Frankenstein Key Theme: Power and Control (AQA GCSE English Literature) : Revision Note

Power and control timeline  

The theme of power and control in key chapters of Frankenstein: 

What are the elements of power and control in Frankenstein?

• Victor’s control as creator: Victor initially holds power as the creator as he brings the creature to life. His ambition to play God reflects his desire for power over the natural order: “A new species would bless me as its creator and source”. His ambition is also linked to a desire to gain recognition and it is this desire that results in his downfall. Victor also controls the narrative through his knowledge of the creature’s existence and therefore he controls how the creature is presented to the reader.

• The creature’s revenge: The power dynamic shifts in the narrative as the creature gains control over Victor. The creature achieves this through revenge, creating fear and despair: “if I cannot inspire love, I will cause fear”. The creature seeks power by demanding a female companion and uses violence to punish Victor for the suffering he has imposed upon him: “You are my creator, but I am your master; obey!” 

• Society and prejudice: The creature is powerless against societal prejudice and is rejected because of his appearance: “Am I not shunned and hated by all mankind?” His grotesque features cause fear and hostility and this influences his transformation from a benevolent being to a vengeful monster.

The impact of power and control on characters

Why does Shelley use the theme of power and control in her novella?

1.  Setting and atmosphere 

• Establishes the power dynamics between the creator and the creation

• Creates an atmosphere of fear and tension as the power shifts from Victor to the creature

2. Plot driver 

• Drives Victor’s ambition to play God and control life, with the creature eventually gaining control through fear and manipulation

3. Audience appeal 

• Raises ethical concerns about the consequences of power and control, particularly concerning life and death

• Evokes empathy for both the creature and Victor by depicting the power struggles between the two characters

4. Narrative device   

• Creates irony as Victor is depicted as a character seeking power over life, but he eventually becomes powerless and terrorised by his own creation

Exam-style questions on the theme of power and control

Try planning a response to the following essay questions as part of your revision of the theme of power and control: 

• How does Shelley explore the theme of power and control through Victor’s ambition? (You could start with Victor’s desire to play God by creating life and how this leads to the deaths of his loved ones.)

• How does Shelley use the relationship between Victor and the creature to explore power and control? (You could start with Victor’s initial control as the creator and how this power dynamic shifts when the creature seeks revenge.)