1. during which period in history did mary shelley write frankenstein, and what were some of its social behavior codes that clashed with her personal life?

2. what circumstances in the summer of 1816 prompted mary shelley to write this novel?

3. which three characters in this novel have already died?

4. how does the creature’s desire for and acceptance remind you of anyone in your own life who has struggled to fit in or find from others who do not understand that person? do you believe the creature’s actions toward victor and his loved ones are justified? you might not approve of the killings, but do they make sense, and should he be blamed for them?

5. recalling the list of common traits of gothic literature in unit 1, what are at least five traits in frankenstein that make it gothic? you may look back at the list in unit 1, lesson 2 to refresh your memory.