Atmosphere in Shelley's Frankenstein: Creating a Gothic Ambiance

Frankenstein, written by Mary Shelley, is a novel that explores the themes of creation, isolation, and the consequences of scientific ambition. One of the most prominent aspects of the novel is the atmospheric setting that Shelley creates to enhance the gothic elements of the story. By employing various literary techniques, Shelley effectively establishes a dark and eerie atmosphere that contributes to the overall tone and mood of the novel. This essay will analyze how Shelley creates her gothic atmosphere through the use of descriptive language, vivid imagery, and the portrayal of nature.

Descriptive Language

Shelley's use of descriptive language plays a pivotal role in setting the gothic atmosphere of Frankenstein. Throughout the novel, she employs words and phrases that evoke a sense of horror and unease. For instance, when Victor Frankenstein first witnesses the creature he has created, he describes it as a "catastrophe" and a "hideous monster." These descriptions immediately convey a sense of fear and repulsion, contributing to the gothic ambiance of the scene. Additionally, Shelley's use of adjectives such as "ghastly," "dreary," and "melancholy" when describing the settings further enhances the dark and foreboding atmosphere.

Furthermore, Shelley's portrayal of characters' emotions through descriptive language also contributes to the gothic atmosphere. As Victor Frankenstein becomes consumed by his obsession with creating life, he describes himself as being "haunted" and "tormented." These words not only reflect his mental state but also create a sense of unease and tension, adding to the gothic ambiance of the novel.

Vivid Imagery

Another technique Shelley uses to create a gothic atmosphere in Frankenstein is vivid imagery. She paints detailed pictures in the readers' minds by employing sensory descriptions. For example, when the creature is first brought to life, Shelley writes, "His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness." This vivid imagery not only adds to the grotesque nature of the creature but also helps to establish the dark and eerie atmosphere of the scene.

Moreover, Shelley's use of imagery to describe the natural world also contributes to the gothic ambiance. Throughout the novel, she frequently depicts nature as wild and untamed, reflecting the tumultuous emotions of the characters. For example, when Victor Frankenstein is consumed by guilt and remorse, he describes the natural world around him as "tempestuous" and "gloomy." By intertwining the emotions of the characters with the imagery of the natural world, Shelley creates a gothic atmosphere that enhances the overall tone and mood of the novel.

Portrayal of Nature

The portrayal of nature in Frankenstein is another important aspect of the gothic atmosphere that Shelley creates. The natural world depicted in the novel is often described as a reflection of the characters' inner turmoil and the consequences of their actions. For instance, when Victor Frankenstein first arrives in Ingolstadt, he describes the landscape as "dreary" and "desolate," mirroring his own feelings of isolation and despair. Similarly, when the creature is rejected by society, Shelley describes the natural world as a place of solace for him, where he can find temporary respite from his loneliness.

Furthermore, the portrayal of nature in Frankenstein also serves to highlight the destructive power of human ambition. Shelley repeatedly emphasizes the sublime and awe-inspiring aspects of nature, contrasting them with the destructive consequences of Victor Frankenstein's scientific pursuits. This juxtaposition of the beauty and power of nature with the horrors of human ambition further contributes to the gothic atmosphere of the novel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mary Shelley effectively creates a gothic atmosphere in Frankenstein through the use of descriptive language, vivid imagery, and the portrayal of nature. By employing these techniques, Shelley enhances the dark and eerie tone of the novel, contributing to its gothic ambiance. The descriptive language and vivid imagery evoke a sense of horror and unease, while the portrayal of nature reflects the characters' inner turmoil and the consequences of their actions. Through these literary techniques, Shelley successfully establishes a gothic atmosphere that adds depth and richness to the novel, making it a timeless work of literature.

Works Cited:

- Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. Penguin Classics, 2003.