Frankenstein: Society's Creation of Monsters

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

A fundamental belief of Romanticism is that man is naturally good, but civilization removes man from nature, hindering his ability to behave well.

Throughout Shelley's novel, she portrays the downward spiral of Victor and his creation. Ultimately, both men are portrayed as monstrous villains because each one is determined to destroy the other.

Victor was raised in a loving home and given every advantage in life; however, he goes down a dark path. His refusal to take responsibility for his foolish actions leads to the destruction of those he loves most.

The creature is abandoned from the moment of its birth and never receives acceptance or love. His natural curiosity and kindness are quickly squashed as he becomes cruel and murderous.

Their character transformations are an essential part of Shelley's attempt to explore whether a person's character is shaped more by his nature or his nurture.

In 2011, the Royal National Theatre put on a stage production of the novel Frankenstein. Watch behind-the-scenes interviews about various aspects of Victor's character.

• How could society's emphasis on success and fame have influenced Victor's desire to create life?
• How does Victor's isolation from his family and loved ones negatively influence him? Specifically, how do you think the loss of his mother affected him?

Now, watch the video below on the creature's character.

• What does Shelley indicate about a society based on its treatment of the creature?
• Why is it so significant that Shelley gives the creature a voice throughout the novel?

• Do you think Victor and the creature were born cruel monsters, or were they transformed into cruel monsters as a result of their environment?
• Does Shelley seem to argue that one's nature or one's nurture (or lack thereof) has a more significant impact on one's character?

Continue to the Got It? section to explore further.