Robert Walton's Letters to His Sister
The story begins with Robert Walton's letters to his sister, describing his sea voyage to the North Pole. His crew rescues Victor and The Creature, and Victor begins telling his tale. Eventually, Robert's ship gets stuck in ice and they decide to return home.
Victor's Tale Being Told to Robert Walton
Victor's narrative begins with him growing up in Geneva. He goes to college, builds the Creature, and is devastated when the Creature kills Clerval and Victor's loved ones. Victor devotes the rest of his life to hunting down The Creature, eventually reaching the Arctic. The unfolding of Victor's story is resolved in Robert's letters.
The Creature's Tale Being Told to Victor
The Creature's story unfolds as he comes across the cottage, learns language, and becomes terrified of Victor. After leaving the cottage to find Victor, he is shot in the shoulder and swears revenge against all humans. He kills William, demands Victor make him a wife, and his story is fully resolved in the other narratives.
Importance of Non-Linear Storytelling
The non-linear storytelling in Frankenstein allows for the full narrative to be told from different characters' perspectives. The use of an epistolary frame story provides a degree of separation from Robert, allowing little focus to be given to him. The story embedded within Victor's point of view allows us to see the events from The Creature's perspective and empathize with him. Victor's point of view is warped by emotion and irrational thoughts that came with his situation, providing a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations.
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Non-Linear Storytelling
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a classic novel that exemplifies non-linear storytelling. The use of different narratives and perspectives enhances the depth and complexity of the plot. Understanding the importance of non-linear narration in literature can provide readers with a unique insight into the characters and their experiences.
In conclusion, the non-linear storytelling in Frankenstein serves to provide a comprehensive understanding of the characters' motivations and actions. The use of multiple narratives and perspectives enhances the depth and complexity of the plot, creating a truly immersive reading experience.
By using non-linear storytelling, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein remains a timeless and influential work in the realm of literature, captivating readers with its intricate narrative structure and compelling plot points.
