Introduction
Written in the early 19th century, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” has become a pioneer of science fiction and a landmark work in Gothic literature. It is one of the novels that reflect the time they were written, providing insight into the values, beliefs, and social norms of the Romantic era. Two elements particularly reflective of the time are the themes of individualism and the sublime.
Individualism
The theme of individualism in “Frankenstein” directly reflects the Romantic era’s emphasis on the individual and their personal experiences. This era valued the individual’s imagination, emotions, and subjective experiences over the rationality and objectivity of the Enlightenment era that came before it. In the novel, this ideal is embodied in the character of Victor Frankenstein, who represents the romantic image of the artist or creator driven by their passions and imagination. The tale examines the perils of excessive individualism and the repercussions of ignoring moral and societal boundaries through his actions.
For example, when Victor creates the creature, he does so without considering the ethical implications of his actions. As a result, the creature becomes a monster who wreaks havoc and causes destruction. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive individualism and the importance of considering the broader consequences of one’s actions. As Victor says in the novel, “A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me.” (Shelley 32). Through this quote, the novel highlights the risks associated with extreme self-reliance and the necessity of acknowledging the broader impact of one’s decisions.
Sublime
In “Frankenstein,” the theme of the sublime, a central aspect of Romantic literature, is evident. The sublime refers to the awe-inspiring and frightening power of nature and was a prominent theme in Romantic works. This idea is embodied in the creature, who elicits both fear and awe with his appearance and actions. The creature embodies the Romantic ideal of the sublime as a dual force of beauty and terror, symbolizing the power of nature and the unknown.
Moreover, the creature’s rejection by society reflects the Romantic notion that nature is more potent than civilization. As the creature says, “Am I hated by all mankind? You, my creator, would tear me to pieces and triumph <…> tell me why I should pity man more than he pities me?” (Shelley 127). This quote highlights the creature’s feelings of isolation and loneliness, rooted in the Romantic ideal of the power of nature over civilization.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a seminal work in Gothic literature and science fiction that offers an understanding of fundamental principles, convictions, and societal expectations that were common in the Romantic era. The themes of individualism and the sublime mainly reflect the time, embodying the Romantic ideals of the individual and the power of nature. The novel examines the perils of extreme individualism and the significance of taking into account the broader ramifications of one’s actions through the figure of Victor Frankenstein. The creature, on the other hand, embodies the theme of the sublime and represents the Romantic notion of the power of nature over civilization. Overall, “Frankenstein” remains an important work that continues to captivate audiences and shed light on the Romantic era.
Work Cited
Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Alma Classics, 2014.
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