Frankenstein Key Theme: Science and Creation (AQA GCSE English Literature): Revision Note

Science and creation timeline  

 The theme of science and creation in key chapters of Frankenstein:

What are the elements of science and creation in Frankenstein?

• Playing God: Victor’s obsession and relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge leads to him defying the natural order: “It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn”. His ambition is also linked to a desire to gain power and recognition and it is this wish to play God that results in his downfall. His actions demonstrate how dangerous and unnatural scientific experiments may lead to chaos and despair.

• The creator’s responsibility: Victor brings the creature to life and expects it to “bless” him as its creator. However, he immediately rejects and abandons his creation as after he “had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished”. This rejection leads to the creature’s suffering and eventual vengeance. Through Victor, Shelley explores the responsibility that comes with scientific discovery and the moral duty of the creator in nurturing their creation.

• Moral and ethical questions: Through Victor and the creature, Shelley raises moral and ethical questions about creation, responsibility and revenge. For instance, the creature’s desire for revenge reveals how suffering and isolation can lead to evil. Similarly, Victor’s pursuit of knowledge results in creating life through science without fully considering the consequences.

The impact of science and creation on characters

Why does Shelley use the theme of science and creation in her novella?

1.  Setting and atmosphere 

• Establishes science and creation as powerful but dangerous forces which may defy the natural order

• Creates an atmosphere of mystery and fear of the unknown

2. Plot driver 

• Drives key events as Victor’s obsession with creating life leads to tragic consequences for him and his loved ones

3. Audience appeal 

• Engages readers by exploring the Gothic and Romantic fascination with scientific exploration

4. Narrative device   

• Highlights the paradox of creation as both a source of life and destruction

Exam-style questions on the theme of science and creation

Try planning a response to the following essay questions as part of your revision of the theme of science and creation: 

• How does Shelley explore the consequences of scientific ambition in Frankenstein? (You could start with Victor’s obsession with creating life, which leads to his isolation and guilt.)

• How does Shelley show the problems of creating life in the novella? (You could start with Victor bringing the creature to life and then abandoning it, exploring how he ultimately avoids his responsibilities as a creator.)