The Cambridge Companion to Frankenstein

Sixteen original essays by leading scholars on Mary Shelley's novel provide an introduction to Frankenstein and its various critical contexts.

Andrew Smith (Edited by)

9781107086197, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 25 August 2016

288 pages, 10 b/w illus.
23.6 x 15.7 x 2 cm, 0.55 kg

'Amid the whirl of bicentennial celebrations of the genesis and first publication of Frankenstein, any tempered reappraisal of the myths surrounding Mary Shelley's novel is welcome, and Andrew Smith's Companion performs this function admirably.' Scott Brewster, Notes and Queries

The Cambridge Companion to Frankenstein consists of sixteen original essays on Mary Shelley's novel by leading scholars, providing an invaluable introduction to Frankenstein and its various critical contexts. Theoretically informed but accessibly written, this volume relates Frankenstein to various social, literary, scientific and historical contexts, and outlines how critical theories such as ecocriticism, posthumanism, and queer theory generate new and important discussion in illuminating ways. The volume also explores the cultural afterlife of the novel including its adaptations in various media such as drama, film, television, graphic novels, and literature aimed at children and young adults. Written by an international team of leading experts, the essays provide new insights into the novel and the various critical approaches which can be applied to it. The volume is an essential guide to students and academics who are interested in Frankenstein and who wish to know more about its complex literary history.

Introduction Andrew Smith
Part I. Historical and Literary Contexts: 1. Frankenstein: its composition and publication Charles E. Robinson
2. Contextualising sources Lisa Vargo
3. Romantic contexts Jerrold E. Hogle
4. The context of the novel Catherine Lanone
5. Scientific contexts Andrew Smith
6. Frankenstein's politics Adriana Craciun
Part II. Theories and Forms: 7. The female Gothic Angela Wright
8. What is queer about Frankenstein? George E. Haggerty
9. Race and Frankenstein Patrick Brantlinger
10. Frankenstein and ecocriticism Timothy Morton
11. The posthuman Andy Mousley
Part III. Adaptations: 12. Dramatic adaptations of Frankenstein Diane Long Hoeveler
13. Frankenstein and film Mark Jancovich
14. Literature David Punter
15. Frankenstein in comics and graphic novels Christopher Murray
16. Growing up Frankenstein: adaptations for young readers Karen Coats and Farran Norris Sands.

Subject Areas: Fiction-related items [FZ], Graphic novels [FX], Fantasy [FM], Science fiction [FL], Classic horror & ghost stories [FKC], Literature & literary studies [D]