"The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters": Questioning the Dualism Reason/Nature in Mary Shelley´s Frankenstein

Soto Paciencia, Beatriz
Arizti Martín, Bárbara (dir.)

Universidad de Zaragoza, FFYL, 2023

Graduado en Estudios Ingleses

Abstract: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein has worked as a cautionary tale for more than two hundred years. Since its first publication at the beginning of the nineteenth century, the novel has been highly influential and many researchers have studied the text in depth. This dissertation discusses scientific responsibility and the dangers of unethical practices in science while analyzing the relationship between reason and nature present in the novel. Although this dualism has traditionally favored reason (humanity) over nature, Shelley’s story questions it by highlighting the importance of nature and pointing at the flaws of an ambitious mind, like Frankenstein’s. Ultimately, this dissertation proves that the novel defends a more equitable relationship between the two while criticizing the lack of balance of his main character.

Tipo de Trabajo Académico: Trabajo Fin de Grado