A Cultural Studies Approach to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (Thinking Activity)

A Cultural Studies Approach to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is much more than a tale of horror—it’s a reflection of the complex social, political, and cultural issues of her time. From its exploration of class struggle to its warnings about unchecked scientific ambition, the novel has become a timeless critique of human society. Let's dive into some key themes and how they remain relevant in today's world.

The Creature as Proletarian:

Mary Shelley lived during an era of social upheaval, shaped by the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and radical thinkers like her parents, Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin. The Creature in Frankenstein embodies the struggles of the oppressed, symbolizing the proletariat—the working class marginalized and abused by those in power.

The Creature begins as an innocent, yearning for love and acceptance. His rejection by Victor Frankenstein and society mirrors the dehumanization experienced by the lower classes. But as the Creature becomes vengeful, he represents the revolutionary energy that erupts when oppression becomes unbearable.

The Creature's paradoxical nature—both victim and aggressor—reflects societal fears of revolution. His plight evokes sympathy for the suffering masses while also embodying the elite's fear of uprising. In today’s world, this theme resonates in discussions about income inequality, labor rights, and social justice movements. Shelley's narrative urges us to consider: When we neglect the suffering of others, do we risk creating forces of destruction born out of despair?

A Race of Devils

The Creature’s portrayal also engages with the idea of the "Other." In 19th-century Europe, racial and imperial anxieties were on the rise, and Frankenstein reflects these fears. Victor’s treatment of the Creature mirrors the colonial mindset—creating life, exploiting it, and then abandoning it when it becomes inconvenient or threatening.

Shelley's narrative can be read as a critique of imperialism. The Creature’s exclusion and demonization echo the experiences of colonized peoples, who were often cast as "monsters" by European powers. Furthermore, the novel’s exploration of the "Other" remains relevant in today’s global conversations about race and privilege.

Shelley's narrative challenges us to rethink the legacy of colonialism and imperialism. Are we, like Victor, still creating “Others” in our societies? Do we exclude and demonize those who are different because of race, culture, or identity? The novel invites us to engage in self-reflection, urging us to foster inclusion and empathy rather than perpetuating fear and prejudice.

From Natural Philosophy to Cyborg

Shelley’s Frankenstein also anticipates modern debates about scientific ethics. In her time, “natural philosophy” was the term for what we now call science. Today, the themes of Frankenstein are startlingly relevant in discussions about genetic engineering, cloning, and artificial intelligence.

Victor’s quest for knowledge and his disregard for the consequences of his actions serve as a cautionary tale. He creates life but fails to take responsibility for it, leading to tragedy.

Modern advancements in biotechnology, such as CRISPR and AI, echo the novel's warnings. How far should humanity go in “playing God”? What responsibilities do scientists have when pushing the boundaries of knowledge? Shelley's message is clear: scientific ambition without ethical consideration can lead to devastating consequences. It’s a lesson we should heed as we navigate the challenges of modern science and technology.

 The Frankenpheme in Popular Culture

Timothy Morton coined the term “Frankenphemes” to describe how elements of Frankenstein have permeated modern culture. From movies to political discourse, the story continues to influence how we think about science, humanity, and morality.

First Film Adaptation and Popular Retellings

The first cinematic adaptation of Frankenstein was James Whale’s 1931 film, which introduced iconic elements like the Creature’s stitched appearance and lumbering gait. Since then, the story has been retold in countless ways—parodies like Young Frankenstein, modern updates like Ex Machina, and even political debates about "Frankenstein-like" experiments in science.

Why has Frankenstein had such a lasting impact? The novel’s themes are universal and adaptable. Its exploration of isolation, ambition, and humanity’s darker side resonates with every generation. Whether it’s AI developing autonomy or genetically engineered crops sparking controversy, the questions Shelley raised remain profoundly relevant.

Each adaptation reshapes the story to address contemporary anxieties. For example, Ex Machina critiques tech companies and their unchecked power, while Young Frankenstein uses humor to explore the absurdity of scientific hubris. These retellings allow us to revisit Shelley’s cautionary tale in new contexts, reminding us of the dangers of ambition without accountability.

Conclusion:

Frankenstein endures because it grapples with universal questions: Who is responsible for the marginalized? How far can humanity push the boundaries of knowledge before crossing ethical lines? And what does it mean to create and reject life?

Shelley’s masterpiece continues to inspire because it doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it challenges us to confront our fears, ambitions, and prejudices. Whether through the lens of class struggle, racial anxieties, or scientific ethics, Frankenstein remains a mirror reflecting the best and worst of humanity.

Thank You!!