Setting:
* The laboratory: Victor Frankenstein's laboratory, with its "wretchedness," "solitude," and "gloomy" atmosphere, is a classic Gothic setting. It represents the dark and dangerous nature of scientific ambition and the isolation of the individual pursuing forbidden knowledge.
* The night: The chapter takes place at night, a time often associated with the supernatural in Gothic literature. Darkness allows for the unknown to flourish and reinforces the sense of fear and danger.
* The storm: The "tempestuous night" adds to the sense of unease and foreshadows the tumultuous events to come. Storms are a frequent motif in Gothic literature, often symbolizing the disruption of order and the release of primal forces.
Character:
* Victor Frankenstein: Victor's character is fueled by ambition, obsession, and a reckless disregard for the consequences of his actions. This makes him a classic Gothic protagonist, driven by a desire for knowledge that ultimately leads to his downfall.
* The Creature: The Creature, brought to life through Victor's experiments, is a quintessential Gothic monster. He is both terrifying and pitiable, embodying the themes of alienation, monstrousness, and the consequences of humanity's hubris.
Themes:
* The Supernatural: The creation of the Creature, a living being from inanimate matter, challenges the boundaries of science and morality. It raises questions about the limits of human knowledge and the potential for unintended consequences.
* Isolation and Alienation: Both Victor and the Creature experience profound isolation. Victor isolates himself in his pursuit of scientific knowledge, while the Creature is shunned and ostracized for his appearance. This isolation underscores the themes of loneliness, despair, and the search for belonging.
* The Grotesque and the Sublime: The Creature's appearance, described as "horrible" and "hideous," is grotesque and unsettling. Yet, there are also elements of the sublime in his creation, reflecting the awe and wonder that can accompany the exploration of the unknown.
Style:
* Suspenseful and evocative language: Shelley uses vivid imagery and suspenseful descriptions to create a sense of dread and anticipation. For example, she describes the laboratory as "a chamber of horrors" and the Creature as "a demoniacal creation."
* Gothic imagery: The chapter is filled with Gothic imagery, such as "black" and "death," which reinforce the sense of darkness and despair.
* The theme of the double: Victor's creation of the Creature can be seen as a reflection of his own inner darkness and the potential for evil within him. This theme of the double is a common motif in Gothic literature, representing the darker side of human nature.
Overall, Chapter five of "Frankenstein" is a compelling example of Gothic literature, effectively using its elements to create an atmosphere of horror, suspense, and moral ambiguity. It explores themes of science, nature, morality, and the human condition, making it a timeless and enduring work of literature.