103 - Literature of the Romantics (22394)

 Assignment 103: Critical analysis of Frankenstein with mythological approach 

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This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 103 - Literature of the Romantics , Sem - 1, 2023.

Topic:Critical analysis of Frankenstein with mythological approach

 

Points to ponder: 

Personal information & assignment details

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction 

Mary Shelley

Frankenstein 

The Promethean Myth

The Narcissus Myth

The Edenic Myth

Connection with Frankenstein 

Conclusion 

Personal Information: 

Name: Riya M Bhatt. 

Betch: M.A sem 1 (2023-2025)

Enrollment number: 5108230005

Roll number: 28 

Email: riyabhatt6900@gmail.com

Assignment details: 

Topic:- Critical analysis of Frankenstein with mythological approach

Paper & subject code:- literature of Romantics (22394)

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar Date of Submission:- 01 December, 2023

Keywords: Promethean, Narcissus, Edenic.

Abstract

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, a timeless masterpiece of horror and philosophical inquiry, delves into the complex relationship between man and nature, the pursuit of knowledge, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Through a mythological lens, we can uncover deeper layers of meaning and symbolism embedded within the novel's narrative.

Critical analysis of Frankenstein with mythological approach

Critical analysis of Frankenstein with mythological approach

Introduction

Frankenstein, a novel by Mary Shelley, is a timeless masterpiece of horror and philosophical inquiry. The novel explores the complex relationship between man and nature, the pursuit of knowledge, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Through a mythological lens, we can uncover deeper layers of meaning and symbolism embedded within the novel's narrative.

Mary Shelley:

Mary Shelley was an English novelist, short story writer, dramatist, essayist, biographer, and travel writer best known for her novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818), which is considered an early example of science fiction literature. Her novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a sentient being in an unorthodox scientific experiment. However, Frankenstein becomes horrified by his creation, abandons it, and the creature goes on to seek revenge, causing a series of tragic events.Shelley was born into a prominent literary family, her mother being the feminist philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft and her father the political philosopher and writer William Godwin. She was raised in a household filled with intellectual discussions and a passion for literature. At the age of 16, she eloped with the famous Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, with whom she had three children. Shelley's travels and her exposure to the works of Enlightenment thinkers and Romantic writers greatly influenced her literary development.In 1816, while staying at Lord Byron's villa in Geneva, the Shelley's participated in a "ghost story" competition, which inspired Shelley's conception of Frankenstein. The novel was first published anonymously in 1818 and quickly gained popularity, captivating readers with its exploration of scientific ambition, the dangers of unchecked creation, and the nature of humanity. Frankenstein has been adapted into numerous films, television shows, and stage plays, becoming a cornerstone of horror fiction and a symbol of the moral and ethical dilemmas posed by scientific advancement.

Beyond Frankenstein, Shelley wrote several other novels, including Valperga (1823), The Last Man (1826), The Fortunes of Perkin Warbeck (1830), Lodore (1835), and Falkner (1837). She also penned a travel narrative, History of a Six Weeks' Tour (1817), and a biography of her husband, The Life of Percy Bysshe Shelley (1851). Shelley's works continue to be studied and admired for their imaginative depth, her exploration of profound human themes, and her contributions to the development of Gothic literature and science fiction.

The Promethean Myth

The Promethean myth, the story of Prometheus, a Titan in Greek mythology, who defied the gods by stealing fire from Mount Olympus to give to humanity, is central to Frankenstein. Victor Frankenstein, the novel's protagonist, embodies this Promethean archetype. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Victor seeks to create life itself. However, his creation, the creature, turns out to be a monstrous abomination.

 In the realm of Greek mythology, Prometheus, a Titan of exceptional intellect and cunning, stands as a towering figure, embodying the virtues of rebellion and the pursuit of knowledge. His name, meaning "forethought" or "wise foresight," aptly captures his essence as a visionary who dared to challenge the established order and champion the cause of humanity.

One of the most enduring tales associated with Prometheus revolves around his audacious act of stealing fire from the gods and bestowing it upon humankind. This seemingly innocuous gesture carried profound implications, signifying the transfer of knowledge and power from the divine realm to mortals. Fire, in ancient Greece, represented not just warmth and sustenance but also the transformative power of civilization.

