Frankenstein (eBook)

Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797-1851) was a seminal figure in the realm of Gothic and science fiction literature. Best known for her iconic novel 'Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus' (1818), Shelley's work traversed the philosophical concerns of her time, such as the nature of life and the boundaries of scientific exploration. Born to political philosopher William Godwin and feminist advocate Mary Wollstonecraft, her intellectual milieu was enriched from the start. Shelley's life was marred by personal tragedies, including the death of her mother shortly after her birth, and the later loss of her husband, the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. 'Frankenstein' was conceived during a summer sojourn with Percy, Lord Byron, and others, where a ghost story challenge led to its creation. Her narrative technique and use of the epistolary form in 'Frankenstein' demonstrate an innovative approach to storytelling that weaves a tale of ambition, responsibility, and the quest for immortality. The novel has since become a cornerstone of Gothic literature, inspiring countless adaptations and discussions on the ethics of creation. Beyond 'Frankenstein,' Shelley's literary contributions include works such as 'The Last Man' and 'Valperga,' though none achieved the acclaim of her inaugural masterpiece. Her authorship reflects a synthesis of Romantic ideology and probing exploration into the human condition—a legacy that continues to resonate in contemporary literature and culture.