Summary of Frankenstein's Narrative Structure
The intricate narrative of "Frankenstein" unfolds through a complex frame story, utilizing the epistolary form to create layers of storytelling that draw the reader deeper into its chilling tale. Set in the 18th century, as evidenced by the dating of the letters to "17--", the novel begins with the correspondence of Captain Robert Walton to his sister, Margaret Walton Saville.
Robert Walton, introduced as a failed writer, embarks on an ambitious expedition to the North Pole. His journey, driven by a desire to expand scientific knowledge, serves as a parallel to Victor Frankenstein's own ill-fated quest for discovery. This parallel is not coincidental, as it underscores one of the novel's central themes: the potential dangers of unchecked scientific ambition.
Highlight: The use of a frame story and epistolary format allows Shelley to present multiple perspectives and add depth to the narrative, enhancing the story's realism and emotional impact.
As Walton's expedition progresses, a series of extraordinary events unfold. His crew observes a dog sled driven by a figure of gigantic stature, foreshadowing the appearance of Frankenstein's creation. Shortly after, they rescue a man near death from exposure: Victor Frankenstein himself. This encounter sets the stage for the main narrative, as Frankenstein, recognizing in Walton the same dangerous obsession that led to his own downfall, decides to recount his life's tragic story as a cautionary tale.
Definition: Frame story - A literary technique where a main narrative is presented through another story that provides the context for the central narrative.
Victor Frankenstein's narrative, told to Walton and relayed to the reader through Walton's letters to his sister, forms the core of the novel. This structure allows Shelley to explore themes of isolation, ambition, and the consequences of playing god through multiple lenses, adding complexity and depth to the story.
Example: The use of multiple narrators (Walton, Frankenstein, and later, the creature) in "Frankenstein" influenced later works in Gothic and horror literature, such as Bram Stoker's "Dracula," which also employs epistolary techniques and multiple viewpoints.
The novel's innovative structure not only adds to its narrative complexity but also serves to heighten the sense of mystery and dread that permeates the story. By framing Frankenstein's tale within Walton's arctic expedition, Shelley creates a sense of isolation and impending doom that mirrors the emotional journey of her characters.
