2010 09 13 Kim Sanley Robinson Author Interview
This is a theme worthy of such a famous novel, can be analogized to aspects of modern society and is one that lingers with the reader even after the book has been laid down. It is also a theme that is addressed upon occasion in the Frankenstein movies, particularly in Bride of Frankenstein (1935). While downplaying its horror elements, Frankenstein is always compelling, as it tees up a debate between Victor and the monster over their respective treatments of each other.
Even though Shelley has created a vicious killing machine in the monster, it is hard not to have sympathy for his plight, once again showing the dichotomy in the story. While Frankenstein is not primarily a horror story, the novel’s tale of revenge, including the threats of the monster against Victor Frankenstein, create a compelling tale of suspense, among the philosophical musings. Near the end of the story, the roles reverse and it is Victor who is seeking revenge against his creature, stalking him all over the European continent before almost finding him in the frozen North.
However, Victor has, indeed, created a Frankenstein monster and it is the creature, in the end, who achieves the final act of revenge. Whether Frankenstein is a horror story or a mystery, a romance or a philosophical novel, after almost 200 years since its first publication, the book is still being read and not just because of its influence on subsequent horror films.