Mary Shelley 
Frankenstein 
The Original 1818 ‘Uncensored’ Edition

Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein’ is a seminal work of gothic fiction that explores the boundaries of science and humanity. Through the story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation, Shelley delves into themes of ambition, responsibility, solitude, and the consequences of playing god. The novel is written in an epistolary format, utilizing multiple narrators to create a complex and atmospheric tale. Set in the Romantic era, ‘Frankenstein’ reflects the anxieties and moral dilemmas of the time, questioning the ethics of scientific progress and the pursuit of knowledge at any cost. Shelley’s eloquent prose and vivid imagery captivate readers, drawing them into a world of creation and destruction. Mary Shelley, the daughter of renowned intellectuals Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin, was influenced by the philosophical debates of her time, as well as personal tragedies, which inspired her to craft a story that continues to resonate with modern audiences. I highly recommend ‘Frankenstein’ to those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature and the power of literature to provoke thought and reflection.

Giới thiệu về tác giả

Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797–1851) was an English novelist, short story writer, dramatist, essayist, biographer, and travel writer. She is best known for her classic Gothic novel, ‘Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, ‘ published in 1818. Shelley was born to philosopher and journalist William Godwin and famed feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, although her mother died shortly after her birth. Her upbringing in this household of intellectuals significantly influenced her literary development. In 1814, she commenced a tumultuous relationship with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, whom she married in 1816 after his wife’s death. The idea for Frankenstein was born in 1816 while she was staying near Geneva with Percy, Lord Byron, and other literary figures. They decided to have a competition to write the best horror story, which led Mary to conceive the idea for what would become her most famous work. Frankenstein is notable not only for its famous monster but also for its exploration of human nature, creation, and responsibility, making it one of the earliest examples of science fiction. Though Frankenstein is her most famous work, Shelley’s writing career was prolific, producing novels like ‘The Last Man’ and travel writings such as ‘History of a Six Weeks’ Tour.’ Her literary style combines elements of Romantic and Gothic literature, focusing on the role of the individual in society and emotions. Mary Shelley’s influence on literature is immeasurable; her work not only launched a new genre but also continually sparks discussions on science, ethics, and the nature of creation.