Daughter of renowned literary writers Mary Wollstonecraft, donned as the ‘Mother of Feminism’ and radical atheist William Godwin, Shelley’s novel Frankenstein is imbued with references to her own life, whether that be the beliefs of ethical treatment and the corruption of the justice system (she inherited from her father), her fascination with the twisted fate between parent and child (she gained from the countless deaths of her own children) or her interest in death (of which she developed from the sudden and numerous deaths of her loved ones throughout her life, whether that be from illnesses, suicide or boating accidents).
Her novel is a cautionary tale which explores the dangers of reckless pursuit into knowledge, coinciding with the rise of the Industrial Revolution, the flaws of human nature, the importance of companionship and community and the ethical and moral responsibilities that come with scientific discovery.