Narrative Framework and Point of View in:

Janell Steigerwald

Gabi Al-Shamma

Lauren LaBar

FrankensteinBy: Mary Shelley

Point of View

The point of view in Frankenstein changes multiple times throughout the novel- doing this allows the reader to see the situational and personal conflicts that arise from different perspectives. The novel beings as a series of letters written by R

Walton to his sister The next section which takes up a majority of the book is

from Doctor Frankenstein’s point of view but “written” by R Walton in a letter to his sister

Later on the point of view changes to the monster’s viewpoint, however it is still within the letter R Walton is writing to his sister and told to Walton by Dr. Frankenstein

It then switches back to Doctor Frankenstein’s point of view

The novel ends with more letters written by R Walton to his sister

Chart!

Letters from R. Walton to his sister.

Dr Frankenstein narrates his story to R. Walton

Monster narrates his story to Dr. Frankenstein who narrates to R. Walton

Narrative Framework

Monster’s POV

Doctor Frankenstein's

POV

Letters by R Walton to his

sister

Letters by R Walton to his

sister

Doctor Frankenstein's

POV

Why Do We Care? The multiple changes in point of view, and the

structural three parts of the novel help to juxtapose both the views and experiences of the monster and his creator. They allow the reader to freely interpret the story from both sides, and to form his/her opinion on the characters.

Different themes become more apparent through other character’s eyes Ex. Pursuit of knowledge, parenthood and acceptance,

personal responsibility were a part of Doctor Frankensteins POV

Meanwhile influence of society on an individual and equal vs. bias opportunity were reoccurring during the monsters POV

The Effects of Multiple Point of View The multiple points of view highlight both the

flaws and specialties in each character. They also prompt the reader to choose sides based on the experiences they witness. This allows them to form personal opinions on the matters. (ex: Should Frankenstein create a companion for his “creature”?)

It is interesting how the shifts in point of view are symmetrical- this reflects the need for structure in science and daily life. Furthermore, the placement of the monster’s POV in the center of the framework puts emphasis on his experiences.

Letters + Poems in Novel Letters to Dr. Frankenstein from Elizabeth and

his father allow the reader to understand more viewpoints than the main two throughout the novel

Poems:Excerpts from poems are used in the novel as part of the writing. This is perhaps, to allude to themes very evident in these poem excerpts.

It’s Alive!!

FIN!