Frankenstein: Beginning at the end

[alfprof212]

What are the benefits of beginning at the end?  The novel comes full circle, with us first meeting Victor after he has “lost everything and cannot begin anew.”  Why would Shelley want to begin with the end?

[chad]

This was one is a little controversial. Do you see life as something that continually renews itself (i.e. something circular) or do you think Shelley may have? My guess is that Shelley did not want the world to rush to "meet its maker." That is, its possible that life, as we know it, may cease to exist. Fossil records support an entirely different "prehistoric era", at least.

Chad 

PS- the questions might be better left for the end of the book- if anyone else is reading?

Message Edited by chad on 03-12-2008 01:12 PM

[alfprof212]

I think as a Romantic era writer, Shelley would have leaned toward the optimistic side, but you're right in that this could be a controversial subject.  I hope so, at least.   

Thanks for the advice about the questions...I'm trying very hard not to give away too much information, though.  I think it might be important for some readers to know that they're beginning at the end so it will make sense if they're reading for the first time.  Of course there are some readers who will figure it out very quickly, but just in case...

Thanks again for your participation, chad!