Frankenstein: sub-text

Identifying Sub-Text

Defining Sub-Text: Sub-text refers to the significant meanings which underlie the literal words of the text. In theatrical terms, it represents the thoughts and emotions of a character that are not explicitly stated in the dialogue.
Contextual Understanding: Having a solid grasp of the historical and social contexts of “Frankenstein” will aid in identifying the sub-text. This includes understanding the Enlightenment era’s scientific advancements, the Industrial Revolution’s effects, and Mary Shelley’s personal life.
Characterisation: The way characters are developed and portrayed throughout the text often reveals important sub-textual information. Consider Victor Frankenstein’s obsession, the Creature’s loneliness, or Elizabeth’s submissive role.

Frankenstein’s Obsession and God Complex: Victor Frankenstein’s desire to create and give life to a being can be seen as a sub-textual commentary on hubris and the dangers of overstepping human bounds.
Creature’s Desire for Companionship: The Creature’s yearning for companionship and acceptance highlights the inherent need for social bonds and the devastating impact of rejection and isolation.
Elizabeth’s Passive Role: Elizabeth’s lack of agency and her sacrificial demise underscore the sub-textual critique of patriarchal norms and the oppression of women in the era.

Character Decisions and Movement: An actor’s decisions in voice, movement, and gesture can communicate sub-text. For example, the Creature’s aggressive movements might suggest an internal struggle with anger and resentment.
Design Elements: Set, costume, sound, and lighting design can also indicate sub-text. Victor’s lab might hint at his hubris, while dismal, cold backdrops could suggest the isolation felt by the Creature.
Directional Choices: A director’s interpretation of the sub-text will significantly impact the overall production. They might emphasise the harsh realities of scientific advancement or bring forward themes of isolation and societal rejection.