Monsters of Horror 22: Frankenstein’s Monster
Ever since Mary Shelley first penned “Frankenstein” in 1818, the name has conjured images of a lumbering, groaning creature with bolts in his neck. However, there’s a twist: Frankenstein is not the monster, but the scientist who created him. This common misconception is just the beginning of the fascinating story behind one of literature’s most iconic figures.
Frankenstein’s Monster, often simply referred to as “the Monster,” has captivated audiences for over two centuries.
His story is one of creation and abandonment, beauty and monstrosity, and ultimately, the quest for identity and belonging. So, why does this creature, born from the imagination of a young woman during a stormy night in Switzerland, continue to intrigue us? Let’s delve into the origins, character, and cultural impact of Frankenstein’s Monster.
Origins of Frankenstein’s Monster
The story of Frankenstein’s Monster begins with its creator, Mary Shelley. At just 18 years old, Shelley found herself spending a rainy summer in 1816 at Lake Geneva with her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, Lord Byron, and others.
To pass the time, Byron proposed a ghost story writing contest. Out of this contest emerged the bones of what would become “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus.”
The novel tells the tale of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist obsessed with uncovering the secrets of life. Through dark and unorthodox experiments, he succeeds in animating a being assembled from body parts scavenged from graves. However, horrified by his own creation, Frankenstein abandons the Monster, setting off a chain of tragic events.
From its inception, “Frankenstein” tapped into the fears and fascinations of the era, blending Gothic horror with early science fiction. Shelley’s tale of hubris and unintended consequences resonates with readers even today, offering a profound reflection on human nature and our relentless pursuit of knowledge.
The Monster’s Character and Appearance
In Mary Shelley’s novel, the Monster is a far cry from the flat-headed, green-skinned brute popularised by Hollywood.
Instead, he is described as an eight-foot-tall being with yellow skin, watery eyes, and flowing black hair. Though grotesque in appearance, the Monster possesses superhuman strength and agility, coupled with a remarkable intellect.
Many misconceptions about the Monster’s appearance come from early film adaptations, particularly the 1931 movie “Frankenstein” starring Boris Karloff. Karloff’s portrayal, complete with neck bolts and a flat head, became the iconic image of the Monster. Despite these visual differences, Karloff’s performance captured the essence of Shelley’s character—both terrifying and tragically sympathetic.
In the novel, the Monster is not a mindless brute but a deeply complex character. He begins life with childlike innocence, learning to speak and read by observing a family from a distance. Despite his best efforts to integrate and seek companionship, he is repeatedly met with fear and violence due to his appearance. This rejection fuels his transformation from a gentle being into one capable of vengeful acts.
The Monster’s eloquence and emotional depth are often overshadowed by his monstrous exterior. His speeches in the novel reveal a creature capable of profound thought, expressing his anguish and longing for acceptance. This duality makes him one of literature’s most compelling figures, a mirror reflecting the darkest aspects of human nature.
Themes and Symbolism
“Frankenstein” is rich with themes that continue to resonate. At its core, the novel explores the responsibilities that come with creation. Victor Frankenstein’s refusal to care for his creation parallels the neglect and abandonment that many feel in a rapidly advancing world.
Shelley’s narrative warns of the dangers of playing God, a theme that remains relevant in contemporary discussions about genetic engineering and artificial intelligence.
The search for identity is another critical theme. The Monster’s journey is a poignant exploration of self-discovery and the human need for connection. Despite his monstrous form, he yearns for the same things we all do: love, companionship, and a sense of belonging. His failure to achieve these drives him to desperate actions, highlighting the consequences of isolation and societal rejection.
The Monster also symbolises the outsider, the marginalised, and those judged solely on their appearance. His existence challenges readers to question their own prejudices and the societal norms that dictate who is deemed worthy of acceptance. In today’s world, where issues of identity and belonging are more prominent than ever, the Monster’s plight feels strikingly relevant.
Frankenstein’s Monster in Popular Culture
Over the years, Frankenstein’s Monster has undergone numerous transformations in film, television, and other media. From Boris Karloff’s iconic portrayal to more modern interpretations, the Monster has become a staple of horror and science fiction genres.
Early films like “Bride of Frankenstein” (1935) expanded on the Monster’s story, adding layers of depth to his character. In recent years, the Monster has appeared in everything from comedic parodies to animated features, showcasing his versatility as a cultural icon. Each adaptation brings a new perspective, but the core elements of tragedy and humanity remain intact.
Actors like Robert De Niro, who played the Monster in the 1994 film “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein,” and Benedict Cumberbatch, who portrayed him in a stage adaptation, have brought their unique interpretations to the role. These portrayals emphasize the Monster’s enduring appeal and the timeless nature of his story.
Conclusion
Frankenstein’s Monster, with his tragic origins and profound complexity, continues to captivate and inspire. Mary Shelley’s creation has transcended its Gothic roots to become a symbol of the human condition, reflecting our fears, desires, and the eternal quest for understanding and acceptance.
As we revisit the tale of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation, we are reminded of the timeless themes that make this story so compelling. The Monster’s legacy lives on, urging us to look beyond appearances and embrace the humanity that lies within us all.
So, next time you think of Frankenstein, think about the true essence of the Monster—an unforgettable figure who, despite his fearsome exterior, embodies the deepest struggles of the human soul. And if you haven’t already, pick up a copy of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and experience the story firsthand. You might just find yourself sympathising with the creature who only wanted to be loved.
Remember: Frankenstein is not the name of the monster, it is the name of the man who created the monster. In the novel, Victor Frankenstein refers to his creation on several occasions where he employs names such as; the “creature”, “fiend”, “spectre”, “wretch”, “devil”, “thing”, “being”, and “ogre”.
© Colin Lawson Books