Explore how Mary Shelley develops the gothic genre in chapter 4 and 5 of Frankenstein.

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Emma Burge 10V1

English Coursework – Frankenstein Prose Study

Explore how Mary Shelley develops the gothic genre in chapter 4 and 5 of Frankenstein.

Up until 1800, literature in general consisted of a spontaneous expression of idyllic images of love – ultimately categorised as “The Romantic Movement.” From this sprouted Romanticism’s antithesis – literary Gothicism.

When it was first introduced in the late 18th century, Gothic literature featured accounts of terrifying experiences set in graveyards or ancient castles, and descriptive motifs such as flickering lamps and ghostly figures. These have now become images of stereotypical horror. As it developed, Gothic literature came to designate everything to do with the macabre, mysterious and supernatural in literature more generally.

Now one of the most recognisable forms of literature, Gothicism gained its popularity due to the stark contrast from anything that preceded it, and the surrounding controversy that shocked and intrigued its audiences. New scientific discovery swept across 18th century civilization, and the need for knowledge had overcome society. To the less educated, Gothic literature, (with its strong themes of science,) was seen as a way to further understand and involve themselves within these interesting developments, while the experienced scientist would be curious of the science mentioned in Gothicism.

Another major theme that Gothicism claimed was religion. The society of mid 1800 looked upon God as an omnipotent figure; he was powerful, judgmental and supreme. However, many opposing and previously untouched views on God were infused in the theme of Gothic literature.

Even today, the difference between science and religion is a topic of great controversy, and entwining these two conflicting subjects within one novel had groundbreaking effects on 18th century society.

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Out of the many stories and poems spawned from this new and exciting literary genre, the piece that most distinguished – and later became a symbol - of Gothicism is the novel “Frankenstein”. The author, Mary Shelley, incorporates many of the above-mentioned elements as well as other subtler Gothic conventions in this gruesome but poignant story, making her and her novel the instigators of this whole literary period.

Part of Shelley’s talent could perhaps have derived from her own dark background. Left alone in the world after her mother’s death, and cast out of society ...

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