Frankenstein (1931), the classic Universal monster movie, deviates significantly from Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. This iconic film, adapted from a 1927 play by Peggy Webling, which in turn was based on Shelley’s novel, tells the story of a scientist who creates life and the tragic consequences that follow. However, the film takes creative liberties that reshape the narrative, characters, and themes in profound ways. This blog post delves into the key differences between the book and the film, exploring how the historical and cultural contexts of each influenced their respective creations.
The enduring fascination with Frankenstein stems from its exploration of humanity’s deepest fears and anxieties 1. Shelley’s novel, born from the intellectual ferment of the Romantic era, grapples with the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement and the consequences of playing God. The 1931 film, emerging during the Great Depression, reflects societal anxieties about technology 2, social unrest, and the Other. By understanding the distinct contexts and creative choices behind each work, we can gain a deeper appreciation for their enduring power and cultural significance.
The Creation Scene
One of the most notable departures from the source material is the film’s iconic creation scene. In the novel, Victor Frankenstein brings his creature to life in a more subdued and ambiguous manner, with the specific details shrouded in mystery 3. This ambiguity adds to the novel’s sense of the uncanny and the unsettling nature of Victor’s transgression against the natural order.
The film, however, presents a dramatically different interpretation. Frankenstein’s laboratory, a gothic spectacle of crackling electricity and strange contraptions, has become a template for mad scientist lairs in countless films that followed 4. The scene culminates with Frankenstein lifting his creation towards the heavens amidst a raging storm, harnessing the power of lightning to bring it to life. This visual spectacle, accompanied by Frankenstein’s ecstatic cry, “It’s alive! It’s alive!” 5, has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. Director James Whale masterfully uses sound and visuals to introduce the Monster, employing shadows and close-ups to maximize suspense and shock 5.
Furthermore, the film introduces elements of pseudoscience, blending scientific concepts with fantastical elements to create a unique cinematic experience 4. This cinematic interpretation, with its emphasis on visual spectacle and dramatic flair, has undeniably shaped our understanding of the Frankenstein story and influenced countless subsequent adaptations.
The Monster: Intelligence and Backstory
The film also significantly alters the Monster’s intelligence and backstory. In the novel, the creature is articulate and eloquent, possessing a deep understanding of human emotions and morality. He learns to read and speak by observing a family in hiding and engages in philosophical discussions with Victor, questioning his creator’s responsibility and lamenting his own isolation 3.
However, the film’s Monster, portrayed by Boris Karloff, is depicted as childlike and inarticulate, lacking the ability to speak coherently 6. This portrayal reduces the creature’s complexity and diminishes his capacity for reasoning and moral reflection. While some may argue that this diminishes the Monster’s character, it arguably makes both Frankenstein and the Monster more compelling characters 7. This alteration likely stemmed from the filmmakers’ desire to emphasize the Monster’s monstrousness and to create a more visually driven horror experience for the audience.
The film also omits a significant portion of the Monster’s backstory that is crucial to understanding his motivations in the novel. In Shelley’s work, the creature recounts his experiences after being abandoned by Victor, detailing his struggles to survive and his gradual development of self-awareness and language. He learns about human society by observing a family in hiding and develops a yearning for knowledge and companionship 3. This backstory humanizes the creature and provides a deeper understanding of his actions.
This backstory is absent in the film, leaving the Monster’s actions largely unexplained. This omission simplifies the narrative and reduces the creature’s complexity, focusing instead on his monstrousness and the threat he poses to society. This change aligns with the film’s emphasis on horror and suspense, prioritizing the visual spectacle over the psychological and philosophical dimensions of the story 6.
The Monster’s Appearance
The Monster’s physical appearance is another key difference between the book and the film. Shelley describes the creature as having “watery eyes,” “dun-white sockets,” and “yellow skin scarcely covering the work of muscles and arteries beneath” 3. This grotesque and unsettling image emphasizes the creature’s unnatural origins and the horror it evokes in those who encounter it.
In contrast, the film’s Monster, famously portrayed by Boris Karloff, features a more iconic, albeit still monstrous, appearance. With his flat-topped head, prominent brow, neck bolts, and lumbering gait, Karloff’s Monster became the definitive visual representation of Frankenstein’s creation, shaping the popular imagination for decades to come 6. This shift in appearance can be attributed to the limitations of early cinema and the need for a visually striking figure that would resonate with audiences.
The makeup process for Karloff’s Monster was a laborious undertaking, taking up to four hours each day 8. The heavy makeup restricted Karloff’s facial movements, requiring him to rely on his body language to convey emotion. This physical constraint, however, contributed to the Monster’s unsettling and otherworldly presence on screen.
The Role of Henry Clerval
Henry Clerval, Victor Frankenstein’s close friend, plays a different role in the film compared to the book. In the novel, Clerval is a loyal and compassionate companion who provides emotional support to Victor throughout his ordeal. He represents the values of friendship, empathy, and human connection, contrasting with Victor’s obsessive pursuit of knowledge and isolation 3.
