Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is often celebrated as a foundational text of both science fiction and Gothic literature. But one aspect that deserves more attention is the concept of defamiliarization. This literary technique, which involves presenting familiar objects or concepts in an unfamiliar way, invites readers to see them from a fresh perspective. Shelley employs this method in various ways throughout her novel, prompting us to reconsider everything from humanity and creation to societal norms. In this essay, I will explore key examples of defamiliarization in “Frankenstein,” examining how they contribute to the novel’s enduring themes and emotional depth.
The Creature: A New Perspective on Humanity
One of the most striking examples of defamiliarization in “Frankenstein” is the portrayal of Victor Frankenstein’s creature. When we first encounter him through Victor’s horrified eyes, he is described as a grotesque monster—an abomination that inspires fear and revulsion. However, as the story unfolds, we start to see him not just as a mere monster but as a complex being struggling for acceptance and understanding. Shelley crafts moments that humanize him; for instance, when he observes a family from afar and learns about love, companionship, and language.
This shift forces readers to confront their biases about what it means to be ‘human.’ Instead of viewing the creature purely through the lens of horror or monstrosity, Shelley asks us to empathize with his plight. This process encourages us to question societal definitions of beauty and morality: what does it mean if society rejects someone based solely on their appearance? In this way, Shelley uses defamiliarization not just for shock value but as a means for social critique.
The Role of Nature
Another fascinating area where defamiliarization appears is in Shelley’s depiction of nature. Early on in the novel, Victor Frankenstein finds solace in natural landscapes—a common trope in Romantic literature. Yet Shelley twists this idea by juxtaposing moments of sublime beauty with feelings of dread and foreboding associated with his scientific pursuits. For example, while Victor might find peace walking through serene mountains or lush valleys after committing monstrous acts like creating life or abandoning his creature, these landscapes also become sites for confrontation with his own inner turmoil.
This duality forces readers to rethink our relationship with nature itself. Instead of being merely a backdrop for human action or emotion—as typically seen in romanticism—nature becomes an active participant in Victor’s moral decline and existential crisis. It pushes him into moments where he must reckon with his hubris; therefore nature transcends its conventional role as simply beautiful scenery—it becomes something almost alive that reflects human emotion back at us.
The Theme of Isolation
Isolation is another theme profoundly explored through defamiliarization within “Frankenstein.” Both Victor and his creature experience profound loneliness—yet they express it differently due largely because society shapes their responses uniquely based upon external perceptions shaped by physical appearances versus intellectual capabilities.
For instance while we might expect sympathy towards an abandoned child-like figure (the creature), Shelley’s choice not only evokes pity but also reveals how isolation can lead individuals down dark paths filled with rage & resentment against those who shun them outcasts instead providing refuge & support structures necessary during vulnerable times This flips traditional expectations upside down! Readers are left contemplating whether rejection leads inevitably toward violence when deprived access needed connections preventing hostile behaviors from surfacing until it’s too late.
The Danger of Unchecked Ambition
Shelley also utilizes defamiliarization regarding ambition itself—a trait often revered yet here depicted ambivalently throughout various characters’ journeys .Victor embodies relentless pursuit knowledge at any cost (think Faustian archetype), making questionable choices while disregarding ethical implications surrounding bringing life forth without considering consequences behind such grand undertakings .
This creates dissonance between typical narratives celebrating genius innovators working tirelessly toward advancements progress versus underlying horrors stemming unintended outcomes resulting failures pursuing absolute power over creation—which ultimately leads downfall While ambitious scientists inspire admiration typically seen academic settings—Shelley reminds audiences caution necessary surrounding unchecked ambitions leading disaster if ignored entirely!
Conclusion: A Lens Through Which We See Our World
In summary , Mary Shelley masterfully employs defamiliarization throughout “Frankenstein” , challenging preconceived notions around humanity , nature , isolation & ambition alike . By presenting familiar concepts bizarrely—even grotesquely—she urges us reflect deeply into our society ’s values beliefs traditions affecting perceptions others facing rejection amid struggles identity formation within communities formed around superficial ideals rather than genuine connections fostering growth understanding empathy amongst fellow beings navigating complexities existence together! Through these examples rich layers meaning unravel giving rise thoughtful discourse topics still relevant today!
- Shelley,Mary.Wollstonecraft.Frankenstein.Penguin Classics.,1994
- Baldick,Rick.Victorian Gothic Fiction.Anthem Press.,2009
- Klein,Kathleen.Feminist Readings Of Frankenstein.Victorian Literature And Culture.Vol 32,no 1(Cambridge UP).2018
- Punter,D.J.Gothic Literature.Harlow: Longman Group UK Limited.,1996
- Lodge,David.The Art Of Fiction.London: Penguin Books Ltd.,1997
