Frankenstein
A twisted, upside-down creation myth that gave birth to the modern science fiction novel
Frankenstein, Mary Shelley's chilling Gothic tale, lays bare the dark side of science, and the horror within us all. Written after a nightmare Mary Shelley was only eighteen, this book gave birth to the modern science fiction novel.
Set against the backdrop of Europe in the late 18th century, Frankenstein explores themes of scientific ethics, the nature of monstrosity, and the consequences of playing god. The book follows the ambitious scientist Victor Frankenstein who plunders graveyards to create a human-like creature from reanimated body parts, driven by his desire to overcome death and unlock the secrets of life. Frankenstein is often considered a reflection of the cultural and scientific anxieties of the time, with the Industrial Revolution and advancements in science raising questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration.
Despite first being published in 1818, this novel remains relevant today, prompting discussions on the consequences of unchecked ambition and societal rejection of the “other.” This seminal work is perfect for fans of the Gothic and science fiction genres.
Mary Shelley (b. 1797) was an English novelist, short story writer, dramatist, essayist, biographer, and travel writer, best known for Frankenstein: or, The Modern Prometheus. She also edited and promoted the works of her husband, the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Anne DeLong is Associate Professor of English at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, and has a PhD from Lehigh University. Her research interests include nineteenth-century British literature, the Gothic and feminist literary theory. She is co-editor of The Journal of Dracula Studies.
Tom Butler-Bowdon is series editor of the Capstone Classics series and has written introductions to Plato's Republic, Epictetus's Discourses, Machiavelli's The Prince, and Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations. A graduate of the London School of Economics, he is also the author of 50 Philosophy Classics, 50 Politics Classics, and 50 Psychology Classics.