Frankenstein (1831)
— Reading Companion Library
This has been curated by Prelum Classicum to deepen your understanding, discussion, and enjoyment of Mary Shelley’s masterpiece.
How to Use This Library
- Download any resource as a printable or digital companion.
- Pair one Core Tool with one Discussion Sheet for each reading sitting.
- Reflect using the journalling prompts or in your own commonplace book.
- Share insights at your next club, class, or online discussion.
- Every page is designed to help you read not only faster or deeper—but more responsibly.
Begin with the Reading Plan or Timeline, then explore themes, symbols, and ethical questions at your own pace.
Part of the Philanagnostes Reading Companion Series · Free for personal and educational use
Back homeCore Study Tools
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1. Edition Comparison (1818 · 1831 · Philanagnostes Edition)
See how Shelley reshaped her novel across editions—and how this version restores the 1831 text with contextual framing for modern readers.
2. Notes & Glossary (Selective A–Z)
Clarifies period terms, places, and scientific allusions from galvanism to Plainpalais—ideal quick reference while reading.
3. Reading Timeline (Story Chronology)
Follow the novel’s events in real-time order—from Walton’s Arctic letters to the final pursuit—to grasp cause and consequence at a glance.
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4. Printable Reading Plan (3 Sittings)
Read the novel in three balanced sessions with guiding questions for reflection—perfect for individual pacing or class schedules.
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5. Themes & Motifs + Reflective Prompts)
Concise essays on Shelley’s five moral engine—Creation without Care, Parentage & Abandonment, Ethics of Knowledge, Fire & Light, Isolation & Company—each with journaling questions to connect insight to modern life.
6. Motif Tracker (Printable Sheet)
Chart recurring motifs—light, hands, books, weather, and solitude—chapter by chapter. Visualise how Shelley builds meaning through pattern.
7. Places & Symbols Companion
Explore how setting becomes argument: Mont Blanc’s awe, the Orkneys’ refusal, the Arctic waste’s reckoning. Each entry pairs scene anchors with quick reflection prompts.
8. Character Dossier (Concise Profiles)
A one-page study of Victor, the Creature, Walton, Elizabeth, and Clerval—their arcs, contradictions, and ethical lenses.
9. Mini Bibliography (Mary Shelley & Context)
Selected further reading on Shelley’s works, Romantic science, and key criticism—your next step after the novel.
Discussion & Reflection Series
10. 60 Discussion Questions with Model Answers
Scene-specific analyses that highlight structure, style, and ethics—like having a guided seminar built into the text.
11. Discussion & Journalling Prompts
Personal reflection cues and creative letter-style entries for deeper engagement.
12. AI-Assisted Reading Prompts
Connect Shelley’s questions about creation and responsibility to modern AI and bioethics.
13. Book Club Prompts (20 One-Liners)
Instant conversation starters that move discussion from character sympathy to moral choice.
14. Book Club Formats (Three Meeting Plans)
Printable guide for 90-, 60-, and 30-minute sessions—balancing themes, emotion, and ethical dialogue.
Analytical & Creative Tools
15. Reflective Prompts Sheet
Four questions per motif that turn reading into ethical practice; pairs with the Motif Tracker.
16. Quotations & Commonplace
Five pivotal lines with context and reflection prompts, plus space to add your own favourites—ideal for journalling or club openings.
17. Places & Symbols Index (Expanded)
Ten signature settings and symbols with chapter anchors and guiding prompts.
18. Reading Timeline + Arc Pointers
A visual map of Victor’s and the Creature’s parallel journeys—from curiosity and hope to recognition and ruin.
