In a world where countless squeakquels, remakes, and re-imaginings are being made every year, it seems the one and only place for original content is the past. One great example is Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.” The book of course, not those movies. But everyone remembers Frankenstein, right? The movie about a mad scientist who creates a brain-dead, grunting, diabolical monster who wrecks havoc on the villagers but turns out is just misunderstood. Those movies (and sequels) have very little to do with the source material. There is no abnormal brain, no mad scientist, no angry mob of villagers. Instead there is a far more interesting plot.

Written as part a challenge to create the best horror story, “Frankenstein” begins with a framing device of sailor Robert Walton writing letters to his sister. The letters detail his trek to the Arctic north and his meeting of a very troubled Victor Frankenstein. From there the story is narrated by Victor explaining his happy childhood, his creation of a horrifying creature, and then the Creature exacting revenge upon Frankenstein. While considered scary at the time, it’s not even a little bit scary and instead it becomes a drama.

This story is far removed from the movies and is, in fact, a deep and philosophical piece of literature. As previously noted, there is no abnormal brain rendering the creature a drooling grunt. Instead, the Creature starts with the mind of newborn but later learns how to read, write, and speak by secretly observing a family. The Creature becomes very smart and analytical, reflecting upon his existence and questioning what will become of him and the human species. Victor Frankenstein becomes increasingly haunted and depressed each chapter after he creates the Creature. As the novel progresses, Victor is depicted as a destroyed man, forced to live with what he has done, and without the ability to confide in anyone else. He curses the heavens, science, the Creature, and finally himself.
“Frankenstein” may have been written nearly 200 years ago, but it still retains powerful messages. Are we going too far with science? Are some things best left unknown or not utilized? Whether you agree or not, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is riveting tale of Gothic suspense and philosophy.