Essay Title:
The Theme of Isolation in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Introduction
1. Hook: Summarise how the idea of solitude appeals to readers and why it is
universally relatable.
2. Context: Introduce Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Explain how the historical context
of Romanticism influences the novel's exploration of alienation and loneliness.
3. Statement of the Thesis: Give a concise explanation of your main point, such as "In
Frankenstein, Shelley uses the theme of isolation to show the destructive
consequences of a lack of companionship and social bonds, affecting both Victor
Frankenstein and his creation."
Body Paragraphs
Paragraph 1: Victor Frankenstein’s Self-Isolation
1. Topic Sentence: Describe how Victor becomes isolated as a result of his quest for
knowledge.
2. Proof/Quotes: Give examples from the text, such as Victor's unwavering devotion to
his academics at the expense of his friends and family.
3. Analysis: Talk about how Victor's relationships and mental health suffer as a result of
this seclusion, ultimately leading to his demise.
4. Link: Make a connection between Victor's seclusion and the larger themes of
accountability and the perils of scientific aspiration.
Paragraph 2: The Creature’s Enforced Isolation
1. Topic Sentence: Explain how the creature's appearance and lack of a social identity
caused him to feel alone.
2. Proof/Quotes: Give examples of instances where the creature tries to interact with
humans but is turned away, such as when he sees the De Lacey family.
3. Examine how the creature's loneliness fuels his resentment and thirst for vengeance.
Stress the creature's craving for company and how his behaviour is motivated by
society's rejection of him.
4. Link: Compare Victor's chosen isolation with the creature's forced seclusion.
Paragraph 3: The Consequences of Isolation
The Theme of Isolation in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Introduction
1. Hook: Summarise how the idea of solitude appeals to readers and why it is
universally relatable.
2. Context: Introduce Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. Explain how the historical context
of Romanticism influences the novel's exploration of alienation and loneliness.
3. Statement of the Thesis: Give a concise explanation of your main point, such as "In
Frankenstein, Shelley uses the theme of isolation to show the destructive
consequences of a lack of companionship and social bonds, affecting both Victor
Frankenstein and his creation."
Body Paragraphs
Paragraph 1: Victor Frankenstein’s Self-Isolation
1. Topic Sentence: Describe how Victor becomes isolated as a result of his quest for
knowledge.
2. Proof/Quotes: Give examples from the text, such as Victor's unwavering devotion to
his academics at the expense of his friends and family.
3. Analysis: Talk about how Victor's relationships and mental health suffer as a result of
this seclusion, ultimately leading to his demise.
4. Link: Make a connection between Victor's seclusion and the larger themes of
accountability and the perils of scientific aspiration.
Paragraph 2: The Creature’s Enforced Isolation
1. Topic Sentence: Explain how the creature's appearance and lack of a social identity
caused him to feel alone.
2. Proof/Quotes: Give examples of instances where the creature tries to interact with
humans but is turned away, such as when he sees the De Lacey family.
3. Examine how the creature's loneliness fuels his resentment and thirst for vengeance.
Stress the creature's craving for company and how his behaviour is motivated by
society's rejection of him.
4. Link: Compare Victor's chosen isolation with the creature's forced seclusion.
Paragraph 3: The Consequences of Isolation
