
Mary Shelley is a key figure in British literature, best known for her groundbreaking work "Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus." But who was this woman who made history in literature and science fiction? Born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, she was the daughter of two progressive thinkers, William Godwin and Mary Wollstonecraft, and the wife of the famous poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. Her fascinating journey, marked by complex relationships, personal tragedies and a relentless quest for knowledge, gave rise to works that continue to influence modern culture.
In this article, we’ll explore Mary Shelley’s life and work, from her early days as Mary Godwin to her influence on the Romantic movement, the Gothic genre, and even steampunk. We’ll also dive into her relationships, particularly with Percy Shelley, and how they shaped her writing. Finally, we’ll examine her legacy and lasting impact on literature and beyond.
The Beginnings of Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin
Mary Shelley, born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin in 1797 in London, is an iconic figure in Victorian literature. She is the daughter of two renowned intellectuals of their time: Mary Wollstonecraft, a feminist writer and philosopher, and William Godwin, a journalist and political philosopher. This union of two brilliant minds gave birth to a woman who would revolutionize literature and science fiction.
Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin's upbringing was unconventional. Her father, William Godwin, believed strongly in the education and emancipation of women, ideas he shared with his late wife, Mary Wollstonecraft. As such, Mary Godwin grew up in an environment where books, ideas, and intellectual discussion were commonplace. This family setting did much to shape her literary genius and prepare her for life as a writer.
Mary Godwin was also influenced by the works of her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, especially her most famous book, "Vindication of the Rights of Woman." This text laid the foundation for modern feminism and had a significant impact on the young Mary. She grew up knowing that women could contribute significantly to society, not only as mothers and wives, but also as intellectuals and writers.
Mary Godwin and Percy Bysshe Shelley: A Complex Relationship

The relationship between Mary Godwin and Percy Bysshe Shelley is one of the most fascinating and complex in the history of literature. Percy Shelley, a British Romantic poet, met Mary Godwin when she was only 16 years old. At that time, Percy Shelley was already married, but that did not stop him from falling head over heels in love with the young Mary. The couple began an affair that shocked the right-thinking society of the time.
Percy Shelley was a man of radical ideas, both in politics and in love. He was a strong advocate of individual liberty and social equality, ideas that resonated with Mary Godwin. Their relationship was based on a mutual admiration for each other's talents and a passion for revolutionary ideas. This relationship had a profound impact on Mary Shelley's work, including the creation of her masterpiece, "Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus."
Mary and Percy's relationship was also marked by tragedy, including the early death of their daughter and exile in France and Italy. Despite these trials, their love and intellectual collaboration endured. Percy Shelley even helped edit "Frankenstein" and encouraged Mary in her writing.
The Creation of Frankenstein, the first science fiction novel

The creation of " Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus " is a milestone in the history of literature and science fiction. Written by Mary Shelley in 1818, this gothic novel was born during a stay at Lake Geneva, in the company of Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron. The trio had set themselves a challenge: to each write a horror story. It was in this context that Mary Shelley imagined the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a creature by assembling parts of corpses.
This novel is considered the first of the science fiction genre. It addresses profound themes such as the limits of science, ethics, and the human condition, while introducing the concept of the "modern Prometheus," a creator who defies the laws of nature.
"Frankenstein" has had a lasting impact on literature and popular culture, inspiring numerous gothic films , adaptations and academic discussions. It remains one of Mary Shelley's most influential works and a timeless classic of science fiction.
The inspiration behind Frankenstein: A Night at Lake Geneva
The story of the creation of "Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus" is almost as famous as the novel itself. The inspiration came during a stormy night spent at Lake Geneva, Switzerland. Mary Shelley, accompanied by Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron, entered an informal competition to write the best horror story. It was that night that the idea for Frankenstein was born.
The wild nature and storms around Lake Geneva provided the perfect backdrop for Mary Shelley's fertile imagination. The setting captured the essence of the Gothic novel and provided an ideal atmosphere for the birth of one of literature's most iconic characters: Frankenstein's monster.
That night at Lake Geneva was not just a simple evening among friends; it marked the birth of a literary genre and made Mary Shelley a pioneer of science fiction.
