Research portfolio
How does the idea of the monster / supernatural evolve throughout the time periods and works we’ve studied this year?
Coolidge
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
Blake Williams
The chimney sweeper
Shelly
Frankenstein
Lord Byron: Meter and Stanzas
Wordsworth
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud
Citations
All facts, statistics, and quotes are followed by an in-text citation in proper MLA format.
Works Cited Page
A Minimum of Five Paragraphs (Intro, 3 Body Paragraphs, Conclusion) with at least five sentences in each paragraph.
Format
The essay follows the rules for MLA format.
Introduction:
Throughout the works we have studied this year, the idea of the monster and supernatural has evolved significantly. From Coolidge's exploration of the monstrous within ourselves to Shelley's creation of a literal monster in Frankenstein, each author brings a unique perspective to the concept of the supernatural. By examining the works of various writers such as Lord Byron, Wordsworth, Blake, and Williams, we can trace the evolution of the monster and supernatural in literature over time.
Body Paragraph 1:
In Coolidge's work, the idea of the monster is often related to the inner turmoil and struggles of the human psyche. The monster is not always a physical being, but rather a representation of our own fears, insecurities, and doubts. In "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner," Coleridge portrays the Mariner as a tortured soul, haunted by his past actions and forced to face the consequences of his deeds. This internal struggle creates a sense of the supernatural within the poem, as the Mariner is plagued by visions of ghostly figures and otherworldly beings.
Body Paragraph 2:
In contrast, Shelley's Frankenstein presents a more literal interpretation of the monster. Victor Frankenstein's creation is a grotesque being, pieced together from various body parts and imbued with life by scientific means. This monster is an external manifestation of Victor's own hubris and ambition, reflecting his desire to play God and control the forces of nature. The creature's tragic existence serves as a warning against the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the consequences of playing with forces beyond our control.
Body Paragraph 3:
Lord Byron's exploration of meter and stanzas also contributes to the evolution of the monster and supernatural in literature. By using various poetic techniques, Byron is able to create a sense of unease and foreboding in his works, invoking the supernatural and evoking feelings of fear and awe in his readers. Likewise, Wordsworth's poem "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" presents a more peaceful and serene depiction of the natural world, yet still hints at the presence of the supernatural within the beauty of nature.
Conclusion:
Overall, the idea of the monster and supernatural evolves throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year, from the internal struggles portrayed by Coolidge to the external manifestations of monsters in Shelley's Frankenstein. Each author brings a unique perspective to the concept of the supernatural, illustrating how it can be both a source of fear and wonder in literature. By examining these works, we can see how the idea of the monster and supernatural continues to evolve and resonate with readers across different time periods and genres.