Frankenstein vs. Never Let Me Go

Attribute	Frankenstein	Never Let Me Go
Author	Mary Shelley	Kazuo Ishiguro
Genre	Gothic fiction	Dystopian fiction
Themes	Creation, ambition, revenge	Cloning, identity, ethics
Setting	18th century Europe	Alternate reality England
Protagonist	Victor Frankenstein	Kathy H.

Themes

Both Frankenstein and Never Let Me Go explore themes of identity, humanity, and the consequences of playing god. In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein's creation of the monster leads to a questioning of what it means to be human and the responsibilities that come with creating life. In Never Let Me Go, the clones grapple with their own identities and the ethical implications of their existence as organ donors. Both novels delve into the moral dilemmas surrounding the manipulation of life and the impact it has on individuals and society as a whole.

Character Development

In Frankenstein, the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the monster undergo significant development throughout the novel. Victor starts off as a curious and ambitious scientist but descends into madness and despair as he realizes the consequences of his actions. The monster, initially portrayed as a tragic figure seeking acceptance, becomes vengeful and destructive due to the rejection he faces from society. In Never Let Me Go, the characters of Kathy, Tommy, and Ruth also experience growth and change as they come to terms with their predetermined fates as organ donors. Their relationships and interactions shape their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Setting

The settings of Frankenstein and Never Let Me Go play a crucial role in shaping the tone and atmosphere of the novels. Frankenstein is set in various locations across Europe, including Switzerland, Germany, and the Arctic, reflecting the vast scope of Victor Frankenstein's ambitions and the consequences of his actions. The desolate landscapes and isolated settings mirror the characters' internal struggles and the themes of loneliness and alienation. In contrast, Never Let Me Go takes place in a dystopian version of England where the clones are raised in secluded boarding schools before being sent off for organ donations. The institutional settings highlight the characters' lack of agency and the oppressive nature of their existence.

Narrative Structure

Frankenstein is told through a series of letters and narratives, with multiple perspectives offering insights into the characters' motivations and experiences. The shifting viewpoints add depth to the story and allow readers to see the events from different angles. Never Let Me Go, on the other hand, is narrated by Kathy, providing a more intimate and personal account of the characters' lives. The first-person perspective allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotions and relationships, drawing readers into their world and experiences.

Social Commentary

Both Frankenstein and Never Let Me Go offer social commentary on the ethical implications of scientific advancements and the treatment of marginalized groups. Frankenstein critiques the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of playing god, highlighting the hubris of Victor Frankenstein and the societal rejection of the monster. Never Let Me Go, on the other hand, examines the dehumanization of the clones and the exploitation of their bodies for the benefit of others. The novels raise important questions about the value of life, the limits of science, and the responsibilities we have towards each other as human beings.