Frankenstein Response
Alex Murguia
Professor Lane
History of Technology
25 February 2017
Frankenstein Discussion Questions
What makes Frankenstein a work of science fiction, and what could you argue against that hypothesis?
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein can be categorized as science fiction due to the fact that it explores developing current ideas in order to explore the potential impact that science and technology may have on a group of people.
What are the primary moral issues in Frankenstein?
The novel explores the importance of personal responsibility, the ethics of revenge, and the dangers of pushing the limits of science too far.
Victor Frankenstein became obsessed with creating life, and although he did not have outwardly malicious intentions, he created a vicious monster through his behavior towards his creation. Later events in the plot prompt the reader to question whether or not the monster’s acts of revenge were truly immoral based on Frankenstein’s actions. Finally, the development of science and technology are essential to the progress of mankind; however, they can be detrimental if the responsibility for any repercussions is transferred to the technology itself.
Why was this assigned?
This novel has been assigned in order for students to understand that we are responsible for our own scientific error and containing it to a certain extent can be necessary.
Hi Alex – I have some questions and would love to see some detail here.
You say Shelley’s work is science fiction because it explores the potential impact on science and technology. Where might we find this definition of science fiction, and in what way do the events of the novel help us understand your point? A quotation or two would be helpful here.
Great list of issues of moral responsibility. Which events do you believe cause the reader to question the monster’s immorality?
I think I understand what you mean by “they can be detrimental if the responsibility for any repercussions is transferred to the technology” – do you think that happens in the novel? Can you explain?