In this blog, we will explore Mary Shelley’s legacy through a queer lens—examining her life, friendships, and the underlying queer themes in her work that continue to resonate with LGBTQAI+ audiences today.

The Queer World of Mary Shelley’s Life

Mary Shelley, born in 1797, was no stranger to unconventional and radical ideas. Her parents, Mary Wollstonecraft (a pioneering feminist) and William Godwin (a political philosopher), instilled in her a sense of intellectual freedom that challenged societal norms. These progressive foundations influenced not only her politics but also her approach to personal relationships.

Her relationship with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, whom she married, was unconventional for the time. Percy had radical views on free love and polyamory, and their marriage was often marked by non-monogamous tendencies. This openness to alternative relationship structures mirrors contemporary discussions about queerness and fluidity in love.

Additionally, Mary Shelley’s social circle included a number of queer figures, such as Lord Byron, who was openly bisexual, and possibly others who expressed fluid desires and identities. Living in such an environment exposed Shelley to ideas that pushed against rigid gender roles and heteronormativity. This atmosphere may have informed the complex gender dynamics in her work, especially Frankenstein.

Frankenstein: A Queer Text?

Frankenstein, written when Shelley was just 18, has often been interpreted as a story laden with queer subtext. At its core, Frankenstein explores themes of creation, isolation, and otherness—issues that resonate deeply with LGBTQAI+ experiences.

Gender and Creation

In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein usurps the role traditionally associated with women: that of giving birth. Victor’s desire to create life without a woman—bypassing traditional procreation—can be seen as a transgression of natural gender roles. His obsession with creating a new life without sexual reproduction may reflect an anxiety about gender norms and the natural order of things, ideas that resonate with contemporary queer theory.

The Creature as a Queer Other

The Creature in *Frankenstein* can also be read as a metaphor for queer identity. Cast out by society, misunderstood, and forced to live on the margins, the Creature’s experience mirrors the historical treatment of LGBTQAI+ individuals. Just as the Creature longs for companionship and acceptance, so too have queer individuals throughout history faced isolation and persecution due to their otherness.

Furthermore, the Creature’s inability to find a mate—paralleling the societal rejection of non-heteronormative relationships—underscores his role as an outcast. His existence challenges the boundaries of what is considered “normal” or “natural,” themes deeply connected to the queer experience.

Queerness in the Gothic Tradition

Mary Shelley’s work exists within the Gothic tradition, which has long been a space for exploring repressed desires, unconventional identities, and the darker sides of human experience. Many Gothic texts can be interpreted as queer, with their focus on transgression, boundary-crossing, and the exploration of taboo subjects. In *Frankenstein*, as well as in later Gothic novels, there is often a fascination with characters who live on the fringes of society, much like queer individuals have historically existed on the margins.

This exploration of repressed or hidden identities is part of what makes *Frankenstein* such a powerful queer text. The novel’s treatment of isolation, difference, and the fear of the “Other” can be read as a reflection of the societal pressures faced by LGBTQAI+ people.

Legacy: Mary Shelley and the LGBTQAI+ Community Today

Though Mary Shelley herself might not have explicitly identified with any contemporary LGBTQAI+ labels, her life and work continue to resonate deeply with the queer community. *Frankenstein* remains a text that invites readings about identity, otherness, and the fluid nature of gender and desire. It challenges the boundaries between “normal” and “abnormal,” “natural” and “unnatural,” in ways that parallel queer theory’s critiques of binary thinking about sex, gender, and sexuality.

Moreover, the open and non-traditional relationships she maintained, the radical social circles she moved in, and her fascination with themes of creation and identity make Mary Shelley an enduring figure for queer readers. Her work offers a rich field for exploring the complexities of identity, marginalization, and the human longing for connection, all of which resonate with LGBTQAI+ individuals today.

Queering Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley, though writing in the early 19th century, offers a unique voice in discussions of queer literature. Her life and works engage with issues of identity, difference, and non-conformity in ways that align with contemporary LGBTQAI+ concerns. In *Frankenstein* especially, she provides a narrative that speaks to the isolation, alienation, and societal rejection often experienced by queer individuals.

