Frankenstein: social context – A Level Drama and Theatre OCR Revision

Enlightenment and Romanticism

“Frankenstein” is a product of the Age of Enlightenment, an intellectual movement of the 18th-century that advocated reason as the primary source of authority. Victor Frankenstein embodies the Enlightenment thinker, driven by scientific curiosity and rational thought.
However, Shelley also critiques this rationality by exposing its potentially destructive consequences, hence intertwining the text with elements of Romanticism. This movement emphasised emotional depth, individualism, nature, and the dangers of unchecked rationalism.

The novel resonates with the anxieties of the Industrial Revolution, an era of disruptive technological advancements. Frankenstein’s creature can be interpreted as a metaphor for the by-products of the era’s unchecked industrial growth, reflecting societal fear of creation turning against its creator.

Feminism is also a significant theme explored within the novel. The passive portrayal and tragic end of the female characters can be seen as a critique of the status of women in Shelley’s society.
Furthermore, the creation of the creature without the necessity of a woman challenges the traditional notions of motherhood and procreation.

“Frankenstein” raises questions about the state of education and mentorship during Shelley’s time. Victor’s self-guided education leads him to destructive ends, critiquing an education system driven by individual ambition rather than balanced intellectual development.

A post-colonial reading of “Frankenstein” suggests the creature’s narrative reflects the experiences of marginalized individuals in colonized societies. The creature’s rejection from society and subsequent rebellion mirror the oppressed seeking recognition and response.

Lastly, “Frankenstein” raises issues regarding ethical science. It brings into focus the intricate relation between scientific innovation and moral responsibility, a topic of heated debate in Shelley’s time as much as today. The novel asks whether humanity has the right to create life, posing the quintessential question: ‘Just because we can, does it mean we should?’