Frankenstein Literary Essay Topics

Select one of the topics below and compose a five paragraph essay.
Be sure to follow proper essay structure, and proper MLA style
in terms of quotations and the layout of the paper. Use the essay
outline, format sheet, in class lesson, and MLA style guide from class.
The topics below are not thesis statements. You will need to
compose your own thesis on the topic once you have thought
about the topic at length. Remember to think analytically:
explain the how and why, as well as the significance of what you
say in response to the statement. Ask yourself, what is Mary
Shelley saying about your topic? What is her message? Attach a
one paragraph reflection at the end of your paper following the
guidelines explained on the rubric.
1.Dr. Frankenstein finds himself unable to mother the being he
creates. Why does Shelley characterize Victor in this way? Discuss
the significance of parent-child relationships and birth references
throughout the novel.
2.The subtitle of the novel is The modern Prometheus. Discuss
the character of Victor Frankenstein in light of this title.
3.Shelley's novel, Frankenstein, is clearly a product of its time.
Discuss how the novel is exemplary of the literary period in which
it was created.
4.Why are there so many references to sickness and fever in
Frankenstein? Trace these references throughout the novel. What
broader theme might Shelley be expressing?
5.Is the ending inevitable? Do the monster and Victor have to be destroyed in order
for there to be order restored among men?
6.What criticism of society is Mary Shelley offering?
7.Discuss the shifts in narrative perspectives that take place in the
novel and their significance.
8.Consider the role of letters and how the epistolary format
facilitated the portrayal of the novels themes.
9.Do you detect any biblical themes in Frankenstein? Discuss
where they are most prevalent and how they are relevant to
Shelleys project.
10.Considering Victor Frankenstein, the monster and the character
of Robert Walton (among others), discuss Mary Shelleys
assessment of scientific discovery and the idea of progress.

11.What is the commentary that Shelley offers on human nature?

Is the monster inherently evil? Is Victor? Who is the monster?

3U Literary Essay Rubric

Curriculum
Expectation
Understandi
K ng of Form &
n Style
o /20
w
l
e
d
g
e

T
h
i
n
k
i
n
g

Developing
and
Organizing
Content
/20

Criteria
Demonstrate knowledge of
literary essay format
requirements
Demonstrate knowledge of
literary writing tools and
techniques
Demonstrate knowledge and
understanding of content of
literary works studied
Develop a coherent plan to
structure argument and essay
Demonstrate original ideas
Analyze text with a high degree
of effectiveness and depth
Provide effective and relevant
proof to support argument
Organize ideas into a logical
progression that is effective and
engaging, and reinforces the
argument
Organize sources referenced in
proper format

A
p
p
l
i
c
a
t
i
o
n

Using
Knowledge
of Form and
Style
/10

Write complete sentences that

communicate their meaning
clearly and accurately, varying
sentence type, structure, and
length and making logical
transitions between ideas
Evidence of engagement with
audience;
Sense of voice;
Evidence of effective diction.

Reflection
/10

Use of proper referencing

format
Reflect on several different
strategies you used before, during,
and after writing, explain which
ones you found most helpful, and
identify several specific steps you

Comments

Level

took to improve as a writer.

C Conventions
o /20
m
m
u
n
i
c
a
t
i
o
n

Correct use of accurate

conventions (spelling,
punctuation, grammar)
Use of proofreading techniques
to polish writing