In exploring Mary Shelley’s life and work through a queer lens, we discover a writer whose themes of creation, otherness, and the boundaries of identity remain strikingly relevant in our modern conversations about LGBTQAI+ issues. Whether through the lens of queer theory or simply as a literary ally, Mary Shelley’s contribution to the ongoing dialogue about identity and difference is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of queer readers and writers alike.

**This blog aims to highlight the connections between Shelley’s life, her literary contributions, and how her themes resonate with LGBTQAI+ experiences, offering a nuanced understanding of her lasting influence.

The post Mary Shelley and LGBTQAI+: Exploring Queer Themes in the Life and Works of the Pioneer of Science Fiction appeared first on Storyteller.

Mary Shelley’s **Frankenstein**, published in 1818, is a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its haunting themes of creation, ambition, and the complex nature of humanity. One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is the character of **Frankenstein’s Creature**. Often referred to as “the monster” or simply “the Creature,” he is a tragic figure misunderstood and mistreated by society. Shelley’s Creature is not just a physical being brought to life by science, but a symbolic representation of deeper questions about what it means to be human.

The Birth of the Creature: A Sin of Ambition

The Creature is created by **Victor Frankenstein**, a scientist obsessed with transcending human limitations. Victor’s ambition leads him to experiment with life and death, ultimately bringing the Creature to life using a patchwork of human body parts. However, the moment his creation opens its eyes, Victor is horrified. His dream of conquering death is replaced by the realization that he has birthed a grotesque and unnatural being.

The Creature, abandoned by his creator, is left to navigate a world where he is shunned due to his terrifying appearance. This rejection sets the stage for his development as a character and the tragedy that unfolds.

The Creature’s Humanity: Nature vs. Nurture

While Frankenstein’s Creature is often portrayed in popular culture as a mindless monster, Shelley’s original portrayal is far more nuanced. The Creature starts life with a childlike innocence, yearning for love and companionship. He is not inherently evil but becomes a reflection of the cruelty he faces from others. The loneliness and constant rejection he experiences from humans who judge him by his appearance drive him into despair and rage.

His intellectual capabilities are also surprising. Throughout the novel, the Creature learns language and philosophy by observing humans. He reads works like **Milton’s *Paradise Lost***, which introduces him to concepts of morality, sin, and justice. His eloquence and introspective thoughts challenge the reader’s assumptions about his monstrosity. Despite his grotesque appearance, the Creature is deeply human in his desire for understanding and connection.

Society’s Role in Shaping the Creature’s Fate

One of the central questions raised by Shelley’s novel is whether the Creature is truly monstrous or if society, in its harsh judgment, has made him so. The theme of **“nature versus nurture”** is prevalent throughout. Had the Creature been met with kindness and acceptance, could he have developed into a compassionate being rather than the vengeful figure he ultimately becomes?

The rejection he faces from everyone he encounters, including his creator, forces the Creature into isolation. He is denied the fundamental elements of human experience: love, companionship, and belonging. His plea for a mate, a companion as hideous as he, is rejected by Frankenstein out of fear that they will procreate and further disrupt society. This final act of denial seals the Creature’s fate, pushing him toward violence and revenge.

The Creature’s Descent: A Product of Neglect

Shelley’s portrayal of the Creature’s descent into violence is a tragic one. His actions, including the murder of Victor’s loved ones, are driven by deep-seated feelings of betrayal and abandonment. These acts of revenge are a desperate cry for attention, a way to force his creator to acknowledge his suffering.

At the heart of the Creature’s tragic story is the responsibility of the creator. **Victor Frankenstein’s refusal to care for or guide his creation** ultimately leads to both their downfalls. The Creature’s story serves as a critique of unchecked ambition and the moral responsibilities that come with creation. Victor’s inability to accept responsibility for his actions reflects a deeper commentary on the consequences of playing God.

The Creature as a Reflection of the Outsider

The Creature’s story has resonated with readers for centuries because of its exploration of the **outsider experience**. His alienation, rooted in his appearance and difference from others, mirrors the experiences of those marginalized by society for being “other.” Whether due to race, class, disability, or other forms of difference, the Creature’s struggle to find acceptance and identity speaks to the universal human experience of longing for connection.

In a world where outward appearances often dictate treatment, the Creature’s fate reminds us of the dangers of superficial judgment. Shelley invites us to empathize with the Creature, challenging us to look beyond the surface and recognize the humanity in even the most unlikely figures.

