A creation myth that gave birth to the modern science fiction novel
Frankenstein, Mary Shelley's chilling Gothic tale, lays bare the dark side of science and the horror within us all. Written following a nightmare when Shelley was only eighteen, the book reflects the cultural anxieties of the time, with the Industrial Revolution raising questions about the ethical boundaries of scientific advance and technology.
Despite being published in 1818, Shelley's novel remains highly relevant, prompting discussions on the consequences of unchecked technological ambition and societal rejection of the "Other." This seminal work is perfect for fans of the Gothic and science fiction genres.

Portrait

Mary Shelley (b. 1797) was an English novelist, short story writer, dramatist, essayist, biographer, and travel writer, best known for Frankenstein: or, The Modern Prometheus. She also edited and promoted the works of her husband, the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Anne DeLong is Associate Professor of English at Kutztown University in Pennsylvania, and has a PhD from Lehigh University. Her research interests include nineteenth-century British literature, the Gothic and feminist literary theory. She is co-editor of The Journal of Dracula Studies.
Tom Butler-Bowdon is series editor of the Capstone Classics series and has written introductions to Plato's Republic, Epictetus's Discourses, Machiavelli's The Prince, and Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations. A graduate of the London School of Economics, he is also the author of 50 Philosophy Classics, 50 Politics Classics, and 50 Psychology Classics.