Frankenstein: Character Studies

Description

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is one of the most widely read novels of all time. Its two central characters, the scientist Victor Frankenstein and the being he creates, have gained mythic status in their own right. Engaging with the novel's characterization is crucial to gaining a real understanding of its themes and contexts, including education, gender difference, imperialism, personal identity, revolutionary politics, and science. This study includes: an introductory overview of the novel, including a brief account of its historical and literary contexts; its reception history; discussion of the major themes and narrative structure; detailed analysis of, the representation of main characters, such as Walton, Frankenstein, and the creature; and a conclusion reminding students of the links between the characters and the key themes and issues.

David Higgins is Associate Professor in English Literature at the University of Leeds, UK. He has published widely on Romantic-period literature, including the books Romantic Genius and the Literary Magazine (2005) and Romantic Englishness: Local, National, and Global Selves, 1780-1850 (2014).

'Cogent, thoughtful and readily enjoyable...The issues surrounding Shelley's great novel live again in Higgins's fresh, lucid prose'. Gregory Dart, University College London, UK. "...a lot to offer to teachers...useful aid..." The Use of English, Summer 2009