Answer:
Title: Frankenstein
Author: Mary Shelley
Summary:
"Frankenstein" is a classic novel written by Mary Shelley, first published in 1818. The story follows the young and ambitious scientist Victor Frankenstein as he becomes obsessed with the idea of creating life. Driven by his desire to conquer death and transcend the limits of human knowledge, Victor successfully reanimates a creature from discarded body parts.
However, his creation, commonly referred to as "Frankenstein's Monster," is a grotesque and misunderstood being. Frightened by the creature he has brought to life, Victor abandons it. The novel delves into the tragic consequences of this decision as the monster, desperate for human connection, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and revenge.
As the narrative unfolds, the novel raises profound questions about the ethics of scientific experimentation, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the complexities of human nature. It's a tale of loneliness, rejection, and the pursuit of knowledge at any cost.
Author Notes:
Mary Shelley, born in 1797, was a British novelist and the daughter of two influential writers, Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin. She was a pioneer of the science fiction genre and wrote "Frankenstein" when she was only 18 years old, during a rainy summer in Switzerland. The novel emerged from a literary competition among her friends, including Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley (her husband), to create the best ghost story.
Mary Shelley's creation of "Frankenstein" was groundbreaking for its time, exploring themes of human morality, scientific responsibility, and the consequences of playing god. Her work remains a timeless and thought-provoking piece of literature.
Favorite Character:
My favorite character in "Frankenstein" is the creature himself, often referred to as "Frankenstein's Monster" or simply "the Monster." What I find most compelling about this character is the depth of his suffering and his yearning for acceptance and love.
The Monster is not inherently evil, but a product of his circumstances. He is rejected by his creator and by society due to his appearance, which drives him to commit acts of violence and revenge. Throughout the novel, his eloquent narration of his experiences, loneliness, and inner turmoil elicits sympathy from the reader.
While Victor Frankenstein is a central character, it is the Monster's complex journey of self-discovery and his desperate search for connection that makes him my favorite character. Mary Shelley's portrayal of the Monster challenges us to consider the consequences of societal rejection and the capacity for empathy, even in the face of those who appear monstrous.