"How ignorant art thou?" Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Abstract

An appreciation for classic literature among young readers is slowly losing its strength in numbers. It is rare that young readers look to classic literature for any other purposes other than academic assignment. Readers distance themselves from authors and works of literature, because they are often unaware of the state at which an author was writing. If readers pay close attention to the text, analyze the characters and relationships that exist within the novel, and couple it with some background information concerning Mary Shelley and her personal experiences, parallels between author and text can be made. This exercise in recognizing and appreciating the author brings the author off the pages of a textbook, and into the mind of readers. Shelley transforms from a vague concept to a conscious being inside the mind of readers. Motivating readers to examine the text in relation to the author can give readers the practice in critical thinking that is necessary later in life. he how prevalent an author may be in his or her text. If readers would approach reading with an open mind and awareness of the author, readers would be able to gain a more fulfilled reading experience. Taking time to unpack a piece of literature is crucial, especially in young readers as it aids in developing and cultivating critical thinking skills. Mary Shelley’s novel, Frankenstein poses at the perfect model to allow readers to analyze the text in relationship to the author.