The History of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Discovering the Origins of a Classic.

Let's talk about the history of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Three years before Frankenstein was published, Mary Shelley traveled through Europe. During her time in Germany, she passed near Frankenstein Castle. This castle may have influenced her novel. It was home to Johann Conrad Dippel, an alchemist who created a tar-like substance called Dippel’s Oil.

Folklore about Dippel’s experiments may have sparked ideas in Shelley, but she never mentioned this in her journals. The history surrounding the castle is steeped in mystery, adding to the allure of her story.

Shelley and her fiancé, Percy Bysshe Shelley, later traveled to Geneva, Switzerland. Percy was a radical poet, though he was not famous during his lifetime. He and Mary fell in love in secret. His estranged wife was still alive but in a troubled state. Percy eventually left her after her tragic suicide.

In Geneva, they were joined by literary figures such as Lord Byron, Claire Clairmont, and John Polidori. The group found themselves trapped indoors due to relentless rain. In this environment, they decided to hold a horror writing contest. Mary wrote Frankenstein, while Polidori crafted The Vampyre, which would later predates Dracula by several decades.

Shelley's novel employs a frame story to explore profound themes. These themes include loneliness, obsession, and the complex nature of humanity. It is considered one of the first science fiction novels. Surprisingly, it has remained in print since its original release in 1818, highlighting its enduring impact.

Upon its release, some reviewers recognized the unique qualities of the writing. They noted the “feminine” aspects of the narrative. This acknowledgment was significant at a time when female authors often struggled to gain recognition.

Early stage adaptations of Frankenstein quickly followed its publication. Notable works include Presumption (1823), The Man and The Monster (1826), and a musical burlesque that surfaced in 1887. These adaptations helped introduce the story to broader audiences, diverging from the original text in various ways.

The first film adaptations began in 1910. However, it was Universal Studios’ 1931 version, starring the legendary Boris Karloff, that became the most iconic interpretation. While this adaptation based itself on a 1927 play rather than Shelley's novel, it effectively cemented Frankenstein's place in popular culture.

Some scenes from the film faced censorship in certain states. One notable example is a scene involving a child's drowning, which was banned in areas like Kansas. Initially, this state sought to cut over half the film due to its disturbing elements.

After the success of Dracula (1930), Universal decided to produce Frankenstein. They offered the role of the monster to Bela Lugosi, who famously turned it down after unsatisfactory makeup tests. This decision is often referred to as a significant career mistake.

Nevertheless, the film launched a franchise that included classics like Bride of Frankenstein and Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. These adaptations expanded the universe of Frankenstein, showcasing the creature in various new lights, thus enriching its legacy.

Mary Shelley, just 18 at the time of writing, faced underestimation. Yet, she managed to produce a timeless masterpiece that remains powerful and relevant. Her work is foundational not just to literature but also to film.

Frankenstein continues to inspire countless adaptations, discussions, and studies. The creature, once seen as a horrific being, has evolved into a symbol of humanity's struggles. Whether discussing themes of isolation, the quest for knowledge, or societal rejection, the story resonates deeply in every generation.

Through her journey and creativity, Mary Shelley has left an indelible mark on the world, reminding us that great stories can emerge from personal experience and the depths of imagination.

In exploring the history of Frankenstein, we uncover a tale that is as multifaceted as the characters it presents. The novel's exploration of the darker sides of human nature remains a gripping read to this day. It appeals to both fans of horror and those intrigued by the moral implications of scientific advancement.