If the myth of Frankenstein is still known in popular culture today, it is because it is considered a precursor of science fiction. But who inspired the character of Frankenstein?
The work Frankenstein or the modern Prometheus was published in 1818. It first appeared anonymously, but its author Mary Shelley soon emerged from the shadows. Indeed, published at only 500 copies, Mary Shelley’s novel subsequently became a true masterpiece. Even today, his fictional character Frankenstein is the subject of film adaptations, and his costume is still released for Halloween. But what inspired Mary Shelley to create the character of Frankenstein?
Novel author: who created Dr. Frankenstein’s creature? Origins
Mary Shelley is none other than the author of the novel “Frankenstein or the modern Prometheus“. Its history mixes horror and science fictionwhich proves Mary Shelley’s imagination. Born in 1797 in London, the author grew up in a family that believed in free love and equality between men and women. At that time, these subjects still remained taboo. However, Mary grew up with her father, her mother having died during childbirth. During his childhood, his father introduced him to different worlds, ranging from politics to intellectuals. It was in this environment that Mary met the poet and philosopher Percy Shelley. Their story led them to Lake Geneva. And it would be here that the character of Frankenstein would have been imagined and created.
Doctor Frankenstein: was he inspired by a dream of Mary Shelley?
During a stormy evening on the shores of Lake Geneva in 1816, the Shelley couple were accompanied by a friend, Lord Byron. Together, they challenged themselves to improvise stories about ghosts and imaginary creatures. For Mary Shelley, the exercise was complicated, but she did not give up. To meet the challenge, she decided instead to start writing a novel relating to a horror story. It is inspired by the life of the German theologian, doctor and alchemist named Johann Conrad Dippel. The latter was born in 1673 in Frankenstein Castle, and he was a great source of inspiration for Mary Shelley. This is how his science fiction novel “Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus” saw the light of day two years later.
Why is Victor Frankenstein a monster?
Mary Shelley’s novel tells the story of a young Swiss scientist named Victor Frankenstein, who wishes to create a living being himself. To do this, he assembles pieces of flesh from corpses. However, Victor Frankenstein, although he succeeded in creating life, is horrified by the appearance of his creation. He considers her a monster, and he decides to abandon her, but his creation is gifted with great intelligence and even emotions. She therefore wishes to take revenge for the abandonment of Victor Frankenstein, and for the persecution she suffered from society. Within the novel, Mary Shelley very often mentions a monster or a creature to designate the creation of Victor Frankenstein.
Sources
This may also interest you :
How did Frankenstein inspire science?
Cinema: This science fiction film would be the most realistic according to NASA!
There is a link between The Aristocats and Pulp Fiction!
When reality exceeds fiction: 5 very real crimes inspired by cult films
Interstellar, Star Trek: is the representation of black holes in fiction realistic?
Like in science fiction films, astronauts will soon be able to talk to their rocket
