Frankenstein is a classic gothic horror novel written by Mary Shelley and published in 1818 It tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a monster using stolen body parts and a science experiment gone horribly wrong. The novel is widely considered to be one of the first science-fiction stories ever written. Frankenstein is also an often studied piece of literature, as it contains many themes and topics that can be explored. Many students write essays on Frankenstein and come up with interesting essay topics.
1. Analyze the ethical implications of the “playing God” nature of Victor Frankenstein’s actions.
2. Consider the responsibility of different characters when it comes to the creation of the monster in the novel.
3. Analyze how Frankenstein is a cautionary tale about the dangers of overreaching and unchecked scientific progress.
4. Discuss Shelley’s creation of the sympathetic monster and its effect on readers.
5. Examine how Victor Frankenstein as a scientist is ultimately responsible for his actions even if he does not directly commit them.