ABSTRACT

Frankenstein is recognized as the first science fiction novel in the world, in which Mary Shelly reveals her profound reflection on the irrational development of science and technology. The present thesis attempts to analyze the characterization and plot development in Frankenstein which shed light on Shelley’s insights into science. It argues that the tragedies of Frankenstein and other characters can be attributed to their disrespect towards nature in their mad, sometimes morally dubious pursuit of science. In addition, the ideal relationship between science, nature and ethics is investigated. This thesis argues that the development of science must follow the law of nature, on the premise of objectivity, on the basis of human reason. If human beings always want to conquer nature and change nature, they will pay a painful price.

Keywords：Frankenstein; Mary Shelley; scientific thoughts; Ethics

CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ABSTRACT

摘要

Chapter One INTRODUCTION-1

Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW-3

Chapter Three NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF FANATICAL PURSUIT OF SCIENCE-5

3.1 Bringing about Man’s Destruction-5

3.2 Blurring Moral Boundaries-7

Chapter Four IDEAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCIENCE, NATURE AND ETHICS-9

4.1 Ideal Relationship between Science and Nature-9

4.2 Ideal Relationship between Science and Ethics-….10

Chapter Five CONCLUSION-12

WORKS CITED-14