Abstract

Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein is considered as one of the excellent gothic novels as well as the forerunner of science fiction. Since its publication in 1818, the novel has received extensive interpretations. As for the perspective of ecocriticism, the previous studies pay much attention to how nature is trampled by man, but neglect the subjectivity of nature. They seldom give proper attention to the abundant descriptions of nature in Frankenstein. This thesis aims to make a new interpretation of Frankenstein from the perspective of ecocriticism, in order to explore Mary Shelly’s ecological wisdom and find a possible way to rescue both human and nature in the context of global ecological crisis.

The thesis tries to explore the root of the conflict between human and nature by analysing their different images in the novel. 

Then, the present author tries to inquire into the author’s internal desire to appeal for harmony embodied in Frankenstein. Nature is a friend of human being who comforts and enlightens mankind. Man should be aware of the initiative and subjectivity of nature. And it is also of great importance for humans to control their extreme desires and passions and to return to both external and internal nature, which can truly achieve harmony between nature and human. 

Keywords: Frankenstein; ecocriticism; nature; conflict; harmony 

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

1.1 Studies at Home and Abroad-1

1.2 Research Questions and Significance-4

2. Human: An Ambitious Overreacher-6

2.1 Victor Frankenstein’s Morbid Passion for Scientism-6

2.2 Victor Frankenstein’s Wrong Concept of Anthropocentrism-8

3. Nature: A Comforting Being with Independent Voice-11

3.1 A Friend Providing Consolation to Human Beings-11

3.2 A Friend Giving Admonition to Human Beings-12

4. An Appeal for Harmony-15

4.1 Elizabeth and Henry Clerval: The Embodiment of Fusion Between Nature and Human-15

4.2 A Call for Harmony on Man’s Spiritual Level-17

5.Conclusion-19

Notes-21

References-22