What recurring motifs are there in "Frankenstein?"
Also, what would the basic conflict be? Should I just describe the basic plot in a summary, or is there a different or more specific way to do that?
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/frankenstein/themes.html
For the basic conflict, ask yourself what exactly sets up the "problem" that is solved by the end of the story.
In Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein," there are several recurring motifs that contribute to the overall themes and symbolism of the story. Some of these motifs include:
1. Nature: Nature plays a significant role throughout the novel, symbolizing both beauty and power. This motif highlights the contrast between the destructive actions of Victor Frankenstein and the sublime power of the natural world.
2. Light and Darkness: The dichotomy of light and darkness represents the struggle between good and evil, knowledge and ignorance, as well as the duality of human nature. It reflects the ethical and moral consequences of Victor's creation and his pursuit of forbidden knowledge.
3. Fire: Fire is a recurring motif that represents both creation and destruction. It symbolizes Victor's passion and ambition to create life but also represents the destructive power of the creature he brings to life.
4. Knowledge and Science: The pursuit of forbidden knowledge and the consequences of playing God are central to the novel. This motif raises questions about the limits of human understanding and the responsibility of scientists or creators.
As for the basic conflict, there are multiple layers of conflict in "Frankenstein." The primary conflict revolves around Victor Frankenstein's internal struggle between his desire for scientific discovery and the moral implications of his actions. This conflict is intensified when he creates the creature, leading to a conflict between the two as the creature seeks revenge and Victor grapples with his guilt and responsibility.
To summarize the basic plot, you can start with introducing Victor Frankenstein as a young scientist driven by ambition and immersed in the pursuit of knowledge. Driven by curiosity and a desire to conquer death, Victor creates a creature through his scientific experiments. However, upon seeing its hideous appearance, Victor is horrified and abandons the creature. From there, the creature is thrust into a hostile world and experiences rejection, loneliness, and the desire for revenge against his creator. The plot follows the intertwined lives of Victor and the creature as they confront their inner conflicts and try to grapple with the consequences of their actions.