A Timeless Warning

Frankenstein’s Creature remains one of the most iconic characters in literary history because he embodies both the potential and peril of human nature. His story is a powerful warning about the consequences of ambition, the responsibilities of creators, and the profound impact of society on shaping individuals.

Mary Shelley’s novel continues to resonate because it reflects the timeless tension between **creator and creation, isolation and connection, and what it means to be truly human**. The tragedy of Frankenstein’s Creature is not that he is born a monster, but that he is made into one by a world unwilling to see past his physical form and offer the love and acceptance he desperately craves.

By examining the Creature’s journey, we are reminded of the importance of empathy, the weight of responsibility, and the dangers of rejecting those who are different from ourselves.

The post The Tragic Figure of Frankenstein’s Creature: A Reflection on Humanity appeared first on Storyteller.

Most people know her as the author of Frankenstein. That is just a small part of her story. Mary Shelley was a woman unlike others of her time. She thumbed her nose at convention. She couldn’t be categorized by the ton. By anyone. She was truly unique in ways we’d still find amazing if she did them right now in this century.

How do I know? Because I’ve been studying Mary Shelley for years now. I’ve always known I’d write about her. Not just about her creation- Frankenstein’s monster, but about Mary Shelley the person. The woman who I feel is a real heroine in so many ways. Was she perfect? Absolutely not. She ran away with a married man. She didn’t care what people thought of her love and eventual husband Percy Shelley who was a vegetarian and atheist.  Her family turned their back on her for a time. Friends betrayed her. Percy, who I have tried so hard to like but just can’t, saw other women while they were together.  The only good thing I can say about Percy is that he didn’t underestimate her uniqueness or talent.

Mary kept Percy’s heart after he died. Mary helped a trans couple escape to France to avoid persecution. Mary wrote books beyond Frankenstein. It is believed by some that she was bi-sexual. It is believed by some that there was some inappropriateness to her relationship with her father. How much of that is true? How much of it speculation?

I have read so many books about Mary. Some written by scholars. Some are accumulated correspondence from her contemporaries. A lot is educated conjecture.  The one thing I can say for sure after reading all these books is that Mary Shelley was ahead of her time and completely amazing!

The post Researching Mary Shelley appeared first on Storyteller.

One definition of Gothic is-  of or relating to a style of fiction characterized by the use of desolate or remote settings and macabre, mysterious, or violent incidents – Gothic novels

That’s the definition we like best!

We’ve chosen five of our favorite historical Gothic novels and given you links so you can read them, legitimately of course, for free!

1. Frankenstein– A mad scientist tries to play God by reanimating a man made up of pieces of the dead. The creature comes to life and the battle of who lives and who is the actual monster begins. Originally written in 1818 by author Mary Shelley, this novel is considered the first science fiction to be written.

2. Dracula – A clever and sophisticated vampire terrifies England as he attempts to set up his life there at any cost. A dark castle and ominous landscapes. Written by Bram Stoker.

3. The Castle of Otranto – Considered by many to be the first-ever Gothic novel. Written in 1764 by Horace Walpole. In a faraway medieval realm, Manfred, an arrogant and evil prince, rules with an iron fist. Banishing his wife to the castle dungeon, he confines — and plans to wed — the lovely Isabella, fiancée of his recently deceased son. The prince’s plans are foiled, however, when a well-meaning peasant helps the young woman escape through the castle’s underground passages. Grisly, supernatural events further aid in fulfilling a prophecy that spells doom for the prince and justice for Isabella’s rescuer and rightful heir to the throne.

4. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson – Another scientist looks to improve upon God’s work as he uses chemistry to alter himself in ways he never imagined. And in ways that bring terror to London.

5. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte – Gothic romance, an old mansion with secrets and a little paranormal this is a classic! Jane is abandoned but makes the best of her education she is given and becomes a governess. The master of the house has many secrets and it is dangerous to love him. When she does, there is a big price to pay.

The post TOP 5 GOTHIC HISTORICAL TO READ FOR FREE appeared first on Storyteller.

I’ve always known the story of how Mary Shelley’s League of Supernatural Hunters came to be.  I’ve written a short story about it and thought that would be the end of it. But my agent had other plans. He wanted readers to fully understand where the League came from, how it started and what the rules were. So, my plan has changed and I’m writing a trilogy to explain all the details, of which there are many, about the League and how it works today.

