Adam, Hamlet, Edward, and Frankenstein

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley can be related to many different works of literature. Shelley tells a story filled with the trials of rejection and lost feeling. The story can be related to the biblical story of the creation. The rage of the monster is relatable to the rage of Hamlet in the book Hamlet by William Shakespeare. His rejection by society is related to Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands. Shelley wrote a story that not only related to those in the past, but also influenced stories to come.

One story that can be related to the story Frankenstein is the biblical story of creation. In the creation of earth, God created man and woman, Adam and Eve. After disobeying a commandment by god, they were cast from the Garden of Eden, left with the trials and tempting’s on earth. Dr. Frankenstein uses his scientific capabilities to create life. Although he has created it, he fears it. The monster runs away from his creator. He becomes educated but after being mocked and scorned, starts seeking revenge. He ends up killing those close to his creator. This can be related to the story of creation because like god, Frankenstein has created life. Also, the people god has so willingly given life, sometimes turn against him through trials. The monster did just this; he threatened his creator and shamed him.

            Another book that is closely related to Frankenstein is Hamlet by William Shakespeare. In Hamlet, revenge is very important. The young Hamlet is to avenge his father’s death after being killed by his brother. Hamlet was close to his family and he is devastated to find that the man who was to marry his mother killed his father. Through rage he even kills a close family friend. Like in Hamlet, revenge is a prominent theme. Frankenstein’s monster seeks revenge on him for refusing to create a female partner for him. He is alone and will not allow Frankenstein to be happy while he is miserable. Through rage he kills those Frankenstein loves.

            Lastly, The story is closely related to that of Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands. Just like Frankenstein’s monster, a scientist created Edward. He was created and forced to use scissors for hands due to the scientist’s death. Edward faces the disapproval by society because he has scissors for hands. Many misunderstood him because they didn’t take the time to get to know him. Frankenstein’s monster went through the similar thing. He was not accepted by society as well due to his appearance. In heart he was a kind being but nobody took the time to get to know him. People judged both Frankenstein’s monster and Edward Scissorhands by their appearance instead of who they were on the inside.

            Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is closely related to other works of literature. Through different themes and allusions, she is also able to influence later works.