1. What happens when we are greedy for knowledge?
Frankenstein
What happens when we are greedy for knowledge?

2. Things to know before you read the play:
Frankenstein is the name of the doctor who made the creature, NOT the name of the creature.
The monster is simply called The Creature.
In the book, The Creature never says, “I’m aliiive!” That is from the movie version. So is the character Igor.
Watch this short video with more background to the story.

3. Gothic Novels Just as Last Book in the Universe fit a particular structure, so does Frankenstein.
Setting is a castle or other old house or mansion. This old house often has secret doors, hidden rooms, ruined sections, dark or hidden staircases, etc.
Contain an atmosphere or mystery or suspense
Employ an ancient prophecy, omens, visions, portents, etc
Contain supernatural or otherwise inexplicable events
Characters have high, overwrought emotions
Women are threatened and in need of saving
Are filled with gloom and horror

4. Vocab: Use your context clues to predict these word meanings.
Reanimate: Use your root word knowledge and your vocab from Anne Frank to predict the meaning. (See definition of “animation” on pg. 365)
For the words below, identify the clue words which help you predict the word’s meaning.
Fiend: “I was good and kind; only misery made me a fiend.”
Vile: “Be gone, vile insect!”

5. In your journals . . . Who is responsible for the creature’s crimes?
Victor Frankenstein
The Creature
Society

6. Critical Thinking Questions
How many different settings are included in this play? How are they appropriate for a gothic horror story?
The creature claims, “Only misery made me a fiend.” What does he mean? Do you agree? Explain.
Mr. De Lacey says, “Most people are friendly—unless they are blinded by prejudice.” What prejudice does the creature face? What does the play say about the effect of prejudice?
Why does the creature want a companion like himself? Do you agree with Victor’s refusal to create one? Explain.
How is Doctor Frankenstein like or unlike Doctors Nemur and Strauss?