Keyword Guide · study-guide
The settings in the opening movement of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein do more than just provide a backdrop; they establish the Gothic mood and mirror the internal struggles of the characters. By analyzing these locations, students can better understand the themes of isolation and scientific ambition.
The narrative begins in the frozen reaches of the Arctic Circle through Captain Robert Walton's letters. This setting represents the literal and metaphorical 'edge' of the world. The vast, desolate ice fields emphasize the theme of isolation and the dangers of seeking forbidden knowledge. It is here that the frame story begins, setting a cold, unforgiving tone that persists throughout the novel.
In contrast to the harsh Arctic, Victor Frankenstein’s childhood in Geneva, Switzerland, is depicted as an idyllic and harmonious environment. Surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps, this setting represents innocence, family, and the beauty of the natural world. In literary analysis, this location serves as a baseline for Victor’s life before his obsession with science leads to his eventual downfall.
When Victor moves to the University of Ingolstadt, the setting shifts from the open landscapes of Switzerland to cramped, urban interiors. His laboratory, often described as a 'workshop of filthy creation,' is a pivotal setting in Act 1. This secluded, dark space reflects Victor’s growing secrecy and his physical and mental detachment from society as he pursues his experiments.
Throughout the early chapters, the 'sublime'—the mix of awe and terror inspired by nature—is a recurring element. Whether it is a violent thunderstorm in Plainpalais or the looming presence of Mount Mont Blanc, the setting often reflects Victor’s inner turmoil. This technique, known as pathetic fallacy, uses the environment to signal emotional shifts and foreshadow tragic events.
Starting in the Arctic creates a frame narrative that allows the reader to see the consequences of Victor’s actions before learning how they began. It also establishes the theme of dangerous ambition shared by Walton and Victor.
The laboratory symbolizes Victor’s transition from a student of nature to a creator who defies natural laws. Its cramped, hidden nature reflects the moral corruption and isolation associated with his work.
When Victor returns, the once-peaceful setting of Geneva is haunted by the presence of his creation. The natural beauty of the Alps now serves as a reminder of his guilt and the monster's looming threat.
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