Be prepared for a few surprises when you start Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley (1797-1851). While the story is known through its many adaptations and is often presented as a work of science fiction, expectations might not align with the actual novel. Published when she was only 20, Shelley was more focused on crafting a gothic novel than on delving into the intricacies of physics. She provides little detail on the scientific aspects and instead emphasises the bond between creator and creation. Like modern science fiction, however, the novel raises ethical and philosophical questions about technology.

The novel features a frame story. In letters to his sister in England, Robert Walton recounts his expedition to the Arctic. His ship encounters a stranger stranded on the ice, who hesitates to come on board as he claims to be in pursuit of a ‘dæmon’. When the man finally does enter the ship, he introduces himself as Victor Frankenstein and begins to explain his quest. Victor’s narrative is one of a loving family in Geneva and an unbounded ambition to push the boundaries of science further than anyone before him.

Life and death appeared to me ideal bounds, which I should first break through, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me.

When his creation turns out to be a freak of nature science, Victor is filled with regret. Careless to name the creature or even pursue it when it flees, he tries to continue with his life. Henceforth, Victor is haunted by his creation, which has not forgotten its creator. As death begins to surround him, Victor becomes convinced that his ‘monster’ is responsible for it. When they finally confront each other, the creature reveals itself to be surprisingly eloquent and intelligent. Its tale is one of rejection and despair. Though consumed by wrath, it pleads with Victor for pity and justice by asking him to create a female companion. In the end, Victor refuses, thereby sealing the fate of both creator and creation.

There is a melancholic touch in each of the narrators’ stories that deepens the sense of tragedy. While I’m not entirely sure of Shelley’s intentions regarding her characters, I found the creature’s plea particularly moving. Victor, on the other hand, fits the archetype of the self-pitying protagonist. (Oh, you 19th-century authors!) Despite some serious questions about the story’s credibility (beyond the scientific elements, of course, which are to be accepted), it is far more compelling to focus on the larger themes. Shelley depicts man as an indifferent replacement for God, ultimately a victim of his own ambitions. For that, Frankenstein has rightfully earned its place as a classic.

Next on my list is [b:Poor Things|199278401|Poor Things|Alasdair Gray|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1699294543l/199278401.SY75.jpg|2404337] by Alasdair Gray.

The monster saw my determination in my face, and gnashed his teeth in the impotence of anger. ‘Shall each man,’ cried he, ‘find a wife for his bosom, and each beast have his mate, and I be alone? I had feelings of affection, and they were requited by detestation and scorn. Man, you may hate; but beware! Your hours will pass in dread and misery, and soon the bolt will fall which must ravish from you your happiness for ever. Are you to be happy, while I grovel in the intensity of my wretchedness? You can blast my other passions; but revenge remains – revenge, henceforth dearer than light or food! I may die; but first you, my tyrant and tormentor, shall curse the sun that gazes on your misery. Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful. I will watch with the wiliness of a snake, that I may sting with its venom. Man, you shall repent of the injuries you inflict.’