ABSTRACT:Prometheus in ancient Greek mythology brought about both hope and brightness to human beings. Meanwhile, he also led serious devastation to human society. The Modern Prometheus, as the subtitle of Frankenstein, relates this novel with Prometheus, which is also the emphasis of this paper. Mary Shelley, the author, expresses her understanding of Romanticism through this novel, which deeply impresses readers. Through extensive and deep analysis, we can see that there are some similarities between Prometheus and some characters in the novel—all of them instinctually have strong desire and ambition. This paper mainly analyzes the characteristics and destiny of Prometheus, and then makes combination and comparison with the characteristics and life experiences of some characters in the novel and people around Mary. In this way, this paper aims to make deep and seasonable analysis of the theme of this novel, and to deepen the understanding of Romanticism.

Key words：Frankenstein; Prometheus; Mary Shelley; ambition

CONTENTS

ABSTRACT

中文摘要

Chapter One INTRODUCTION-1

Chapter Two LITERATURE REVIEW-3

2.1 The Research of Frankenstein Abroad-3

2.2 The Research of Frankenstein in China-3

Chapter Three PROMETHEUS IN ANCIENT GREEK MYTHOLOGY-5

Chapter Four PROMETHEUS AND CHARACTERS IN FRANKENSTEIN-8

4.1 Prometheus and Victor Frankenstein-8

4.2 Prometheus and Robert Walton-11

Chapter Five PROMETHEUS IN MARY’ S REAL LIFE-14

Chapter Six CONCLUSION-16

WORKS CITED.17