O Duplo em Frankenstein ou o Prometeu Moderno

Abstract

Considered of complex definition, the 18th century novel is considered a genre that brought "novelty". The first work of science fiction was created in the 19th century: Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus, written by Mary Shelley. The Gothic novel in question brings discussions of contemporary issues that are still relevant today, such as morality, ethics, and the recognition of responsibility for what we create. One of the characteristics of this novel is the presence of the double. Thus, this research aims to understand to what extent the theme of the double is presented in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein through the language, actions, and behavior of the characters - Victor Frankenstein and the monster. To this end, the specific objectives of this research are (i) to analyze the materiality of the text in Frankenstein; (ii) to explore the main features that denote the presence of the double in the work; and (iii) to map the linguistic evidence of the relationship between the scientist and the creature, making evident the theme of the double in the novel. This research is qualitative of bibliographical nature, from which studies, readings, and reviews of books, articles, and essays were carried out, and relies on the researcher's perspective aiming to expand the area of study and contribute with a new look on the theme based on an analysis of the novel considering the theme of the double. The results showed that the aspect of the double is presented in Mary Shelley’s novel through its epistolary writing structure, the way in which a third party (Captain Robert Walton) perceives the characters Victor Frankenstein and the monster, the fact that the monster is not named, and the type of relationship that the scientist Victor Frankenstein and his creature develop towards each other.