Frankenstein inspired by suicide of Mary Shelley's half-sister, book reveals

A new collection of Mary Shelley's diary entries reveals that her novel "Frankenstein" was deeply influenced by the tragic suicide of her half-sister, Fanny Imlay. The entries, set to be published in March, provide personal insights into Shelley's life during the summer of 1816, when she conceived the story while vacationing in the Alps with notable figures like Lord Byron and Percy Bysshe Shelley. Fiona Sampson, a poet and Shelley scholar, argues that the dark themes in "Frankenstein" are intertwined with the emotional turmoil stemming from Fanny's death, which occurred under mysterious circumstances. Sampson's research suggests that Fanny's suicide may have been linked to her feelings for Percy, who was romantically involved with Mary. The collection aims to highlight Mary Shelley's struggles and responsibilities as a sister, partner, and mother, often overshadowed by her literary legacy and familial connections. The themes of "Frankenstein" are now being re-evaluated, with a focus on motherhood and the societal limitations placed on women, reflecting the concerns of both Mary Shelley and her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft. This new perspective is further emphasized by upcoming adaptations of "Frankenstein," including a Netflix film directed by Guillermo del Toro.

- Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" was inspired by the suicide of her half-sister, Fanny Imlay.

- A new collection of Shelley's diary entries will be published in March, providing personal insights into her life.

- The themes of "Frankenstein" are being re-evaluated to focus on motherhood and women's societal limitations.

- Fiona Sampson suggests Fanny's death may have been linked to her feelings for Percy Bysshe Shelley.

- Upcoming adaptations of "Frankenstein" are expected to explore these themes further.