Frankenstein: Introduction & Setting

Study Notes

The narrator is writing a letter to Mrs. Saville from St. Petersburg in the 1700s, expressing excitement about an enterprise that has begun smoothly despite initial fears.
He describes his journey northward, feeling inspired by the cold northern breeze and envisioning the polar region as beautiful and full of wonders.
The narrator is determined to discover a passage near the pole or unlock the secret of the magnet, believing it will benefit mankind for generations to come.
His passion for exploration was ignited by reading about voyages to the North Pacific Ocean, despite his father's wishes for him to avoid a seafaring life.
The narrator dedicated himself to this expedition after inheriting his cousin's fortune, undergoing hardships to prepare for the voyage, including working with whale fishers and studying various subjects.
He reflects on his decision to pursue glory and great purpose over a life of ease and luxury, expressing moments of self-doubt amidst firm courage and resolution.
The narrator plans to hire a ship in Archangel, Russia, engage experienced sailors, and set sail in June, uncertain of when he will return, expressing love and gratitude to Mrs. Saville.- The narrator, Robert Walton, is in Archangel in the 1700s preparing for a voyage to the unexplored regions with a crew of reliable sailors he has hired, but he laments the lack of a friend or companion to share in his joys and support him in times of disappointment.
He reflects on his self-education, feeling illiterate compared to younger schoolboys, and expresses a desire for a friend with whom he can share his enthusiasm and who can help regulate his mind and plans.
Despite feeling lonely and uneducated, Robert Walton is determined to proceed with his voyage, delayed by severe winter weather but hopeful to sail soon as spring approaches.
He describes his crew, highlighting the integrity and courage of his master and the incredible kindness and sacrifice of his lieutenant who gave up his love for another man.
Robert Walton's passion for the sea and exploration is fueled by his love for the marvelous and the adventurous spirit instilled by reading imaginative works, leading him to venture into uncharted territories.
He reassures his sister, Margaret, that he is safe and in good spirits on his voyage despite the dangers of floating ice sheets and stiff gales, expressing confidence in his crew's boldness and firm resolve.
Robert Walton concludes his letter with a determination to persevere, achieve success in his endeavors, and a heartfelt message to his beloved sister to remember him with affection.- A ship in the 1700s gets surrounded by ice, endangering the crew, but the ice eventually breaks, freeing the ship.
The crew sees a giant man-like figure riding a sledge pulled by dogs on the ice, far from any known land.
The crew rescues a European man from a sledge that drifted towards their ship on a large piece of ice.
The rescued man is in a wretched condition, nearly frozen and emaciated, but gradually recovers with care.
The rescued man is melancholic and desperate, showing gratitude towards his rescuers but also expressing deep grief.
The rescued man takes a keen interest in a sledge that he seems to be following and becomes more lively as he recovers.
The narrator grows fond of the rescued man, admiring his intelligence, wisdom, and sensitivity to nature despite his tragic circumstances.
The rescued man reveals that he has suffered great misfortunes and offers to share his story with the narrator to serve as a cautionary tale for his own quest for knowledge.
The narrator is eager to hear the rescued man's story but also shows empathy and concern for his well-being.
The text sets the stage for the rescued man to begin narrating his tale the next day, promising an intriguing and likely harrowing story to follow.

Description

Explore the beginning of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' through a series of letters from Robert Walton as he prepares for an expedition to uncharted territories in the 1700s. Encounter the narrator's excitement, determination, and loneliness, setting the stage for a mysterious encounter with a rescued man in the icy wilderness.