Overview of Frankenstein

Frankenstein is fascinating as it raises the questions of ethics and prejudice. The recurring theme of playing God and Christian morality gets readers thinking of how far is too far? Did Frankenstein have any right to create what he did and to then try and control it? The moral issues brought up are thought provoking as we sympathise with the monster who is shunned by society merely because of his appearance despite his gentle nature. Shelley successfully explores human emotions through solitude, companionship and obsession. The tragedy of the novel makes it intriguing as we participate in Frankenstein’s journey as he suffers the consequences of his actions.

Frankenstein - Significance of the Letters

The letters form a cycle within the novel, they round up the ending by allowing us a glimpse into the future of Frankenstein and what became of him and his monster. The letters are important because we immediately dive into a parallel character suffering from loneliness and a thirst for knowledge. This foreshadowing prepares us for Frankenstein's life and what is to become of him and why. Questions of creation arise within the letters as elements of poetry and the human drive are explored. The sailor has a strong determination to reach his goal and there is no limit to what he will do to get there. This recurring theme of self sacrifice is fascinating as we see how consumed Frankenstein and the sailor become with their work and the power it exudes over their lives. The sadness and dismal setting of the letter creates emotion in the readers as we sympathise with the sailor's longing for companionship. "There will be no one to participate in my joy," the desperation for a friend could potentially lead to the sailors downfall, as it did to Frankenstein.