Frankenstein's regret and the scientific revolution
I can explain how Shelley uses 'Frankenstein' to express her own views towards the Scientific Revolution.
Frankenstein's regret and the scientific revolution
I can explain how Shelley uses 'Frankenstein' to express her own views towards the Scientific Revolution.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Many critics read 'Frankenstein' as a criticism of the Scientific Revolution.
- The Scientific Revolution ushered in a new era, where assumptions about the natural world were questioned.
- Some saw the progress of science as limitless and, in some cases, immoral and unethical.
- The novel's alternative title is 'The Modern Prometheus' suggesting that, like Prometheus, Frankenstein stole from God.
- 'Frankenstein' could be a warning about what happens when science is not paired with individual moral conscience.
Common misconception
Students think that Shelley was opposed to scientific advancement.
Shelley was not opposed to scientific advancement; she was opposed to unethical and limitless scientific practices.
Keywords
Scientific Revolution - A series of significant events that occurred in the 16th and 17th centuries that led to a shift in people’s beliefs about nature.
To criticise - To express disapproval of someone or something.
Emergence - Something becoming known or starting to exist.
To contradict - To go against something that someone else has said.
Moral - Concerned with the principles of right and wrong behaviour.
Equipment
You will need access to the extract from Chapter 4 of Shelley's 'Frankenstein' which can be found in the additional materials.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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