Frankenstein by Mary Shelley was published exactly two hundred years ago. Hundreds of reading events, new annotated editions and web sites are celebrating its bicentennial. Although many consider it to be a horror story, Frankenstein is far more addressing such relevant issues as the responsibility of the scientist /creator for the consequences of creation and discovery; problems resulting from technological progress surpassing human moral and emotional development; discrimination against the deformed, ugly or maladaptive; and consequences of parental neglect. We will discuss the novel and its ethical implications, and watch a few brief video clips from filmed adaptations. Please read the first four chapters by the first class. Recommended: One of the recent annotated editions of Frankenstein, preferably of the original 1818 novel.
