FRANKENSTEIN
Covers (Book & Movie)
Cover of the Original Book
Anonymous first edition, 1818
Movie Poster
1931 film adaptation directed by James Whale
Synopsis
Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus is a seminal work of Gothic and science fiction literature written by Mary Shelley. The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist obsessed with uncovering the secret of life, who succeeds in creating a humanoid being from parts of corpses.
However, upon giving life to his creation, Victor is horrified by its monstrous appearance and flees, abandoning it. The creature, initially benevolent but condemned to solitude and rejection because of its appearance, becomes embittered and seeks revenge on its creator.
The work explores profound themes such as excessive ambition, the moral responsibility of science, the nature of good and evil, social rejection, and loneliness. Through the tragedy of both Victor and his creation, Shelley raises timeless questions about the ethical limits of human knowledge and the consequences of playing God.
The novel, written in 1816 when Mary Shelley was only 18 years old, has become a cultural icon that transcends literature, influencing cinema, theater, and popular culture for over two centuries.
Movie Trailer
Principal Characters
Victor Frankenstein
The young Swiss scientist obsessed with discovering the secret of life. His excessive ambition leads him to create a being from parts of corpses, but upon seeing the result of his experiment, he flees in horror, abandoning his creation.
La Criatura
A being created by Victor Frankenstein from parts of corpses. Although initially kind and seeking affection, the constant rejection from society due to his monstrous appearance turns him into a bitter and vengeful creature.
Elizabeth Lavenza
Victor Frankenstein’s fiancée and cousin. She represents kindness, beauty, and innocence in the story. She becomes a victim of the chain of vengeance between Victor and his creation.
Henry Clerval
Victor’s best friend since childhood. He represents the moral counterpoint to Victor’s obsession, showing an interest in the humanities rather than the sciences. His kind nature makes him another victim of the tragedy.
Alphonse Frankenstein
Victor Frankenstein’s father. He represents the patriarchal figure and benevolent authority. Throughout the story, he tries to guide his son onto the right path, concerned about his scientific obsession.
William Frankenstein
Victor’s younger brother. His tragic fate at the hands of the creature marks the point of no return in the story, unleashing the chain of vengeance that will consume the Frankenstein family.