In the film, Clerval’s character is less developed, and his role is somewhat diminished. He primarily serves as a plot device, becoming a victim of the Monster and highlighting the creature’s destructive nature. This change likely reflects the film’s focus on the horror elements and the need to streamline the narrative for a cinematic audience 6.
The Role of Fritz
The film introduces a new character, Fritz, who serves as Henry Frankenstein’s hunchbacked assistant. Fritz, played by Dwight Frye, is a memorable figure who adds a layer of dark humor and macabre fascination to the film 4. He is instrumental in the plot, stealing a criminal brain from Dr. Waldman’s classroom and later tormenting the creature with fire, contributing to the Monster’s fear and rage.
Fritz’s character, while not present in the novel, has become a recognizable archetype in horror films, often associated with mad scientists and their monstrous creations. His presence in the film highlights the ethical complexities of scientific experimentation and the potential for human cruelty in the pursuit of knowledge.
Controversial Scenes
One of the most controversial scenes in the film involves the Monster’s encounter with Maria, a young girl he meets by a lake. In this scene, the Monster, fascinated by Maria’s innocence and playfulness, throws her into the lake, not realizing that she cannot float like the flower petals he had previously tossed into the water 9. This scene, which is not present in the novel, was cut or censored in some regions upon the film’s initial release due to its disturbing nature.
This scene has been interpreted in various ways, with some viewing it as a tragic accident that highlights the Monster’s lack of understanding of human vulnerability, while others see it as a manifestation of his inherent monstrousness. Regardless of interpretation, this scene sparked controversy and contributed to the film’s reputation as a groundbreaking and unsettling horror experience.
Visual Style and Influences
Frankenstein (1931) is notable for its distinctive visual style, drawing heavily from German Expressionism. Director James Whale, who had experience in stage design, employed innovative composition, extreme camera angles, high-contrast lighting, and the strategic use of shadows to create a specific atmosphere 5. This visual style, with its emphasis on distorted perspectives and unsettling imagery, contributes to the film’s overall sense of unease and dread.
The film’s sets, designed by Charles D. Hall, also play a crucial role in creating the film’s mood and atmosphere. The stone walls, cavernous laboratory, and dilapidated windmill all contribute to an unnerving ambience that enhances the horror elements of the story 5.
The Film’s Ending
The ending of the film differs significantly from the novel’s conclusion. In the film, the Monster is pursued by an angry mob and takes refuge in a burning windmill. While it is implied that the Monster perishes in the fire, the ending is left somewhat ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation and potential sequels 10.
In contrast, the novel’s ending is more conclusive and tragic. Victor Frankenstein dies aboard Robert Walton’s ship, expressing remorse for his actions but ultimately failing to take responsibility for his creation. The Monster, filled with grief and despair, vows to end his own life by immolating himself on a funeral pyre. This ending leaves a lingering sense of unease and raises questions about the nature of good and evil, the consequences of unchecked ambition, and the enduring power of human creation 3.
Historical and Cultural Context
The differences between the book and the film can be further understood by considering their respective historical and cultural contexts. Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein during the Romantic era, a period characterized by an emphasis on emotion, individualism, and the power of nature 11. The novel reflects these themes, exploring the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of disrupting the natural order.
The 1931 film, on the other hand, emerged during the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and social unrest. The film’s portrayal of the Monster as a destructive and uncontrollable force can be seen as reflecting societal anxieties about technology, social upheaval, and the Other 9. The film’s ending, with the Monster’s apparent demise, offers a sense of catharsis and reassurance in a time of uncertainty. Audiences struggling with the hardships of the Great Depression connected with the “pathetic, beleaguered Monster” as a reflection of their own struggles 9.
Furthermore, the film draws on Jewish folklore and the legend of the Golem. The Golem, like the Monster, is a creature brought to life by human intervention, often with unintended consequences. This connection adds another layer of cultural significance to the film, highlighting the enduring human fascination with the creation of artificial life and the ethical dilemmas it presents.
The film also subtly portrays the conflict between rich and poor, with Frankenstein representing the privileged class and the Monster symbolizing the marginalized and outcast 4. This social commentary adds depth to the film’s narrative and reflects the anxieties of a society grappling with economic inequality and social divisions.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Frankenstein (1931) was a commercial success upon its release and was generally well-received by both critics and audiences. The film has had a significant impact on popular culture, with the imagery of a maniacal “mad” scientist with a hunchbacked assistant and the film’s depiction of Frankenstein’s monster becoming iconic 9.
The film’s influence extends beyond the horror genre, with its iconic Monster appearing in various forms of media, including television shows like “The Munsters” 9, where Herman Munster is depicted as Frankenstein’s monster. This enduring legacy speaks to the film’s power to capture the imagination and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
The film has also received critical acclaim, being recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest movies of all time and being selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the United States Library of Congress 9. These accolades solidify Frankenstein (1931)’s place as a landmark achievement in cinematic history.
Legacy and Influence
Frankenstein (1931) has left an indelible mark on popular culture, influencing countless films, television shows, and other forms of media. The film’s iconic imagery, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes have resonated with audiences for decades, solidifying its status as a classic of the horror genre.
