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The Romantic Movement and Frankenstein

The Romantic movement, which emerged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was a reaction to the rationalism and industrialization of the Enlightenment. Romantic writers often explored themes of nature, emotion, the individual, and the supernatural. Frankenstein is a quintessential Romantic text, reflecting the movement’s key characteristics.

• The Sublime: The novel delves into the sublime, a concept that evokes feelings of awe, terror, and wonder. The creation of the monster and the subsequent destruction it causes taps into these emotions.
• The Individual and Society: The novel explores the individual’s relationship to society and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Frankenstein’s isolation and the creature’s rejection by society highlight the importance of human connection.
• The Gothic: The Gothic genre, characterized by its emphasis on the supernatural, the grotesque, and the irrational, is evident in the novel’s dark and mysterious atmosphere. The creation of life and the subsequent horror it unleashes are classic Gothic tropes.

The historical and political context of the Romantic period also influenced the novel. The French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars had destabilized Europe, leading to a sense of uncertainty and disillusionment. Frankenstein reflects these anxieties, as it warns against the dangers of unchecked scientific progress and the potential consequences of playing God.

In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a powerful example of Romantic literature, blending Gothic elements with profound philosophical questions. The novel’s exploration of themes such as the nature of life, the limits of science, and the consequences of ambition continues to resonate with readers today.