n a short response (200 words), choose two works from this module and discuss how they approach utilizing the elements of Romanticism. What is similar? What is different? What elements do they use? Use Textual evidence and cite your sources.
Two works from this module that approach utilizing the elements of Romanticism are William Wordsworth's poem "Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey" and Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein."
Both "Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey" and "Frankenstein" share a similar approach to Romanticism by emphasizing the importance of nature and its ability to inspire and heal the human spirit. In his poem, Wordsworth describes how the beauty and tranquility of the natural landscape surrounding Tintern Abbey allows him to feel a deep sense of connection to a higher power and brings him solace from the troubles of the world. Similarly, Shelley's novel portrays the character of Victor Frankenstein finding solace and rejuvenation in the natural world, seeking refuge from the darkness and isolation that he experiences as a result of his scientific ambitions.
Both works also utilize the Romantic element of the "Sublime" to evoke strong emotions in the reader. In "Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey," Wordsworth describes the sublime as a powerful force that fills him with awe and contemplation. This is evident in his lines, "That blessed mood / In which the burthen of the mystery, / In which the heavy and the weary weight / Of all this unintelligible world, / Is lightened." Similarly, in "Frankenstein," Victor Frankenstein is captivated by the sublime power of nature and its ability to evoke strong emotions and push the limits of human understanding.
However, despite these similarities, there are also notable differences in how the two works approach utilizing the elements of Romanticism. Wordsworth's poem focuses on the individual's subjective response to nature and the importance of memory and reflection, while "Frankenstein" explores the darker side of human nature and the consequences of man's attempt to control and manipulate the natural world. Both works reflect the core Romantic ideals of embracing the power of imagination and the multiplicity of human experience, but they each approach these themes in unique ways.
In conclusion, both "Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey" and "Frankenstein" embody the elements of Romanticism, such as the emphasis on nature and its ability to evoke strong emotions, and the exploration of the sublime. However, they differ in their focus and tone, with Wordsworth's poem highlighting the solace and inspiration found in nature, while Shelley's novel delves into the darker aspects of human ambition and the consequences of scientific experimentation.
In the realm of Romantic literature, two notable works that effectively convey the elements of Romanticism are Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and William Wordsworth's "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey." While both works embrace the core elements of Romanticism such as imagination, nature, and the supernatural, they approach these themes in distinctive ways.
In "Frankenstein," Shelley employs the supernatural element within the framework of her protagonist's scientific experimentation. The character of Victor Frankenstein defies the boundaries of nature by creating life from non-living matter, highlighting the Romantic fascination with the supernatural and the exploration of the unknown. A prime example of this is embodied in Victor's exclamation: "A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me" (Shelley 60). This showcases the Romantic belief in the power of the individual to transcend conventional limits.
On the other hand, "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey" by Wordsworth emphasizes the spiritual connection between human beings and nature. The poem delves into the speaker's personal experience, highlighting the role of memory in inspiring a sense of awe and admiration for the natural world. Wordsworth's speaker declares, "I have felt / A presence that disturbs me with the joy / Of elevated thoughts; a sense sublime / Of something far more deeply interfused" (Wordsworth 96-99). Such lines exhibit the Romantic emphasis on imagination and the individual's emotional response to natural surroundings.
While both works capture the essence of Romanticism, they differ in terms of their exploration of nature. Shelley's "Frankenstein" portrays nature as unforgiving and unfriendly, often reflecting the turmoil and isolation experienced by the characters. Victor laments, "the blackness of despair had cast its gloom over our spirits" (Shelley 204), suggesting a darker perspective on nature.
In contrast, Wordsworth's "Tintern Abbey" presents nature as a source of solace and spiritual rejuvenation for the speaker. The poem celebrates the transformative power of nature, with the speaker finding solace amidst the "sweet inland murmur" (Wordsworth 26) of the river. This perception of nature as a restorative and nurturing force aligns more closely with traditional Romantic ideals.
Overall, "Frankenstein" and "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey" both effectively incorporate the elements of Romanticism. They explore themes of imagination, nature, and the supernatural, albeit with some differences. While Shelley portrays a darker view of nature in "Frankenstein," Wordsworth's poem emphasizes the spiritual and transformative qualities of the natural world. These works exemplify the diverse ways in which Romantic literature can capture the multifaceted aspects of the human experience.