The film’s influence can be seen in various adaptations and reinterpretations of the Frankenstein story, as well as in the broader cultural landscape. The image of the Monster, with his flat-topped head, neck bolts, and lumbering gait, has become a ubiquitous symbol of horror and scientific hubris.
Key Scenes and Dialogue
While many scenes in the film deviate from the book, one notable example is the Monster’s encounter with the little girl, Maria. This scene, not found in the original novel, highlights the Monster’s naiveté and lack of understanding of the world 10. The tragic consequences of this encounter further emphasize the dangers of unchecked creation and the ethical responsibilities of those who tamper with life.
Conclusion
Frankenstein (1931) diverges from Mary Shelley’s novel in several key aspects, including the Monster’s appearance, intelligence, and backstory, as well as the film’s ending. These differences reflect the creative liberties taken by the filmmakers, the limitations of early cinema, and the distinct historical and cultural contexts of each work. While the film has undoubtedly shaped the popular imagination and solidified the iconic image of Frankenstein’s Monster, the novel’s enduring power lies in its complex exploration of human nature, scientific responsibility, and the consequences of creation.
Despite its deviations, the film captures the essence of Shelley’s story in a way that resonates with a wider audience. Both the film and the book serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the ethical dilemmas of scientific progress. They remind us that the pursuit of knowledge and the desire to create must be tempered with responsibility, empathy, and an understanding of the potential consequences of our actions. By understanding the nuances of both works, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of the Frankenstein story and its continued relevance in contemporary society.
| Feature | Book (1818) | Film (1931) |
|---|---|---|
| Monster’s Appearance | Grotesque, with yellow skin, watery eyes, and exposed muscles and arteries | Iconic, with a flat-topped head, prominent brow, neck bolts, and lumbering gait |
| Monster’s Intelligence | Articulate and eloquent, capable of complex thought and moral reasoning | Childlike and inarticulate, with limited speech and understanding |
| Monster’s Backstory | Detailed account of the Monster’s experiences after being abandoned by Victor | Omits the Monster’s backstory, leaving his motivations largely unexplained |
| Creation Scene | Subtle and ambiguous, with the exact methods left to the reader’s imagination | Dramatic and visually spectacular, with the use of electricity and the iconic line “It’s alive!” |
| Henry Clerval’s Role | Loyal and compassionate friend who provides emotional support to Victor | Less developed character who primarily serves as a plot device |
| Fritz | Not present | Hunchbacked assistant to Henry Frankenstein who steals a brain and torments the Monster |
| Ending | Victor dies expressing remorse; the Monster vows to end his own life | The Monster seemingly perishes in a burning windmill, but the ending is left ambiguous |
Works Cited
1. Playing God Across Eras: The Legacy of Frankenstein in Film – The Beverly Theater, accessed January 25, 2025, https://www.thebeverlytheater.com/news/playing-god-across-eras-the-legacy-of-frankenstein-in-film
2. Frankenstein (1931) – Horror Film History, accessed January 25, 2025, https://horrorfilmhistory.com/wp/frankenstein-1931/
3. Frankenstein Full Text – Chapter I – Owl Eyes, accessed January 25, 2025, https://www.owleyes.org/text/frankenstein/read/chapter-i
4. Faces of Frankenstein: The Innovation and Influence of James Whale’s ‘Frankenstein’ | by Manor Vellum, accessed January 25, 2025, https://manorvellum.medium.com/faces-of-frankenstein-the-innovation-and-influence-of-james-whales-frankenstein-4888cdb0e475
5. FRANKENSTEIN, 1931, Boris Karloff, James Whale, Mae Clarke, horror film, Jays Classic Movie Blog, accessed January 25, 2025, https://www.jaysclassicmovieblog.com/post/70-frankenstein-1931
6. What Are the Differences Between the Frankenstein Films and Mary Shelley’s Novel? – Syfy, accessed January 25, 2025, https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/frankenstein-movie-vs-novel
7. Stitched together wrong: A critical review of “Frankenstein” (1931) | Idols and Realities, accessed January 25, 2025, https://idolsandrealities.wordpress.com/2020/10/11/stitched-together-wrong-a-critical-review-of-frankenstein-1931/
8. Makeup and Special Effects in the 1931 Classic ‘Frankenstein’ – Words from Us, accessed January 25, 2025, https://wordsfrom.us/2023/09/makeup-and-special-effects-in-frankenstein/
9. Frankenstein (1931 film) – Wikipedia, accessed January 25, 2025, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankenstein_(1931_film)
10. Frankenstein (1931) was adapted in part to reflect societal horrors. The peasants, resembling a lynch mob, burn the windmill with the monster inside. The scene’s parting shot has the mill blades slow to take the infamous form of a burning cross. : r/MovieDetails – Reddit, accessed January 25, 2025, https://www.reddit.com/r/MovieDetails/comments/b072ih/frankenstein_1931_was_adapted_in_part_to_reflect/
11. Historical Context (Frankenstein) | Revision World, accessed January 25, 2025, https://revisionworld.com/level-revision/english-literature-gcse-level/frankenstein-mary-shelley/historical-context