Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, published in 1818, tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who is consumed by the desire to unlock the secrets of life and create a living being. Victor succeeds in his experiment, but is horrified by the monstrous creature he has brought to life. The novel explores themes of ambition, scientific responsibility, and the consequences of playing god.
One way in which Mary Shelley shows her concern about the emerging industrial revolution in Frankenstein is through Victor Frankenstein himself. Victor can be seen as a representation of the dangers of unchecked scientific progress during Shelley's time. His ambition and desire to create life reflect the scientific advances of the industrial revolution, where new technologies were being developed at a rapid pace without fully understanding their potential consequences. Victor's obsession with his experiment leads to the creation of a monstrous being that wreaks havoc and destruction, echoing the unintended consequences of industrialization.
Furthermore, the novel's setting and atmosphere also reflect Shelley's concerns about the industrial revolution. Much of the story takes place in bleak, desolate landscapes such as the Swiss Alps and the Arctic, which can be seen as a contrast to the burgeoning industrial cities of the time. These wild, untamed environments symbolize the dangers of unchecked scientific progress, as well as the loss of nature in the face of industrialization. The creature itself is a product of industrial processes, assembled from various body parts and brought to life through scientific experimentation, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of technology and progress.
Additionally, the novel explores the themes of isolation and alienation, which can be linked to the societal changes brought about by the industrial revolution. Victor's creation is shunned by society and ultimately becomes a tragic figure, rejected by his creator and unable to find acceptance among humans. This can be seen as a commentary on the dehumanizing effects of industrialization, which led to widespread social upheaval, urbanization, and displacement of traditional communities. The creature's experiences of loneliness and rejection mirror the alienation felt by many people during the industrial revolution, as they struggled to adapt to the rapidly changing world around them.
Overall, Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked scientific progress and the dehumanizing effects of industrialization. Through the character of Victor Frankenstein and his creation, Shelley explores the ethical implications of scientific experimentation and the potential consequences of playing god. The novel reflects Shelley's concerns about the impact of the industrial revolution on society and the environment, presenting a stark warning about the dangers of losing touch with the natural world in the pursuit of progress.
