The hosts explore the misconceptions and personal experiences with the novel Frankenstein, and delve into its framing devices. They discuss the historical events that influenced Mary Shelley's creation, the messy situation of its publication, and even explore the concept of interconnected telephone systems achieving sentience. The inspirations behind the novel, including attempts at reanimating dead tissue and a Playboy magazine story, are also explored. Plus, there is a bonus show where the hosts discuss Victor Frankenstein's strange choices.
Mary Shelley left her name off the novel Frankenstein to protect her children, leading to conspiracy theories and debates about the different versions of the book.
The stage play adaptation of Frankenstein popularized the story and set the tone for future adaptations, shaping our cultural tropes and portrayals of the iconic character.
Deep dives
Love and Chaos: The Origins of Frankenstein
The novel Frankenstein was written within a love pentagon during a summertime volcanic winter.
Anonymity and Controversy: Mary Shelley and Frankenstein
Mary Shelley left her name off the novel Frankenstein to protect her children, and the anonymous publication led to conspiracy theories and debates about the different versions of the book.
The Influence of the Stage Play: Frankenstein's Cultural Tropes
Almost all of our cultural tropes and portrayals of Frankenstein come from a stage play adaptation that popularized the story and set the tone for future adaptations.
Science Fiction's Influence: Frankenstein and the Invention of the Internet
Arthur C. Clarke's science fiction story, 'Dial F for Frankenstein,' about sentient telephones, influenced Tim Berners-Lee and other creators of the internet.