A Study of Romantic Factors in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein

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From the very opening of the novel, there is an introduction of a character and his relation to nature, in this case, Robert Walton as he depicts the grandeur of nature through his letters sent to her sister while setting out on his adventure to the North pole; “There, Margaret, the sun is forever visible, its broad disk just skirting the horizon and diffusing a perpetual splendour” (Shelley 10). Through this description, it is evident that Romantic elements are being portrayed through Frankenstein since the love and emotion for nature is emphasized repeatedly. Moreover, Romantic literature regards emotion and imagination as more important entities than reason and formal rules. This characteristic is exemplified throughout the novel and is the main cause of the scientist’s invention which is caused due to his curious nature rather than rational thoughts. Generally, The Romantic Movement was established in the late 18th century by artists across Europe. The concept of Romanticism is that rationality doesn’t provide an explanation to everything. Thus, Romantics were known for their irrational thoughts and deep emotions unlike the Enlightenment Age, where rationality, collective thoughts, science and deductive reason were heavily focused on which eventually led to the birth of the Industrial Revolution (Hug 17 Mar. 2014). Many writers embraced the ideology of Romanticism and often incorporated several characteristics throughout their texts, for instance, Marry Shelley’s Frankenstein. The novel regards a young curious scientist residing in Switzerland named, Victor Frankenstein. Being an inquiring individual, he shifts to the University of Ingolstadt where he develops an interest in alchemy and chemistry. Expanding his knowledge a...

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...ion, emotions are significant as they help in character development and as well as plot advancement. Emotions help the readers to acquire a better understanding of the characters. For instance, emotions play a significant role in the monster as it influences his choices. Lastly, the risk of acquiring too much knowledge is also exemplified throughout the novel to emphasize the negative roles of knowledge. It is evident through the story as the cause of the creation was due to exposure of too knowledge and understanding. Overall, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein represents one of the best works of Romantic literature as it accurately conveys romanticism’s thoughts and beliefs.

Works Cited

Shelly, Mary. Frankenstein. New York: New American Library, 1963. Print.
Hug, Matthew. “A study of Romanticism”.ENG2D7.Weston Collegiate Institute.17 March 2014.Electronic/Hard.

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