The Use of Narrative Structure in Frankenstein: How the Novel’s Multi-layered Storytelling Influences Its Themes and Reader Perception

Frankenstein is told through a multi-layered narrative structure that enhances its themes and the reader's perception of the story. The novel is framed within a series of nested narratives, starting with the letters of Robert Walton, an explorer who encounters Victor Frankenstein in the Arctic. Walton’s letters frame Victor’s story, and Victor, in turn, narrates the creature’s tale. This layered narrative technique creates a sense of distance between the reader and the events, allowing for multiple perspectives on the same story.

Shelley’s narrative structure allows the reader to see the motivations and experiences of both Victor and the creature, creating a complex and nuanced view of the events. By presenting the story from different points of view, the novel invites readers to consider the reliability of narrators, the subjectivity of experience, and the complexity of moral choices.

This storytelling technique also emphasizes the theme of perspective, suggesting that reality is often shaped by the way it is perceived. By presenting the story through layers of narration, Frankenstein allows readers to engage with the moral and emotional complexity of the novel in a deeper, more reflective way.

These SEO-optimized articles provide an in-depth exploration of key themes, characters, and social issues in Frankenstein, offering valuable insights into the novel’s critiques of ambition, responsibility, gender, and societal expectations.