English Literary Genres Questions Long
In Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', foreshadowing is a literary technique used to hint at future events or outcomes in the story. Shelley skillfully employs foreshadowing throughout the novel to create suspense, build tension, and enhance the overall narrative.
One significant instance of foreshadowing occurs early in the novel when Victor Frankenstein describes his childhood fascination with natural philosophy and alchemy. He mentions his discovery of Cornelius Agrippa's works, which he describes as "the ancient teachers of this science" (Shelley, 35). This foreshadows Victor's later obsession with creating life and his eventual downfall. The reference to ancient teachings also hints at the dangers and consequences that may arise from tampering with nature.
Another example of foreshadowing can be seen in Victor's dream before creating the creature. In this dream, he sees Elizabeth, his beloved cousin, turn into a corpse and then transform into his dead mother. This dream foreshadows the tragic events that will unfold later in the story, as both Elizabeth and Victor's mother become victims of the creature's wrath. It also symbolizes the blurring of boundaries between life and death, which becomes a central theme in the novel.
Furthermore, the creature's own narrative contains foreshadowing elements. When the creature learns to read and discovers the works of Milton, he becomes deeply affected by the story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace. This foreshadows the creature's own fall from innocence and his eventual descent into darkness and violence. The creature's fascination with Paradise Lost also foreshadows his desire for a companion and his eventual demand for Victor to create a female counterpart for him.
Additionally, the recurring motif of lightning throughout the novel serves as a foreshadowing device. Victor's initial inspiration for creating life comes from witnessing a lightning storm, which he describes as "a new species would bless me as its creator and source" (Shelley, 51). This foreshadows the moment when Victor successfully brings the creature to life using electricity. The motif of lightning also symbolizes the destructive power of nature and the consequences of playing god.
In conclusion, Mary Shelley effectively utilizes foreshadowing in 'Frankenstein' to create anticipation, build suspense, and provide insight into the future events of the story. Through various instances of foreshadowing, Shelley warns of the dangers of ambition, the consequences of tampering with nature, and the blurred boundaries between life and death. These foreshadowing elements contribute to the overall Gothic atmosphere of the novel and enhance its themes of creation, responsibility, and the human condition.