Reading lists and articles featuring Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley Biography

Mary Shelley, born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin on August 30, 1797, was an English novelist, short story writer, and biographer. She is best known for her novel Frankenstein, which has become a classic of Gothic and science fiction literature. Shelley’s life was marked by tragedy, creativity, and a rebellious spirit that defied societal norms.

Mary Shelley was the daughter of political philosopher William Godwin and feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft. Unfortunately, her mother died shortly after giving birth to her, leaving Shelley to be raised by her father and stepmother. Growing up in a household of intellectuals and writers, Shelley was exposed to radical ideas and literature from a young age.

One of the most significant influences on Shelley’s writing was her father’s belief in the power of reason and the importance of individual freedom. These ideas would later be reflected in her novel Frankenstein, which explores the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition and the dangers of playing god.

In 1814, at the age of 17, Mary Shelley met the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who would later become her husband. Their relationship was scandalous at the time, as Percy was already married. The couple faced financial difficulties and social ostracism, but their shared love for literature and intellectual pursuits fueled their creativity.

During the summer of 1816, Mary Shelley and Percy Shelley, along with their friend Lord Byron, spent time together in Switzerland. It was during this time that Mary Shelley conceived the idea for Frankenstein. Inspired by a discussion about the nature of life and the possibility of reanimating the dead, Shelley’s novel explored themes of creation, identity, and the consequences of scientific discovery.

When Frankenstein was first published anonymously in 1818, it received mixed reviews. However, the novel gained popularity over time and has since become a literary classic. It has been adapted into numerous films, plays, and other forms of media, solidifying its place in popular culture.

Mary Shelley’s work continues to be studied and analyzed by scholars, who recognize her contributions to the genres of Gothic and science fiction literature. Her exploration of ethical and moral dilemmas in Frankenstein remains relevant today, as advancements in science and technology raise similar questions about the limits of human ambition.