Names and Identity of the Monster
– Mary Shelley’s novel never gives the monster a name.
– The monster refers to himself as a monster and uses various other terms to describe himself.
– The creature’s namelessness became a central part of stage adaptations.
– Within a decade of publication, the name ‘Frankenstein’ was used to refer to the creature.
– Modern adaptations have given the creature different names, such as Deucalion and Proteus.
Plot of Shelley’s Frankenstein
– Victor Frankenstein builds the creature in his attic after discovering a scientific principle.
– Frankenstein is disgusted by his creation and flees from it.
– The creature finds solace with a blind man and his family, learning to speak and becoming educated.
– The creature seeks revenge against Frankenstein for abandoning him.
– The creature frames Justine Moritz for a murder and asks Frankenstein to build him a female mate.
Popularity and Adaptations in Media
– Frankensteins monster has become iconic in popular culture.
– The monster has been featured in films, television series, merchandise, and video games.
– Boris Karloff’s portrayals in the 1931 film ‘Frankenstein’ and its sequels are the most recognized versions.
– The creature’s identity is sometimes referred to as Frankenstein, although this is technically incorrect.
– Modern adaptations have given the creature different names, such as Deucalion and Proteus.
Comparison to Prometheus
– Shelley compares Victor Frankenstein to the mythological character Prometheus.
– Prometheus also created humans and gave them fire.
– The monster occupies a border territory between protagonist and antagonist characteristics.
– The monster’s attempts to fit into human society are met with rejection.
– The monster seeks revenge against Frankenstein for his loneliness and mistreatment.
Influence, Adaptations, and Portrayals
– Shelley’s novel was adapted for the stage in the 19th century.
– The Universal film series starring Boris Karloff popularized the creature as Frankenstein.
– Modern adaptations have given the creature different names, such as Deucalion and Proteus.
– Dean Koontz’s novel ‘Frankenstein’ and Showtime’s ‘Penny Dreadful’ offer different naming possibilities for the creature.
– The creature’s name has been a subject of debate and interpretation in various adaptations.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankenstein%27s_monster