Natural Philosophy (Science):
* Alchemy: Victor is deeply interested in the secrets of alchemy, hoping to find a way to unlock the mysteries of life and death. This is evident in his fascination with the works of Paracelsus, a 16th-century alchemist who believed in the transmutation of metals and the creation of artificial life.
* Physiology: He delves into the study of physiology, particularly the workings of the human body, in an attempt to understand the processes of life. He is inspired by the works of John Hunter, a renowned surgeon and anatomist of the 18th century, who pioneered advancements in the understanding of human anatomy.
* Electricity: Victor is drawn to the burgeoning field of electricity and its potential to manipulate life. He conducts experiments with galvanism, inspired by the work of Luigi Galvani, who discovered the principle of bioelectricity in the late 18th century.
Literature:
* John Milton's *Paradise Lost*: Victor is heavily influenced by this epic poem, which explores themes of creation, rebellion, and the consequences of ambition. He draws parallels between his own creation of the monster and the fall of Satan.
* Classical Literature: He also reads widely in classical literature, particularly Greek and Roman authors. This influences his philosophical thinking and his understanding of the power of knowledge and the human condition.
Other Notable Influences:
* The Enlightenment: Victor is a product of the Enlightenment, a period of intellectual and scientific advancement that emphasized reason and progress. His ambition to unlock the secrets of nature stems from this belief in the power of human knowledge.
* Romanticism: While his scientific pursuits are driven by Enlightenment ideals, Victor also exhibits Romantic sensibilities, particularly in his fascination with the sublime and his overwhelming sense of isolation and guilt.
It's important to note that Shelley does not explicitly mention specific authors or works in the novel. However, the themes and ideas explored in *Frankenstein* clearly reflect the intellectual landscape of the 18th and 19th centuries, and the influences of the figures mentioned above are readily apparent.