This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 103 literature of Romantics , sem- 1 , 2023.
* Table of contents:
- Personal Information
- Assignment Details
- Introduction
- Background Information
- Comparison of Key Elements
- Impact and Legacy
- Conclusion
- References
* Personal Information:
- Name: Maruniya Jay B
- Batch: M.A sem 1
- Enrollment No: 5108230027
- Roll No: 15
- Email ID: maruniyajay2018@gmail.com
* Assignment Details:
- Topic: A Comparative Analysis of " Frankenstein" and " Dracula"
- Paper and subject code: 103- Literature of Romantics ( 22394)
- Submitted To: smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavanagar
- Date of submission:01/December/2023
* Introduction:
- Frankenstein
About the author:
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley was born in London in1797 and died in 1851. She was the daughter of William Godwin and Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, two great intellectual rebels of the time. Eleven days after her birth, her mother died leaving her father to look after Mary and her sister. Mary developed an intense affection for her father and he for her, but things became tense when Godwin remarried as Mary and her stepmother did not have a good relationship. Mary never had a formal
education but learned from the books that she found in her father’s library.
In 1814 she met the young poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and went with him to France. They married in 1816, after Shelley’s first wife killed herself.Theyhad a happy but short marriage, and on her husband’s death in 1822, she returned to England with her son, Percy. There she published many of his poetry and prose works, adding to these her own notes.
Frankenstein:
Frankenstein is a Critique of science and its experiments. It is a thoughtful comment on the terrifying consequences of scientific experimentation with life. It
is grounded on a specific research, namely, that of creating life in the
laboratory without a mother’s womb. It predicts the modern researches on cloning, and more than anything else, Frankenstein criticizes the way some scientists have been trying to control nature.
Mary Shelley’s emphasis is not so much on the research itself as on some ethical issues that emerge from that research. And those ethical issues have not yet lost their social implications. Frankenstein has become a cultural myth of the modern world and has provided us
with a metaphor for the potentially disastrous results of thoughtless
scientific aims because it raises some ethical issues as to the limits of a scientist’s interference with nature. It is an extrapolation of current science and technology and its effects on future worlds, both living and non-living. It gave a wake-up call to scientists and others particularly decision makers to awaken a new consciousness of the
true realities inherent in the positive and negative potentialities of
science and technology.
- Dracula
Dracula, Gothic novel by Bram Stoker, published in 1897, that was the most popular literary work derived from vampire legends and became the basis for an entire genre of literature and film.
Dracula has been interpreted as an expression of anxiety about eastern Europeans invading western Europe, as represented by a Transylvanian who arrives in London and terrorizes its residents. Others see Stoker’s novel as an exploration of suppressed sexual desire and a reaction to the patriarchal and conservative norms broadly prevalent in Britain during the Victorian period. Notably, it inverts the era’s stereotypical gender roles through the highly sexualized actions of the female vampires. Yet Dracula can also be seen as the evil of temptation personified as he preys on women who must then be protected by the men around them (though those men still fail, particularly in Lucy’s case). The novel’s complexity, especially in its representation of gender, allows numerous, sometimes contradictory, interpretations.
* Background Information:
- Background Information of " Frankenstein"
"Frankenstein," written by Mary Shelley, was published in 1818. It is a Gothic novel that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a sapient creature through an unorthodox scientific experiment. The novel explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of playing god. The creature, often referred to as Frankenstein's monster, struggles with his identity and seeks revenge on his creator. Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" is considered a classic of both science fiction and horror literature, and it has had a significant impact on popular culture.
- Background Information of " Dracula"
"Dracula" is a Gothic horror novel written by Irish author Bram Stoker. It was first published in 1897 and is considered a classic of the vampire genre. The story is told through a series of letters, diary entries, newspaper articles, and ship logs, creating a unique narrative structure.The novel revolves around Count Dracula's attempt to move from Transylvania to England in order to spread the undead curse, and the battle between Dracula and a group of people led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing. The book explores themes of Victorian-era sexuality, immigration, colonialism, and the clash between modernity and ancient superstitions.
