When Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein in 1818, she created more than just a horror story. She crafted a haunting metaphor for how society treats those who are different. The creature, abandoned and rejected, is feared not because of his actions but because of his appearance.
Who Is the Real Monster?
At its core, Frankenstein explores how societies create outcasts. The monster, despite his intelligence and desire for connection, is instantly deemed dangerous. He is never given a chance to belong, mirroring the real-world experiences of marginalized groups.
Throughout history, fear of the "other" has led to discrimination, racism, and violence. Shelley’s novel forces us to ask: Are we afraid of people who are different, or are we taught to fear them?
Connecting Frankenstein to Modern Conversations on Race
The themes of Frankenstein resonate today more than ever. In discussing racism, we can use Shelley’s text to challenge students to think about:
· Who decides who belongs?
· How does fear fuel discrimination?
· What happens when we reject instead of understand?
By reframing Frankenstein as a story of prejudice rather than just a Gothic thriller, we help teens see how literature can reflect real-world issues—and inspire change.
Want to explore this theme with your students? Discover Echoes of Empathy today.
