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How do the events of Frankenstein reflect Romanticism?

User Haydenmuhl
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Final answer:

Frankenstein incorporates key themes of Romanticism such as the prioritization of emotion over reason, the in-depth exploration of the sublime in nature, and the complex portrayal of the Romantic hero, all wrapped in a gothic narrative style that highlights the individual's struggle against societal norms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The events of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein reflect Romanticism through several key elements that include the focus on emotion, the fascination with the sublime in nature, and the revolt against Enlightenment rationalism. The novel delves into the unbridled passion and ambition of its protagonist, Victor Frankenstein, and his subsequent terror in the face of the creature he creates. This aligns with Romanticism's valorization of emotion and imagination over reason. Moreover, Victor's solitary quest for knowledge and ensuing consequences draw parallels with the story of Icarus, symbolizing the Romantic hero's tragic flaw of unchecked ambition. Additionally, the creature's interaction with the natural world and the effect of society on its character development reflects the Romantic preoccupation with nature and the individual's place within it. Lastly, the novel's dark and gothic elements correspond to the period's captivation with the supernatural and the ordinary person's strife, showcasing a clear departure from the rational and formulaic compositions of the past era.

User Bender
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