Mary Shelley, born August 1797, was an English author best known for her novel and playwright, Frankenstein. Frankenstein first gained traction when it was entered into a young-writers contest, were novelists had to compete to write the best horror story; and Shelley’s, once published, became immensely successful. People feared Frankenstein because it was often though something similar could take place in real life, and the way it manages to cover dark and serious topics captivated many.
Frankenstein however, is also known for its much deeper meaning. At the beginning on the story the create is innocent, and means no harm. However, after being exposed to the harsh world and wrong doings of Victor, the creature becomes evil, and learns from what he’s seen. Shelley’s story helped to reflect on society, and how man can be just as evil if not more than an ‘ugly beast’ and how strong our influence can truly be on others. Even to someone as innocent and oblivious as the creature.
Taylor's Document Diary - VCE Theatre Studies 2020 