Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a masterpiece of Gothic literature, filled with iconic lines that resonate even today. Pinpointing specific quotes, however, can be challenging due to variations in edition formatting. This guide aims to provide a helpful, though not exhaustive, reference for some of the most frequently cited quotes from the novel, along with strategies for locating them in your own edition.
Note: Page numbers are highly variable depending on the edition you possess. This guide offers strategies to help you locate the quotes efficiently rather than providing fixed page numbers. Always consult your edition's table of contents and index.
Finding Specific Quotes in Frankenstein: A Strategic Approach
Before diving into examples, let's establish the most efficient way to find quotes in Frankenstein:
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Utilize the Index: Every edition should include a comprehensive index listing key characters, themes, and sometimes even significant quotes. Begin your search here; it's the quickest route.
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Keyword Search: If your edition has a searchable text function (e.g., in an ebook), use keywords from the quote. Searching for key phrases or even just a distinctive word will often narrow down the results.
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Chapter-by-Chapter Search: If you have a hard copy without a searchable index, review the chapter summaries in the table of contents to determine the most likely location of the quote based on the context you remember.
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Online Resources: Many websites offer searchable text versions of Frankenstein. However, always double-check the edition used, as variations exist.
Commonly Searched Frankenstein Quotes and How to Find Them:
While precise page numbers are impossible to provide universally, these examples illustrate the search strategies:
"I have made a man!"
This, arguably the most famous quote, is associated with Victor Frankenstein's creation. To find it in your edition:
- Index: Search for "Frankenstein," "creation," or "monster" in the index. The quote's context will likely be near entries relating to the monster's birth.
- Keyword: Search for "man," "made," and "creature" in your searchable text or in an online version. The close proximity of these keywords will lead you to the exact passage.
"Did I request thee, Maker, from my clay / To mould me Man, did I solicit thee / From darkness to promote me?"
This powerful quote speaks to the creature's resentment towards his creator. Locate it by:
- Index: Look for entries related to the creature's speeches, or themes of creation and rebellion.
- Keyword Search: "Maker," "clay," "mould," "darkness," and "promote" will effectively narrow your search.
“How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form?”
This quote highlights Victor's emotional turmoil and the magnitude of his creation. Use these search strategies:
- Index: Look up "catastrophe," "emotions," "wretch," or Victor Frankenstein himself.
- Keyword Search: Use combinations of the key words to narrow your search within the text.
Quotes about Nature and Isolation
Many search for quotes relating to the themes of nature and isolation. While specific quotes aren't as easily pinpointed as the previous examples, focusing on specific chapters dealing with the creature's solitary existence, or Victor's journeys in the Alps, will prove fruitful.
Conclusion:
Pinpointing exact page numbers for quotes in Frankenstein requires utilizing your edition's tools and adopting an effective search strategy. This guide provides an approach to help you locate those memorable lines and delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Mary Shelley's masterful work. Remember to always specify your edition when citing quotes to avoid any ambiguity.
