Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

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G.C.S.E English and English Literature coursework:

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

The novel Frankenstein was written by Mary Shelley in 1818, although it was first told orally in 1816. She told the story because she was with her husband, Percy Shelley and some friends, who decided to tell stories, as it was a stormy night in Germany, by the lakeside. They all made up stories and they decided that her story was the best. They suggested that she make her sorry into a book, so she did,

Mary Shelley’s story had many influences. For example electricity had just been discovered in the 18th century, There was also an experiment on a man called Thomas Foster in which it was discovered that when applying electricity onto certain parts of a human corpse, it would make the corpse move, which happens in the story Frankenstein. Mary Shelley was also influenced by her father, William Godwin, a philosopher. Mary Shelley’s mother died during childbirth.

Mary Shelley was brought up believing that men and woman were equal; that she could do anything men could do. She also had a quality education, so she understood science and the human body. Her husband, Percy Shelley, was also amazed at electricity. This is shown in Frankenstein.

Mary Shelly changed the 'Gothic Horror' genre with the story Frankenstein. This story is not just about monsters, as it also has a meaning; that man can play god, and create something evil. She is able to create fear with this story as much now as back in 1818.

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During the first part of the book, Frankenstein works hard at creating like because he has a personal grief for his mother. It goes back to when he was younger, and his mother died during childbirth, this also links to Mary Shelley, whose mother also died in childbirth. He doesn't want people to feel like he does towards his mothers death, so he is dedicated to creating life. He is very persistent with his work and ambitions in his dream. At his point, his character is very worrying, as he is spending all his time trying to create life, and ...

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