FINAL RESEARCH PAPER MLA FORMAT
The concept of the monster or supernatural being has been a prominent theme in literature for centuries, and has evolved significantly over time. From the mythological creatures of ancient civilizations to the gothic monsters of the 18th and 19th centuries, the idea of the monstrous has served as a reflection of societal fears and anxieties. This paper will explore the evolution of the monster in literature, focusing on the works of William Blake and Mary Shelley and how they have influenced our understanding of the monstrous.
One of the earliest examples of the monster/supernatural in literature can be found in the mythology of ancient civilizations. These myths often featured supernatural beings such as gods, demons, and monsters that embodied the fears and uncertainties of the time. These creatures were often used to explain natural phenomena or to represent the darker aspects of human nature. For example, in Greek mythology, the monster Medusa has snakes for hair and turns those who look at her into stone. This myth serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of vanity and hubris.
Fast forward to the 18th and 19th centuries, where the gothic genre became popular and monsters took on a new significance in literature. William Blake, a prominent figure in the Romantic movement, explored themes of innocence and experience in his poetry and art. In his poem "The Tyger," Blake presents the image of a powerful, fearsome creature that embodies the darker aspects of nature. The tiger in the poem is a symbol of the destructive forces in the world, and serves as a reminder of the complexities of the human experience.
Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, published in 1818, is another important work that explores the theme of the monstrous. The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a monster out of dead body parts. The creature, who is abandoned by his creator and society, becomes a tragic figure who longs for acceptance and companionship. Shelley's novel raises important questions about science, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Both Blake and Shelley's works demonstrate how the concept of the monster/supernatural has evolved over time and how it continues to be a powerful symbol in literature. These monstrous figures serve as mirrors that reflect the fears and anxieties of society, and force us to confront the darker aspects of human nature. As we continue to explore the theme of the monstrous in literature, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
In conclusion, the idea of the monster/supernatural has been a prominent theme in literature for centuries and has evolved significantly over time. From the mythological creatures of ancient civilizations to the gothic monsters of the 18th and 19th centuries, the concept of the monstrous has served as a reflection of societal fears and anxieties. Through the works of William Blake and Mary Shelley, we see how the monster has been used to explore complex themes such as innocence and experience, science and morality, and the darker aspects of human nature. By studying these works, we gain a deeper appreciation for the role of the monstrous in literature and how it continues to inform our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Works Cited
Blake, William. "The Tyger." Selected Poetry of William Blake. Edited by P. J. V. Matz, Wordsworth Editions, 2000, pp. 30-31.
Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. 1818. Penguin Books, 2013.
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