Question

In Chapter IV of Frankenstein, Victor describes the isolation of his workshop where he performed his experiments. Which romantic stereotype of scientists is Mary Shelley most likely playing off of in this scene?
A. The Body Snatcher
B. The Unqualified quack
C. The devoted experimentalist
D. The obsessed madman

Answer 1

The obsessed madman -apex

Answer 2

The right answer is D. The obsessed madman.

In fiction, the mad scientist tends to put himself in the role of God which can be an extension of the differences between religion and science, as exemplified in the discussions of evolution - which is a theme used by mad scientists who create beasts and fantastic monsters. When his monster was born, Victor Frankenstein shouted, "Now I know how God feels!" This makes it fit perfectly in option D of the question.