Author(s): Ann Pathania

Abstract: Mary Shelley's Frankenstein explores the themes of femininity and masculinity. The novel has captivated readers with its unique examination of the human condition, scientific ambition, and the consequences of unchecked masculinity. Using feminist and gender studies perspectives, this interpretation analyses how Shelley represents dualities and demonstrates how her education through social norms and family relationships surrounded her with gender roles. Shelley’s tumultuous romance with the renowned romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and their unconventional marriage not only profoundly influenced his perspective on the world but also served as inspiration for his works. However, there was a persistent belief that the conflicts in their marriage fuelled his appreciation for the masculine power and scientific arrogance that were characteristic of Romanticism. The character of Frankenstein, embodied by Victor Frankenstein, serves as a focal point for Mary Shelley's critique of the overwhelming power of masculinity, which comes at the expense of human lives and leads to profound loneliness. This loneliness stems from the neglect of familial responsibilities. Shelley's admiration for her mother's feminist writings, alongside her complicated feelings toward her father, William Godwin, significantly influenced the development of themes such as parental abandonment and the longing for maternal affection in her novel, Frankenstein. The loss of her mother and her separation from her family were significant events in Mary Shelley's life that greatly influenced her writing of the novel. In "Frankenstein," she examines themes of parental responsibility and the consequences of indifference. This work emphasises how Shelley's personal experiences contributed to her feminist perspective and her critique of gender issues. By re-evaluating Shelley's family influences within the framework of feminism and gender studies, this article argues that her experiences provide valuable insights into gender representation and the role of women in nineteenth-century literature. The male characters in the novel are depicted as self-serving and ambitious, while the female characters consistently demonstrate fidelity and a willingness to obey.

Keywords: Mary Shelley, feminist perspective, criticism, gender, Frankenstein, exploration, and consequences of neglect.

Article Info: Received: 30 Apr 2025; Received in revised form: 23 May 2025; Accepted: 01 Jun 2025; Available online: 07 Jun 2025

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.103.78