Frankenstein: Page 65-81

Frankenstein

By: Mary Shelley

In her own writing, Mary Shelley makes numerous references or allusions to outside sources and literature. Such an allusion is made by the creation itself as the creature describes himself saying, "Remember, that I am the creature; I out to be thy Adam...(Page 69)" This is a reference to the creation story of the Catholic faith as Frankenstein's creation describes himself as a being that was made in the image of goodness, but which did bad as Adam sinned. Further allusions are made as to "the ass and the lap-dog" to compare the ironic punishing of good behavior as the monster is punished simply for his appearance despite his intrinsic goodness. Countless allusions are made throughout the novel such as to the Canto III and Ariosto's Orlando Furioso. These allusions serve a powerful purpose in connecting the past to the present. Additionally, the allusions connect the tale to society  just as the monster connects outside information to his understanding of people and culture. The characters of the other stories serve the importance of illustrating what the characters are truly like in Mary Shelley's novel. Most importantly, it adds to the depth of the tale as it further develops the frames story stile.  By connecting the story to outside sources, the book becomes connected to society. It is through these allusions that the novel fully establishes clear meaning and becomes the timeless masterpiece it has become.