Voice and Agency in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein

Abstract

This thesis will explore how the different social positions of characters are reflected through their use of voice and agency. The characters that will be looked at are Elizabeth Lavenza and the Creature, and their social positions will primarily be analysed as being in relation to that of Victor Frankenstein. By analysing the voice and agency of these characters with the help of post-colonial theory and the concept of the male and female sphere, this thesis will conclude that the difference in voice and agency can be attributed to the Western, patriarchal society, which reflect the main character’s European-male-centred world view. Key terms: agency, female sphere, male sphere, the Other, postcolonialism, personae, voice.