Frankenstein is a classic horror novel written by Mary Shelley in 1818. It tells the story of a scientist named Victor Frankenstein, who creates a monster out of dead body parts. The monster, often referred to as simply "Frankenstein", is one of the most iconic characters in horror fiction. But what does he look like?
The Monster's Description
In Shelley's novel, the monster is described as having yellow, watery eyes, black lips, and a white skin that is almost translucent. He has long, stringy hair and a frame that is huge and deformed, with limbs that are disproportionately large. He is often seen wearing a shirt and trousers that are too small for him, and he wears no shoes. He is described as being eight feet tall, but this is likely an exaggeration.
The monster has an impressive intellect, and is capable of understanding and expressing complex emotions. He is also able to read and write, which is unusual for a creature of his size and shape. This makes him even more frightening, as it reinforces the idea that he is not just a mindless creature, but a thinking, feeling being.
The Monster in Popular Culture
The monster has been depicted in many different ways in popular culture. In the 1931 movie adaptation of Shelley's novel, the monster was portrayed by Boris Karloff, who later became synonymous with the character. Karloff's portrayal of the monster was more sympathetic than Shelley's original description, and he wore a flat-topped hat and an oversized coat. The monster also had a flat, square head in the movie, which is a far cry from Shelley's description of him.
In later adaptations of the Frankenstein story, the monster has been depicted in a variety of different ways. In some versions, he is portrayed as a sympathetic character, while in others he is seen as a dangerous creature who must be destroyed. He has also been portrayed as a tragic figure, and in some versions, he is portrayed as a sympathetic antihero.
The Monster in Video Games
The monster has also appeared in numerous video games, where he is often portrayed as a villain or an enemy. In some games, he is the main antagonist, while in others he is a minor character. In the 1996 game Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, the monster appears as the final boss. He is also a playable character in the fighting games Marvel vs. Capcom 3 and Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3.
Conclusion
Frankenstein is one of the most iconic characters in horror fiction, and he has been portrayed in many different ways in literature, movies, and video games. His original description in Shelley's novel is quite different from the way he is portrayed in popular culture, but this only adds to his mystique. Frankenstein is a character that will continue to fascinate and terrify people for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who created Frankenstein?
Frankenstein was created by scientist Victor Frankenstein in the novel of the same name written by Mary Shelley in 1818.
What does Frankenstein look like?
In Shelley's novel, Frankenstein is described as having yellow, watery eyes, black lips, and a white skin that is almost translucent. He has long, stringy hair and a frame that is huge and deformed, with limbs that are disproportionately large.
Who portrayed Frankenstein in the 1931 movie?
Frankenstein was portrayed by Boris Karloff in the 1931 movie adaptation of Shelley's novel.
What video games has Frankenstein appeared in?
Frankenstein has appeared in numerous video games, including Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, Marvel vs. Capcom 3, and Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3.
Why is Frankenstein an iconic character?
Frankenstein is an iconic character because he is a complex, sympathetic creature that is both frightening and fascinating. He has been portrayed in many different ways in popular culture, which adds to his mystique.
What is the monster's real name?
The monster in Mary Shelley's novel does not have a name, he is simply referred to as "Frankenstein".
What does the monster wear?
The monster is often seen wearing a shirt and trousers that are too small for him, and he wears no shoes.
Does the monster have an intellect?
The monster has an impressive intellect, and is capable of understanding and expressing complex emotions. He is also able to read and write.
What is the monster's height?
The monster is described as being eight feet tall, but this is likely an exaggeration.
Is the monster a villain or an antihero?
The monster has been portrayed as both a villain and an antihero in different versions of the Frankenstein story.
Does the monster have any superpowers?
The monster does not have any superpowers in Mary Shelley's novel, but he does have an impressive intellect and the ability to read and write.
Where is the monster first described?
The monster is first described in Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein, which was published in 1818.
Is the monster alive or dead?
The monster is alive in Mary Shelley's novel, but he is often portrayed as a undead creature in popular culture.
What is the monster's purpose?
The monster's purpose in Mary Shelley's novel is to seek revenge against his creator, Victor Frankenstein.
How does the monster talk?
The monster is capable of expressing complex emotions and is able to read and write. He speaks in a deep, guttural voice.
What is the monster's attitude towards humans?
The monster initially has a negative attitude towards humans, but he eventually begins to appreciate their beauty and nobility.
What is the monster's fate?
The monster's fate is left ambiguous in Mary Shelley's novel. In some versions of the story, he is destroyed, while in others he lives out his days in peace.