Science

In Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel, “Frankenstein” the author explores and implores her readers to see the multifaceted use of the word science as its meaning shifts throughout the text and throughout her characters. Science, as defined during this time is the “Knowledge or understanding acquired by study; acquaintance with or mastery of any branch of learning. Science is an important keyword in Frankenstein because it holds different meanings throughout the novel.” As we explore the meaning of science to the characters in “Frankenstein” we see the spectrum of the term science shift, elucidating its significance in portraying the perils of unrestrained endeavors and the boundaries that are tested and shattered in the pursuit of uncovering the secrets of life.

First instance of Keyword

In the early parts of the novel we are introduced to Victor Frankenstein and his obsession with science, especially natural philosophy, from a young age. Victor sees science as a curious, intriguing and exciting view on the world with a million possibilities. He begins experimenting with making creations from the things he has learned at University and states that “the more fully I entered into the science, the more exclusively I pursued it for its own sake. That application, which at first had been a matter of duty and resolution, now became so ardent and eager, that the stars often disappeared in the light of morning whilst I was yet engaged in my laboratory.” (Shelley, Chapter 3). This excerpt shows Victor’s ambition and pursuit of understanding in science but we also see the twisted dark perspective as his ambition evolves into over-obsessive passion for power and creation. This instance exemplifies the shift of how science is viewed in just one paragraph. We see here how Victor’s curiosity and thirst for understanding of the world delves in to feelings of control and power; just the start of a common theme in this novel triggered by the important keyword “science”. This is also the start of Victor’s relentless pursuit in the world of science and creation.

  Science Through Voyant

The word Science is seen in the text Frankenstein approximately 28 times. Science is commonly used in phrases such as “science and..” As well as “science itself…”. Voyant gives a n interesting perspective to the use of the word science in Frankenstein by showing visuals with connecting terms. Through the combination of the words “creature” (seen 42 times throughout the novel) and “science” we can see higher frequencies in the earlier stages of the novel  for both words. The phrase “creature who..” And “science of” are seen equal amount of times throughput the text addresses the common pattern of the affect both of these words carry throughout the text. While “science” can be seen in different contextual understandings, “creature” is usually seen in similar contextual understandings.

Second Instance of Keyword

As Victor’s life becomes consumed with science, Science begins to consume the life of Victor.

As his creation of a monster begins to wreak havoc on his mind and cause him inner turmoil. As Victor states “The beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart” (Shelley, Chapter 5), we see an abrupt moral dilemma come to life as Victor realizes his mistake in creating the monster. As the term science has an evolution in the mind of Victor, our initial instances of victor’s conflicting experience with science show how his obsession has become so overwhelming he feels “disgust in his heart”. What was once a brilliant world of fascination has turned in to horror and disgust and Victor’s view on Science is changed forever. This concept of science is not only relevant to Victor however. As Victor’s view on Science changes so does the view of his creation. The evolving nature of science in Frankenstein is also seen in the character of the monster. Initially, the monster is a testament to Victor’s scientific achievement and an embodiment of his aspirations. However, as the monster gains consciousness and grapples with his existence, he seeks knowledge and understanding about his place in the world. He learns from books such as “Paradise Lost” and “Plutarch’s Lives,” aiming to comprehend human nature and society. The creature’s poignant words capture the essence of this quest for knowledge: “The ancient teachers of this science promised impossibilities and performed nothing” (Shelley, Chapter 15). Overall, we see the evolving meaning of science contribute to a theme of pushing the yearning for possibility and knowledge as we see in Victor and his creation.