Research Paper Portfolio
How does the idea of the monster / supernatural evolve throughout the time periods and works we’ve studied this year?
Topic The paper is about one of the provided topics. There is a clear and arguable thesis. The topic and 3 main points are made clear in the introduction
Topic The paper is about one of the provided topics. There is a clear and arguable thesis. The topic and 3 main points are made clear in the introduction
Organization The research is organized into 3 main points, with at least 2 different sources for each main point.
Citations All facts, statistics, and quotes are followed by an in-text citation in proper MLA format.
The lamb
The rime of ancient mariner
Kubla Khan
the rime of the ancient mariner
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein explores the evolution of the monster/supernatural motif throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year. In Shelley's novel, the monster is both feared and pitied, embodying the complexities and contradictions of human nature. The three main points to be examined in this paper are: the concept of the monster as a symbol of the unknown and the "other", the idea of creation and responsibility in relation to the monster, and the theme of isolation and alienation experienced by the monster.
In examining the concept of the monster as a symbol of the unknown and the "other", it is important to consider how society's fears and prejudices are projected onto the monster. In Frankenstein, the monster is initially rejected and feared by his creator and society at large, reflecting the fear of the unknown and the outsider. For example, in Chapter 5 of the novel, the monster's appearance is described as "wretched and abhorred" by Victor Frankenstein, highlighting society's tendency to judge based on superficial qualities rather than inner character (Shelley 57). This mirrors the theme of the unknown and the "other" present in Coleridge's The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, where the albatross serves as a symbol of the supernatural and the unknowable.
In considering the idea of creation and responsibility in relation to the monster, it is important to explore the ethical dilemmas faced by Victor Frankenstein in bringing the monster to life. Victor's reckless ambition and disregard for the consequences of his actions ultimately lead to the tragic consequences that befall both himself and the monster. This theme of creation and responsibility is also present in Blake's The Lamb, where the innocent lamb is created by a benevolent creator who nurtures and cares for his creation.
Finally, the theme of isolation and alienation experienced by the monster in Frankenstein sheds light on the human tendency to fear and reject the unknown. The monster's desperate desire for companionship and acceptance is a poignant reminder of the power of loneliness and social isolation. This theme is also present in Coleridge's Kubla Khan, where the protagonist's isolation from society leads to a sense of disconnectedness and longing for connection.
In conclusion, the concept of the monster/supernatural motif evolves throughout the time periods and works we have studied this year, reflecting society's fears and prejudices, ethical dilemmas surrounding creation and responsibility, and the universal experience of isolation and alienation. As we delve deeper into these themes in Shelley's Frankenstein, we gain a greater understanding of the complexities and contradictions of human nature.