The challenge in writing anything historical is that you have to immerse yourself in that time period. Mine begins in 1816 which is the Regency and Georgian eras. I had to be careful not to mention items, procedures, events or people that were not of that era. For example, I have a scene where Mary Shelley is being hypnotized by Dr. John William Polidori, but the word “hypnotize” wasn’t used then. So, instead, I talk of Franz Mesmer and get the idea of what Polidori is doing by that reference.

Another example is the scene where Mary is looking at photographs. But, this is 1816 and photographs weren’t readily available until 1822. I had to change the scene and show them as small drawings instead.

I admit that I didn’t follow the dialog of the day exactly. If you have read The Vampyre or Frankenstein you can see why. It’s almost as though you need to learn the language of the time to understand it easily. I wanted my readers to have a seamless time of understanding the story on the written page.  So, please do forgive me for that. I know readers who love historicals like it to be accurate.  Do know that I spent hours and hours researching for the book. I have so many books about Mary Shelley’s life I feel like I actually know her. Side note: I love her!

The books are Gothics and the first one- Mary Shelley’s League of Supernatural Hunters – follows the story of how Frankenstein was written as well as following the story of Frankenstein as written by Mary Shelley. It’s a blend. The real life of Mary Shelley blended with the story of Frankenstein into a new work of fiction where the two are as one.

I’ve read the initial version of Frankenstein (1818) and then the later version with Mary Shelley’s introduction and explanation of how she was inspired to write the novel.

I hope people enjoy it regardless of what they know of Mary Shelley or the novel Frankenstein. I tried to make it as original as possible with my own take on why Mary did the things she did and how she actually met Frankenstein, the creature who she named Adam.

The post Writing Historical Gothic – Research and Challenges appeared first on Storyteller.

Writing the comic book for Mary Shelley’s League of Supernatural Hunters I always knew Adam Frankenstein, the creature, would get his origin story. Not just the story of how the creature was created, which loosely follows the novel written by Shelley, but where the body parts came from.

In the novel, we know the creature is disfigured. He’s made from different parts of dead bodies and then animated to life.  In my comic book I tell the story of how those body parts came into the possession of Dr. Frankenstein and how those people lived before they became parts to create the whole of Adam.

I hint at his story in the comic book cover. And you get the feel of the comic on how Mary and Adam are together. Mary is a strong figure, a fighter. And you can clearly see she’s not fearful of the brutish Adam who stands behind her.

I hope people will enjoy the extra details of the creature’s life and how it came to be!

The post Mary Shelley Comic- The Creation of Adam appeared first on Storyteller.

Most people know who Mary Shelley is or at least they’ve heard of her book – Frankenstein. But, fewer people know who she actually was. She was an amazing woman who had so many hardships in her life.  She was a real-life heroine who did so many things most women would never have even imagined back in the early 1800s.

Researching Mary Shelley I’ve found so many interesting things about her life. She was a pregnant teenage runaway who fell in love with married man. She lost three children in her lifetime, all of whom were with that same married man – Percy Shelley.

Mary retained Percy’s calcified heart in brown wrap paper until the day she died.

Mary helped a couple, a transgender married couple, escape persecution.

She was romantically interested in Washington Irving (Sleep Hollow author),

She overcame tragedy and adversity holding strong to her convictions. All of that is true.

Making her a monster hunter wasn’t actually much of a stretch.

The post Mary Shelley Research appeared first on Storyteller.

I’m about to start writing my third comic book titled Demon Gate. It’s related to my current release called Fear Fest. I’m excited to have comic books available and am working to create a cohesive world for my character Adam Frankenstein.

I taught myself how to write a comic book. I took a weekend workshop, read a bunch of how-to books, and read comics that I thought were great stories. I think Dan Wickline is amazing. Anything by Jonathan Maybery, too.

What took the longest was finding the right illustrator. When I finally found Evan Scale.

Evan has such talent and creativity! He made my ideas even better. I am so lucky to have found him.

Once I had an illustrator I had to deal with the boring stuff like contracts, trademarks, and attornies.

Then there was the formatting, which is a pain to get done and the distribution.

It was wildly fun too and exciting to be at writer events signing and to sell out of all my comic books!

I like the idea of having comic books, short stories and eventually releasing a novel. Wish me luck!

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