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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Chapter 5
In Chapter 5, Victor Frankenstein animates his Creature only to be horrified by its appearance, leading to a nervous breakdown. His friend Henry Clerval provides care, emphasizing the contrast between Victor’s rejection and Clerval’s compassion. This underscores themes of responsibility, humanity, and the consequences of unchecked ambition in Shelley’s narrative. Continue reading
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Mary Shelley and The Romantic Movement
The Romantic movement, prominent in late 18th to early 19th century Europe, emphasized imagination, nature, and human emotion, contrasting Enlightenment rationalism. Key figures like Mary Shelley explored themes of ambition and individual experience. Her novel “Frankenstein” reflects Romantic ideals and critiques unchecked rationality, highlighting the complexities of creation and existence. Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Chapter 4
Playing with Fire In Chapter 4, Victor throws himself fully into his studies, spending long days and sleepless nights in his laboratory. His obsession isolates him from family, nature, and the rhythms of ordinary life. Here we see his ambition shift from curiosity to dangerous overreach. He no longer studies knowledge for its own sake, Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Chapter 3
In Chapter 3 of “Frankenstein,” Victor experiences profound loss as his mother dies, prompting his departure to the University of Ingolstadt. This transition mirrors biblical themes of exile and loss. Inspired by Professor Waldman, Victor’s ambition to explore science emerges, foreshadowing both greatness and potential ruin as he seeks knowledge. Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Chapter 2
In Chapter 2, Victor Frankenstein reflects on his childhood curiosity and passion for learning, heavily influenced by books on alchemy and natural philosophy. His relationships with family and friends, like Clerval and Elizabeth, shape his ambitions. However, his fascination with hidden knowledge foreshadows his tragic downfall, revealing the duality of curiosity as both enlightening and… Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Chapter 1
The content outlines the idyllic childhood of the Stranger, paralleling Mary Shelley’s life. Born in Geneva, he describes his family’s esteemed background and his parents’ loving relationship. The chapter introduces Elizabeth as a cherished companion, raising questions about women’s roles in society, reflecting both 19th-century norms and Wollstonecraft’s advocacy for equality. Continue reading
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The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner is a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. It’s place in the English literary canon as an exemplary Romantic poem remains to this day. Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus – Letters 1, 2, 3, and 4
You seek for knowledge and wisdom, as I once did; and I ardently hope that the gratification of your wishes may not be a serpent to sting you, as mine has been. Continue reading
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Paradise Lost – As Seen in Frankenstein
Mary Shelley’s inclusion of Milton’s Paradise Lost in Frankenstein underscores her novel’s thematic depth. By paralleling the narratives of creation, abandonment, and rebellion, Shelley reinterprets Milton’s work. Victor Frankenstein embodies a flawed creator, while the Creature reflects both Adam and Satan, illustrating profound insights on human ambition and responsibility. Continue reading
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Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus – Read with Me!
From September to Halloween, I will host a read-along of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein on my blog. Each chapter will be covered with contextual insights and discussion prompts. This engaging journey aims to explore the novel’s profound themes while accommodating both new readers and long-time fans of this seminal work. Continue reading
Sid in Japan 