CONSIDERING WALTON'S LETTERS
Why does Shelley open her novel with Walton?
A01
- Excellent and consistently detailed understanding of texts and question;
- well-structured, coherent and detailed argument consistently developed;
- consistently fluent and accurate writing in appropriate register;
- critical concepts and terminology used accurately and consistently.
A03
- Consistently developed and consistently detailed understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which literary texts are written, as appropriate to the question.
- Consistently developed and consistently detailed understanding of the significance and influence of the contexts in which literary texts are received, as appropriate to the question.
APPLYING THE KNOWLEDGE
Excellent and consistently detailed comparative analysis of relationships between texts.
"It is never quite clear what is or is not a legitimate member of the now huge Gothic family... all belonging – and not quite belonging – together."
What establishes the openings of Frankenstein and at least two short stories from TBC as Gothic?
- See more at: https://www.bl.uk/romantics-and-victorians/articles/gothic-motifs#sthash.QdnpMbFp.dpuf
Judgement consistently informed by exploration of different interpretations of texts
How do Walton's letters help establish the gothic nature of the text?
On your tables, note key elements of the gothic in each letter.
(you can use the VLE to help with your annotations)
What else does Walton bring?
A parallel to Frankenstein.
An introduction to key themes such as the danger of seeking knowledge.
A frame for the narrative!
Multiple narratives are common in the Gothic
Frankenstein is heard by Walton is heard by Margaret is heard by us!
Why use Walton to start the novel?
On your tables consider the FUNCTION that Walton serves.
What evidence did you find in the letters of Walton's role as a gothic protagonist?