Zeus, the mighty king of the gods, was incensed by Prometheus's defiance. His wrath manifested in a cruel and relentless punishment, chaining Prometheus to a rock in the unforgiving Caucasus Mountains. Every day, an eagle, sent by Zeus, would swoop down and tear out Prometheus's liver, only for it to regenerate miraculously overnight, ensuring an unending cycle of agony.

Despite the excruciating torment, Prometheus remained steadfast, his resolve unwavering. He never regretted his decision to uplift humanity, believing that knowledge and the ability to shape their own destiny were fundamental rights for mortals.

The myth of Prometheus has resonated through the ages, serving as a powerful allegory for the struggle between authority and rebellion, knowledge and control. Prometheus's unwavering commitment to humanity's progress stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

The myth's enduring relevance lies in its ability to transcend time and culture, speaking to the universal human desire for self-determination and the pursuit of knowledge. Prometheus's legacy endures, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can prevail.

1. Promethean Myth - Quest for knowledge and its tragic consequences - Victor Frankenstein's creation of the creature mirrors Prometheus's defiance of the gods.

2. Narcissus Myth - Pursuit of beauty and the illusion of self-love - The creature's rejection by society echoes Narcissus's obsession with his own beauty. 

3. Edenic Myth - Garden of innocence and the fall into sin - The creature's banishment from society mirrors Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden. 

The Narcissus Myth

The Narcissus myth, a tale of vanity and self-absorption, also resonates deeply within Frankenstein. The creature's first glimpse of its reflection in a lake mirrors Narcissus's infatuation with his own image. The creature's despair at its monstrous appearance echoes Narcissus's obsession with his beauty, highlighting the illusory nature of physical attractiveness and the dangers of self-absorption.

In the realm of Greek mythology, the tale of Narcissus and Echo stands as a timeless parable, weaving together themes of vanity, self-absorption, and the transformative power of love.Narcissus, a hunter of unparalleled beauty, was renowned for his captivating appearance. However, his vanity blinded him to the world around him, causing him to dismiss the affections of others and become enamoured with his own reflection.One fateful day, while traversing through a secluded forest, Narcissus stumbled upon a tranquil pool of water. As he gazed upon its surface, he became mesmerised by his own reflection, captivated by the flawless image staring back at him.The allure of his reflection proved irresistible, and Narcissus found himself drawn to the pool day after day. He would spend hours conversing with his reflection, pouring his heart out to the image that had captivated him so deeply.Obsessed with his own beauty, Narcissus neglected the world around him, dismissing the affections of his friends and family. His vanity consumed him, isolating him from those who truly cared for him.Unbeknownst to Narcissus, his actions had caught the attention of the nymph Echo, who was captivated by his beauty. However, a cruel curse had befallen Echo, silencing her voice and leaving her capable only of repeating the last words she heard.Echo, unable to express her feelings directly, watched from afar as Narcissus pined away for his own reflection. Her heart ached for him, but her curse prevented her from reaching out and offering solace.Driven by her longing, Echo finally gathered the courage to approach Narcissus, her voice echoing his words in a desperate attempt to connect with him. However, Narcissus, blinded by his self-absorption, dismissed her pleas, leaving Echo heartbroken and alone.Devastated by Narcissus's rejection, Echo's spirit began to fade, her voice growing fainter with each passing day. As she retreated into the depths of the forest, her voice echoed through the trees, a haunting reminder of her unrequited love.Narcissus, consumed by his obsession, continued to stare at his reflection, unable to break free from the spell it held over him. His body grew weak and frail, his obsession consuming him from within.In his final moments, Narcissus realised the folly of his self-absorption, recognizing the emptiness of his existence. As he gazed upon his reflection for the last time, he succumbed to his weakness, his life fading away like a wisp of smoke.The myth of Narcissus and Echo serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the perils of vanity and the transformative power of love. It urges us to look beyond the superficial and appreciate the true beauty that lies in connection and compassion.

The Edenic Myth

The Edenic myth, the biblical tale of Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Eden, finds echoes in Frankenstein's narrative. Victor's creation of the creature, a transgression of natural law, mirrors Eve's disobedience in eating the forbidden fruit. The creature's banishment from society, driven by fear and rejection, echoes Adam and Eve's expulsion from the Garden of Edenic.

