Prompt 1 Option: What are the elements of gothic literature? After researching these, do you think Frankenstein should be consid
ered a gothic novel, why or why not? Use specific examples. 1. Research the characteristics of Gothic literature and make a list of everything you learn about it. Then review passages from the novel Frankenstein and compare the list of Gothic characteristics to the novel. What similarities do you find? Explain how Frankenstein is a Gothic novel. In your essay, write about the elements that make up the story such as the setting, character development, narrative voice, tone, and theme. Choose a few of these, and explain how they contribute to the novel’s identity as a Gothic novel. Do not write a book report or summarize the plot. Instead, prove that this novel is Gothic through the evidence gathered during research. Prove your findings with quotes from the novel and research sources. 3 quotes from the novel, and 3 quotes from the research sources must be used throughout the entire essay. 6 quotes must be used to meet the minimum requirement; students are encouraged to use more. At least two quotes must be used in each body paragraph.
Frankenstein is by no means the first Gothic novel. Instead, this novel is a compilation of Romantic and Gothic elements combined into a singular work with an unforgettable story. The Gothic novel is unique because by the time Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein, several novels had appeared using Gothic themes, but the genre had only been around since 1754.
