Frankenstein is a novel by Mary Shelley that was first published in 1818.
Summary
Read our full plot summary and analysis of Frankenstein, chapter by chapter breakdowns, and more.
Characters
See a complete list of the characters in Frankenstein and in-depth analyses of Victor Frankenstein, the Monster, and more.
Literary Devices
Here's where you'll find analysis of the literary devices in Frankenstein, from the major themes to motifs, symbols, and more.
Questions & Answers
Explore our selection of frequently asked questions about Frankenstein and find the answers you need.
- Why does Frankenstein create the Monster?
- Why does the Monster want revenge?
- How does the Monster learn to speak and read?
- Why does Frankenstein destroy the Monster’s female companion?
- Why does Walton turn the ship around?
- Why is Walton trying to reach the North Pole?
- Why does Frankenstein run away from his Monster?
- Why does the Monster kill William?
- How does Frankenstein figure out that the Monster killed William?
- Why does Frankenstein remain quiet during Justine’s trial?
- Why does Frankenstein first agree to make his Monster a companion?
- Why do the townspeople accuse Frankenstein of murdering Clerval?
- Why does Frankenstein leave Elizabeth alone on their wedding night?
- Does the Monster die?
- Does Frankenstein learn from his mistake in creating the Monster?
Quotes
Find the quotes you need to support your Frankenstein essay, or refresh your memory of Frankenstein by reading these key quotes.
-
By Theme
- Ambition
- Loneliness
- Parenthood
- Natural Goodness
-
By Character
- The Monster
- Frankenstein
- Walton
- Elizabeth Lavenza
- Henry Clerval
-
By Symbol
- Light and Fire
-
By Setting
- The Arctic Ice
- Europe
Quick Quizzes
Test your knowledge of Frankenstein with quizzes about every section, major characters, themes, symbols, and more.
Essays
Get ready to ace your Frankenstein paper with our suggested essay topics, helpful essays about historical and literary context, a sample A+ student essay, and more.
Further Study
Go further in your study of Frankenstein with background information, movie adaptations, and links to the best resources around the web.