* Comparison of Key Elements:
- Themes:
Themes in Frankenstein:
1) Family, Society, Isolation
Frankenstein claims to be a novel that gives a flattering depiction of "domestic affection." That seems a strange claim in a novel full of murder, tragedy, and despair. But, in fact, all that tragedy, murder, and despair occur because of a lack of connection to either family or society. Put another way, the true evil in Frankenstein is not Victor or the monster, but isolation. When Victor becomes lost in his studies he removes himself from human society, and therefore loses sight of his responsibilities and the consequences of his actions. The monster turns vengeful not because it's evil, but because its isolation fills it with overwhelming hate and anger.
2)Ambition and Fallibility
Through Victor and Walton, Frankenstein portrays human beings as deeply ambitious, and yet also deeply flawed. Both Victor and Walton dream of transforming society and bringing glory to themselves through their scientific achievements. Yet their ambitions also make them fallible. Blinded by dreams of glory, they fail to consider the consequences of their actions. So while Victor turns himself into a god, a creator.
3)Romanticism and Nature:
Romantic writers portrayed nature as the greatest and most perfect force in the universe. They used words like "sublime" (as Mary Shelley herself does in describing Mont Blanc Frankenstein) to convey the unfathomable power and flawlessness of the natural world. Frankenstein, imperfect men disturb nature's perfection. Victor in his pride attempts to discover the "mysteries of creation," to "pioneer a new way" by penetrating the "citadel of nature." But just as a wave will take down even the strongest swimmer, nature prevails in the end and Victor is destroyed for his misguided attempt to manipulate its power.
Themes in Dracula:
1)Illness, Madness, and Confinement
Dracula contains a study of the meaning of "sanity" and "insanity," of "wellness" and "illness." The treatment for both "insanity" and "illness" in the novel is confinement, which recurs throughout. Practically every character in the group questions his or her wellness or sanity at some point. Jonathan Harker, on his trip to Dracula's castle, is confined within the castle as a prisoner of Dracula's. Harker believes he is going insane there.
2)Romantic Love, Seduction, and Sexual Puroty
Dracula contains a long meditation on "proper," socially-sanctioned love, and "improper" relations of lust and seduction. Much has been made of this aspect of the novel, particularly in 20th-century criticism, and with good reason: it is impossible to separate the act of Dracula's forcible blood-sucking, directed at unsuspecting women, from the process of violent seduction and sexual assault.
3) Life, Death, and the Un-Dead
most important, theme of the novel: that of the relationship between life, death, and the state in between these two, known by Van Helsing as "undeadness." Dracula is a creature of the undead. He sleeps during the day and lives at night; he is of incredible strength when awake, but must be invited into one's room in order to begin his "seduction." But the touchstone of Dracula's undeadness is his inability actually to die—his soul is trapped in a kind of prison, and must be released by the cutting off of Dracula's head, or the driving of a wooden stake through his heart. In this sense, to kill Dracula is to allow him to live—to free his soul from the prison of his body.
"Frankenstein" and "Dracula" are both classic Gothic novels that explore themes of science, morality, and the consequences of playing God. "Frankenstein" delves into the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the ethical implications of creating life. On the other hand, "Dracula" explores themes of sexuality, xenophobia, and the clash between modernity and ancient superstitions.
- Character Analysis:
Frankenstein's creature, from Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," is a tragic figure driven by loneliness and rejection. Dracula, from Bram Stoker's "Dracula," is a charismatic yet malevolent vampire motivated by a thirst for blood and power. While Frankenstein's creature longs for acceptance, Dracula seeks dominance and sustenance through his vampiric nature. Both characters explore themes of isolation, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, but their motivations and manifestations differ significantly.
Furthermore,Frankenstein's creature is a product of scientific experimentation and the rejection he faces is a consequence of society's prejudice against his grotesque appearance. In contrast, Dracula is a centuries-old vampire with supernatural abilities, embodying the fear of the unknown and the allure of forbidden desires. The two characters also differ in their relationships with humanity – Frankenstein's creature initially seeks companionship but turns to vengeance when rejected, while Dracula preys on humans for sustenance without remorse.
