Introduction
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is often hailed as a pioneering work in the science fiction genre, but its implications extend far beyond just the realm of horror and scientific exploration. When we delve into the text through a feminist lens, we uncover layers of societal commentary about gender roles, expectations, and the consequences of male dominance. It is particularly interesting to note that while Shelley critiques patriarchal structures, she simultaneously portrays female characters who are victims of these very systems. This essay aims to explore how “Frankenstein” reflects both feminist and sexist perspectives, highlighting its complex portrayal of gender dynamics in early 19th-century society.
The Absence of Female Agency
One striking feature of “Frankenstein” is the near-complete absence of female agency within the narrative. The primary characters—Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation—are overwhelmingly male. Women like Elizabeth Lavenza, Victor’s fiancée, and Justine Moritz serve as passive figures whose fates hinge entirely on the decisions made by men. Elizabeth’s role can be seen as emblematic of traditional female archetypes: she is nurturing, supportive, and ultimately becomes a victim because she lacks autonomy over her own life.
This absence raises crucial questions about how women were perceived during Shelley’s time. They were often relegated to subordinate roles within both family structures and society at large. In portraying Elizabeth primarily as an object of desire rather than a fully fleshed-out character with her own ambitions or desires, Shelley underscores how women’s identities were frequently defined in relation to men.
The Consequences of Male Hubris
Victor Frankenstein embodies characteristics that many would associate with toxic masculinity: ambition unchecked by moral considerations, emotional repression, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge without regard for its consequences. His obsessive quest to conquer death leads him down a path that not only destroys his life but also endangers those he loves. In this sense, Victor represents an archetypal figure whose hubris has devastating repercussions—not just for himself but for all around him.
Interestingly enough, it is Victor’s failures that ultimately catalyze tragedy in “Frankenstein.” The monster he creates seeks companionship but is met with fear and hatred instead. This reinforces another critical point: when men fail to recognize their responsibilities or embrace empathy towards others—especially women—they perpetuate cycles of pain and violence. In contrast to Victor’s active destruction lies an implicit call for nurturing qualities traditionally associated with femininity—a stark critique aimed at patriarchal ideals that prioritize ambition over compassion.
The Tragic Fate of Female Characters
The few women in “Frankenstein” face tragic fates largely orchestrated by male characters’ decisions or societal norms they cannot escape from. Take Justine Moritz; her wrongful execution serves as one example among many where innocent women pay dearly for men’s actions—essentially sacrificed on the altar of male pride and guilt.
This theme resonates profoundly when considering how women have historically been scapegoated in various societies across time periods—from witch hunts to modern instances where women’s lives are upended due merely to allegations or suspicions stemming from male behavior.
A Critique Wrapped in Compassion
Despite these grim portrayals, it’s essential not to view Shelley solely as critiquing women’s positions without acknowledging her underlying compassion towards them. By showcasing their suffering within her narrative framework—a framework heavily dominated by masculine ambition—Shelley invites readers (particularly male ones) to reflect upon these disparities critically.
This allows us room for interpretation: could it be that Mary Shelley used these tragic female figures deliberately? Perhaps she intended them as poignant reminders that true strength lies not only in ambition but also emotional intelligence—the very qualities denied them throughout history?
A Complex Legacy
In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” operates on multiple levels; while it undoubtedly illuminates issues surrounding patriarchy through its depiction (or lack thereof) regarding female agency—the author crafts an intricate tapestry filled with complexity rather than flat caricatures alone.
This dual perspective renders “Frankenstein” relevant even today—as discussions around feminism continue evolving alongside critiques concerning masculinity remain pertinent globally.
References
- Shelley, Mary. “Frankenstein.” Lackingtons, Hughes & Co., 1818.
- Bottiglia-Bukowski T., & Hurst M.L., eds.”Feminist Approaches to Literature.” Routledge Press 2020.
- Punter D., “The Gothic.” Blackwell Publishing 2011.
- Cohen J.J., & Regan S.M., eds., “The Cambridge Companion to Mary Shelley.” Cambridge University Press 2009.