In the heart of human imagination lies a tale of a lost paradise, a place of harmony, innocence, and perfect communion with nature. This mythical realm, known as Eden, symbolises our yearning for a world devoid of suffering, where humans and the Earth coexist in pristine balance.The most renowned depiction of Eden emerges from the Book of Genesis, the opening chapters of the Hebrew Bible. Within this holy text, the omnipotent God crafts the Garden of Eden, an idyllic haven where Adam and Eve, the first humans, reside in blissful simplicity. The Garden teems with lush vegetation and abundant nourishment, a testament to God's benevolent creation. Adam and Eve, imbued with free will, are granted the freedom to savour the Garden's bounty, except for the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.One fateful day, a cunning serpent, the embodiment of temptation, slithers into the Garden and entices Eve to taste the forbidden fruit. Eve succumbs to the serpent's allure, savouring the fruit's sweetness and awakening to the knowledge of right and wrong. She then shares the fruit with Adam, initiating their shared fall from grace.The consequences of their transgression are swift and severe. Adam and Eve, once naked and unashamed, now feel a sense of shame and guilt, covering their bodies in fig leaves. God, witnessing their disobedience, banishes them from Eden, condemning them to a life of toil and hardship. The Garden's gates are sealed, forever inaccessible to those who have tasted the forbidden fruit.Throughout the ages, the Edenic myth has been interpreted in myriad ways, reflecting the diverse perspectives of humanity. Some view it as a cautionary tale, emphasising the consequences of disobedience and the loss of innocence. Others perceive it as a symbol of human potential, highlighting the capacity for knowledge and self-awareness, even at the cost of separation from divine grace.The Edenic myth's themes transcend time and culture, resonating with individuals across the globe. It speaks to our deepest fears and aspirations, reminding us of our fragile existence and the importance of cherishing the blessings we have.

Themes of the Edenic Myth

The Loss of Innocence:The act of consuming the forbidden fruit signifies humanity's departure from a state of childlike purity and ignorance.

The Consequences of Sin: The banishment from Eden represents the punishment for disobedience and the introduction of suffering into the world.

The Importance of Free Will: The choice to eat the forbidden fruit underscores the significance of human agency and the capacity to make moral decisions.

The Possibility of Redemption:Despite their expulsion from Eden, Adam and Eve are not irrevocably lost. The promise of redemption and reconciliation with God offers hope for a future beyond sin.

The Edenic myth, with its multifaceted narratives and profound themes, remains a powerful force in human consciousness. It speaks to our enduring desire for a world of peace, harmony, and connection with the natural world. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the Edenic myth serves as a reminder of the fragility of our existence and the importance of striving for a world that reflects the ideals of this timeless archetype.

Connection with Frankenstein: 

Frankenstein and the tale of Narcissus and Echo share several thematic parallels. Both stories delve into the consequences of obsession, the dangers of self-absorption, and the pursuit of unattainable ideals.In Frankenstein, Dr. Victor Frankenstein, driven by his ambition to create life, transgresses natural boundaries, much like Narcissus's fixation on his reflection distorts his perception of reality. Both characters become isolated from society as their obsessions consume them.Like Narcissus, Frankenstein's creation, the monstrous creature, is shunned and rejected by society due to its unnatural appearance. The creature's longing for companionship and acceptance echoes Echo's desire for connection with Narcissus.

Despite their initial rejection, both Frankenstein and the creature ultimately recognize the destructive nature of their self-absorption. Frankenstein confronts the consequences of his actions and seeks redemption, while the creature learns compassion and empathy through its interactions with humanity.The parallels between Frankenstein and the myth of Narcissus and Echo highlight the dangers of unchecked ambition, the importance of empathy, and the need to balance our pursuit of knowledge with the recognition of human limitations. Both stories serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the consequences of neglecting the needs of others and the importance of appreciating the beauty that lies beyond the superficial.

Conclusion

By examining Frankenstein through the lens of mythology, we gain a deeper understanding of the novel's enduring themes, the complexities of human nature, and the consequences of our actions. The Promethean myth, the Narcissus myth, and the Edenic myth provide powerful symbols and narratives that illuminate the novel's core philosophical and psychological insights. Mary Shelley's Frankenstein stands as a testament to the power of myth to illuminate the human condition, offering profound reflections on the pursuit of knowledge, the nature of creation, and the delicate balance between ambition and responsibility.

• Refrences:- 

1. Bulfinch, Thomas. Bulfinch's Mythology. New York: Gramercy Books, 1998.

2. Murray, James. Prometheus: The Greek Myth of Human Rebellion. Amherst: University of Massachusetts Press, 2004.

3. Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. New York: Penguin Classics, 1996.