Settings (Frankenstein)

Locations and Journeys

Why do you think Shelley makes use of such a range of settings?

• Pivotal to understand novel and its impact
• The question of ethics and the boundaries of scientific research – the journey is a metaphor for the quest for knowledge

Why is it important that the events of the novel take place in such geographically diverse locations?

• Panoramic view of early nineteenth Century Europe
• Landscapes are in sympathy with Gothic traditions – pathetic fallacy
• Contrasts made between conventional nature and wild landscapes
• Links with the ‘journey’ of the narrative

What could these locations symbolise about the characters in the text?

• The tormented psychology of Victor Frankenstein and that of the monster he creates – The Mountains of the mind
• Walton and Frankenstein are similar characters – both on journeys and both lonely in pursuit of their interests - The Icy Wilderness of the pole is a powerful image of the psychology of both men
• Links to theme of isolation