Mary Shelley's Lesser-Known Works: From Gothic Novel to "The Last Man"
While Mary Shelley is best known for "Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus," her work doesn't stop there. She also wrote other novels, including "The Last Man," a post-apocalyptic science fiction work published in 1826. The novel explores themes of loneliness, loss, and humanity, and is considered a precursor to the post-apocalyptic genre.
Besides "The Last Man," Mary Shelley wrote several other novels and short stories that fall into the genre of the Gothic novel. These works, although less famous, are equally important for understanding the scope and depth of her literary talent.
These lesser-known works demonstrate Mary Shelley's versatility as a writer and her ability to tackle a variety of genres and themes. They also confirm her status as a pioneer in the fields of the Gothic novel and science fiction.
Mary Shelley and the Romantic Movement: Influence and Legacy
Mary Shelley is often associated with the Romantic movement, a literary and artistic movement of the early 19th century. Married to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, an iconic figure of Romanticism, she was immersed in a circle of intellectuals and artists who profoundly influenced her work.
His novel "Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus" is a perfect example of the fusion between Romantic ideas and Gothic elements. The book explores themes dear to Romanticism, such as individualism, emotion and nature, while posing ethical and philosophical questions.
Mary Shelley's influence on the Romantic movement is not limited to her most famous work. She helped enrich and diversify the genre, incorporating elements of science fiction and social criticism.
Her lasting impact on literature and culture extends beyond the Romantic movement. She is considered a pioneer in several literary genres, and her legacy continues to be studied and celebrated today.
Mary Shelley and the Gothic: An undeniable influence
Mary Shelley is a leading figure in the Gothic style , a literary genre that emerged in the late 18th century. Her most famous work, "Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus," is often cited as a masterpiece of the Gothic novel. The book combines elements of terror, mystery, and the supernatural, typical characteristics of the genre.
The influence of Gothic on Mary Shelley is undeniable. She was able to integrate Gothic themes and motifs in an innovative way, mixing them with philosophical and ethical questions. This unique blend gave birth to a complex body of work that has left its mark on the history of literature.
"Frankenstein" is not only a horror novel; it is also a profound reflection on the human condition, science and morality. These themes, explored through the prism of the Gothic, make Mary Shelley an influential and avant-garde author in this literary genre.
Mary Shelley and Steampunk: An Avant-Garde Vision
Although Mary Shelley lived long before the emergence of the steampunk genre, her influence on this subgenre of science fiction is undeniable. Steampunk , which blends elements of science fiction with a Victorian aesthetic, has some of its roots in Mary Shelley's work.
"Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus" can be considered a precursor to steampunk due to its exploration of themes of science and technology. The character of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who uses technology to create life, is an archetype that has been taken up in many steampunk works.
Mary Shelley's avant-garde approach to science and technology, as well as her penchant for gothic themes, made her an influential figure in the development of the steampunk genre. Her work continues to inspire authors, artists, and creators who explore this fascinating subgenre of science fiction.
Life After Percy Shelley: A Continuing Contribution to Literature
The death of Percy Bysshe Shelley in 1822 was a turning point in Mary Shelley's life, but it did not end her literary career. On the contrary, she continued to write and publish, asserting her independence as a writer and intellectual.
After her husband's death, Mary Shelley published several works, including The Last Man, a post-apocalyptic novel that explores themes of loneliness and despair. She also wrote biographies, articles, and literary criticism, making significant contributions to 19th-century British literature.
Her work after Percy Shelley's death demonstrates not only her resilience, but also her commitment to the ideas and themes that were important to her. She continued to explore questions of science, ethics, and society, while leaving a lasting legacy that transcends her time and context.
Mary Shelley remains an iconic figure in British and world literature. From her early days as Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin to her role in the Romantic movement, to her contributions to the Gothic genre and even steampunk, her influence is undeniable. After the death of her husband, poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, she continued to enrich the literary landscape with diverse and avant-garde works.
Emily Bronte: A Feather in the Moor Wind
His novel "Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus" is not only a pillar of the Gothic novel but also considered the first science fiction novel. This masterpiece continues to be studied and adapted, from film to theater, testifying to its lasting impact on various genres and media.
Mary Shelley was much more than a novelist; she was a writer, a biographer, and an intellectual who left an indelible mark on the history of literature. Her work continues to inspire and fascinate, making her a timeless icon whose legacy endures through the ages.