Frankenstein: Original 1818 Text (Unabridged‪)‬

Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus

Original, unabridged 1818 edition
Thoughtful philosophical introduction
Historical context: Villa Diodati summer of 1816
Biography of Mary Shelley


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When young scientist Victor Frankenstein discovers the secret of creating life, he believes he has achieved greatness. But the moment his creature opens its eyes, Victor flees in horror, abandoning the being he brought into existence. Alone and rejected, the creature learns language, literature, and human nature—only to realize he will never be accepted. What follows is a devastating tale of revenge that stretches from the Swiss Alps to the frozen Arctic, as creator and creation pursue each other to the ends of the earth.

Widely considered one of the founding works of science fiction and a masterpiece of Gothic literature, Frankenstein is a profound exploration of scientific responsibility, human nature, and what we owe to those we bring into existence. This edition presents the original, unabridged 1818 text—the rawest and most philosophically powerful version of Mary Shelley's groundbreaking novel, written when she was just eighteen years old. Enhanced with comprehensive historical context, this edition invites listeners to experience Shelley's vision as it was meant to be heard.