The novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley is widely regarded as a classic of English literature, which was highly influenced by two major works of literature: the Creation myth “Prometheus” and the epic poem “Paradise Lost.” These two texts heavily impacted the characters and the plot of Frankenstein. Throughout the novel, the characters and plot are shaped by the themes and motifs of these important texts.
Frankenstein is affected by the Creation myth “Prometheus” as it is the story of someone who rebels against the gods and steals fire from them to give to mankind. This is echoed in the novel, as Victor Frankenstein is said to create life against the laws of nature and is punished for it. This is particularly evident in novel’s title, where Victor is described as “The Modern Prometheus” (Ping 255). This comparison to the mythological figure is used to demonstrate the danger of Victor’s actions, as Prometheus was cursed by the gods for his actions.
“Paradise Lost” also influences the novel, as both stories revolve around a being who rebels against a higher power. In both stories, the protagonist is punished for their actions. In “Paradise Lost,” Adam and Eve are disciplined for disobeying God, while in Frankenstein, Victor is punished for “the Satanic revolt” (Ping 256). This is particularly evident in the passage where Victor is said to have “lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit” (Shelley 45). This comparison to Adam and Eve’s pursuit of knowledge is used to demonstrate the danger of Victor’s actions.
“The Prometheus” and “Paradise Lost” not only affect the characters and the plot of Frankenstein but also provide a unique interpretation of the creation myths. In Frankenstein, Shelley uses the “Prometheus” and “Paradise Lost” to explore the themes of ambition, hubris, and the consequences of playing God. Through the use of these two influential texts, Shelley created a timeless and powerful work of literature.
Works Cited
Ping, Tang Soo. “Frankenstein, “Paradise Lost” and “The Majesty of Goodness”.” College Literature, vol. 16, no. 3, 1989, pp. 255-260.
Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein (Webster’s Thesaurus Edition). ICON Classics, 2005.