby
• The short story "The Cask of Amontillado"
• Is Chris McCandless a Hero?
• Jane Eyre - Insider and Outsider in Society
• Analysis of Antigone by Sophocles
• The Yellow Wallpaper Feminism
• An Analysis of the Use of Irony in The Most Dangerous Game
• Symbols and Their Meanings in "Heart of Darkness"
• A Raisin in the Sun Theme
• How the Roles of Women and Men Were Portrayed in "A Doll's House"
• Positive Effects of Social Media
• Importance Of Accountability

How To Write an Essay About Frankenstein

Introduction to mary shelley's frankenstein.

Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" is a seminal work of Gothic literature that explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the nature of humanity. In the introduction of your essay, set the stage by briefly summarizing the novel's plot, which centers around Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. Highlight the novel's key themes, such as the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, the quest for knowledge, and the moral implications of playing God. This introduction should provide a snapshot of the novel’s key elements and the thematic explorations you will delve into, laying the groundwork for a critical examination of Shelley's work.

Analyzing Themes and Characters

In the body of your essay, focus on a detailed exploration of the novel's central themes. Discuss the theme of creation and the consequences of Victor Frankenstein's pursuit of scientific discovery without ethical boundaries. Analyze the creature’s development and his quest for identity and companionship, which turns into a desire for revenge against his creator. Explore the novel's exploration of isolation, both self-imposed and societal, as experienced by Victor and his creature. Additionally, examine the characters' relationships and how they contribute to the novel's themes, using specific examples from the text to support your analysis. Each paragraph should focus on a different theme or character, weaving a comprehensive understanding of Shelley’s narrative.

The Novel's Context and Shelley's Writing

It's important to contextualize "Frankenstein" within its historical and literary background. Discuss the significance of the novel being written during the early 19th century, a time of significant scientific advancement and romantic literary movement. Explore how Shelley’s personal experiences and the scientific context of her time influenced the themes and style of "Frankenstein." Additionally, consider the novel's structure, narrative technique, and use of symbolism and imagery. This part of the essay should demonstrate an understanding of how "Frankenstein" not only reflects the time in which it was written but also contributes to the genre of science fiction.

Concluding Reflections

Conclude your essay by summarizing the key points of your analysis and reaffirming the novel's significance in literary history. Reflect on the enduring relevance of "Frankenstein" in modern times, particularly in discussions about scientific ethics, the boundaries of human endeavor, and the consequences of technological advancement. Consider the novel's impact on readers and its role in shaping subsequent literary and cultural narratives. A strong conclusion will not only encapsulate your insights but also underscore the novel's continued importance, encouraging readers to reflect on its themes in the context of today's world.

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers