The Ultimate Hybrid: A Racial Analysis of the Creature in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

Abstract

Much of the scholarly conversation surrounding Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein focuses on the racial make-up of the creature. First, this article analyzes scientific studies conducted before and during Shelley’s time that impact the ideas of racial science within her novel and directly affect the creature’s racial hybridity. Second, this article reviews the two main racial parallels scholars of Frankenstein have found within the creature’s visage and behavior, while also referring back to the novel to prove or disprove the accuracy of the racial identities he has been given. In conclusion, though the scientific studies and literature review establish the creature as a racial hybrid, his humanity is often overlooked or underestimated—a humanity that can provide insight into current racial tensions in America. Further research should focus on locating similarities between the creature’s racial hybridity and America’s racial hybridity.