Frankenstein's First Frame Narrative

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein makes use of the frame narrative literary device several times, the first of which is through Walton being told Frankenstein’s life story. This is similar to The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, which Walton actually references in one of the letters to his sister: “I am going to unexplored regions, to ‘the land of mist and snow,’ but I shall kill no albatross, therefore do not be alarmed for my safety.” This ends up foreshadowing a significant aspect of the novel, for just like Ancient Mariner to the partygoer, Frankenstein will tell Walton a tale that will change his perspective on life.

Roger Walton is an aspiring explorer hoping to find a northern passage across the world. He is extremely dedicated to completing this goal, so much so that he says he’s willing to put his life on the line for the sake of it. In his letters to his sister, though, he states that he is extremely lonely on the sea, as his dreams are ideas are too sophisticated for his fellow shipmates. When they find Frankenstein, however, Walton finally finds someone who he can confide in. After several weeks pass, Frankenstein decides to tell Walton his story, as he believes it will aid Walton greatly. “You seek for knowledge and wisdom, as I once did; and I ardently hope that the gratification of your wishes may not be a serpent to sting you, as mine has been. I do not know that the relation of my misfortunes will be useful to you, yet, if you are inclined, listen to my tale. I believe that the strange incidents connected with t will afford a view of nature, which may enlarge your faculties and understanding.” And with that, the main narrative of the novel, Frankenstein’s story, begins.