The role of men and women are very different in this novel. The author of this book seems to be a prominent women, which makes it surprising that there is a lack of strong women in the novel. The role of women is to be there supporting their husbands and other men who are prominent. they are not appearing to be very confident or persistent for nobody stays relevant to the story for very long or in a major way. The men are dependant on themselves as much as the women around them. I think that there is a reason for down playing the women in a way. By doing this, it gives more emphasis to Victor and his Monster so that their actions stand out even more.

Frankenstein Essay Topic: Foils

How are Victor and Walton similar? Different? Both characters (along with the Creature) have a “quest.” Discuss and compare what each character is seeking, why he is seeking it and the results of his quest. Do you empathize with their quests or do you feel they are selfish and self-centered? Why?

Frankenstein Essay Topic: Social Responsibility

Frankenstein in many ways embodies the Romantic ideal of the inherent goodness or man and social responsibility. Discuss how the Frankenstein family is socially responsible, and contrast their actions with Victor’s response to his creation.

Frankenstein Essay Topic: Men and Women

Compare and contrast the roles of the female and male characters in the story. Also consider the monster’s request for a female companion. What is Shelley saying about the relationships between, responsibilities of and/or nature of men and women? Do you agree or disagree with her?

Frankenstein Essay Topic: Friendship

The theme of friendship is important in the novel. Compare the characters who have the love and support of others with the creature, who is rejected by everyone he encounters. How does the lack of any friends affect the Creature?

Frankenstein Essay Topic: Gothicism

Discuss Frankenstein as a Gothic novel. What settings, passages, ideas, characterizations could be classified as Gothic?

Beowulf Movie Review -- Boston Globe

Beowulf Movie Review -- National Public Radio

Click on the titles to see reviews -- both positive and negative.

CGI Beowulf

What do you think of the Beowulf character and all his men in the movie version? What "un-epic" episodes and elements have you noticed so far? Do these additions make it better or worse in your opinion? Why?

British Literature at Hudson Catholic

Beowulf battled hideous monsters (NOT Angelina Jolie) and enriched his kingdom. What would a hero of Beowulf's stature do in today's society? What would he fight? What would he try to achieve for his people? What characteristics would he have?