- Narrative structure:
"Frankenstein" and "Dracula" are both classic Gothic novels with distinct narrative structures. "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley follows a framed narrative, using multiple perspectives to tell the story. In contrast, "Dracula" by Bram Stoker is an epistolary novel, presented through a series of letters, journal entries, and newspaper articles. While both employ unique structures, "Frankenstein" explores the consequences of scientific ambition, while "Dracula" delves into the supernatural and the struggle between modernity and ancient forces.
- Settings and Atmosphere:
Frankenstein:
"Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley is set in various locations, including the Swiss Alps and Ingolstadt, Germany. The settings contribute to the atmospheric tone of the novel, ranging from the sublime beauty of nature to the eerie laboratories where Victor Frankenstein conducts his experiments. The contrasting environments enhance the story's emotional impact, reflecting the themes of ambition, isolation, and the consequences of playing god.
Dracula:
"Dracula" by Bram Stoker is known for its atmospheric settings. The novel unfolds in various locations, from the eerie Transylvanian castle to the bustling streets of London. Stoker skillfully creates a sense of foreboding through Gothic elements, like the ominous castle and the mysterious Carpathian Mountains. The use of journals and letters as narrative devices adds a personal touch, immersing readers in the characters' emotions. The novel's settings contribute to the overall atmosphere of suspense and horror, making it a classic in the Gothic genre.
* Impact and Legacy:
"Frankenstein" and "Dracula" have had a profound impact on the legacy of Gothic literature and horror genres. Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" pioneered science fiction, exploring ethical implications of scientific advancements. Bram Stoker's "Dracula" popularized vampire mythology, influencing countless adaptations in literature, film, and popular culture. Both works continue to shape discussions on morality, humanity, and the consequences of playing with the boundaries of life and death.
Furthermore, "Frankenstein," written by Mary Shelley in 1818, is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction. The novel delves into themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. Its enduring legacy is evident in numerous adaptations across various media, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas surrounding artificial life.
On the other hand, Bram Stoker's "Dracula," published in 1897, solidified the vampire myth in Western culture. Stoker's depiction of Count Dracula has become the quintessential vampire archetype, influencing subsequent portrayals in literature, film, and television. "Dracula" also explores societal fears, sexuality, and the clash between modernity and ancient superstitions.
Both "Frankenstein" and "Dracula" have inspired countless works, shaping the horror genre and providing a foundation for discussions on morality, fear, and the unknown. These novels continue to captivate audiences and remain integral to the literary canon of Gothic fiction.
* conclusion:
In comparing the conclusions of "Frankenstein" and "Dracula," both novels culminate in a sense of tragedy and resolution. In "Frankenstein," the tragic demise of Victor and his creature underscores the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition. The creature's decision to end his own existence reflects the pervasive theme of isolation and societal rejection.On the other hand, "Dracula" concludes with the triumph over the embodiment of evil, Count Dracula. The vampire hunters, led by Professor Van Helsing, successfully vanquish the threat, freeing Mina Harker from Dracula's influence.
While both novels explore the consequences of playing god-like roles and facing monstrous adversaries, "Frankenstein" leans towards a more somber and introspective resolution, whereas "Dracula" embraces a triumphant tone with the defeat of the supernatural antagonist.
* References:
“Comparative Essay on Frankenstein’s Monster and Dracula.” Edubirdie, 27 Dec. 2022, edubirdie.com/examples/comparative-essay-on-frankensteins-monster-and-dracula/
Navle, Balaji. “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: A Treatise of Science - Core.” Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: A Treatise of Science , 2019, novelcore.ac.uk/download/pdf/29801170 pdf
Lohnes, Kate. “Dracula.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 17 Oct. 2023, www.britannica.com/topic/Dracula-novel.
Young, Bryan. “Decades Later, ‘Bram Stoker’s Dracula’ and ‘Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein’ Make for a Sublime and Fascinating Double Feature.” /Film, 8 Aug. 2019,
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