Why was Mary Shelley sent to Scotland? This question often sparks curiosity among readers of her famous novel, “Frankenstein.” The answer to this question lies in a complex interplay of personal relationships, literary ambitions, and the political climate of the time.
Mary Shelley, born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, was the daughter of the renowned feminist philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft and the political writer William Godwin. In 1814, when Mary was 16, she fell in love with Percy Bysshe Shelley, a young poet and philosopher. However, due to the societal norms of the time, the couple faced numerous challenges in their relationship. One of the most significant obstacles was the pregnancy of Mary, which led to her being sent to Scotland.
During this period, Percy Shelley was facing his own set of troubles. He had recently eloped with Harriet Westbrook, and the couple was on the run from the law. In a desperate attempt to secure their freedom and escape the public eye, Percy proposed that Mary join them in Scotland. The idea was to create a new life away from the constraints of English society, and to embark on a journey of literary exploration.
Upon arriving in Scotland, Mary and Percy were met with a cold and unforgiving climate. However, this harsh environment did not deter them from pursuing their dreams. It was during their stay in Scotland that Mary began to write “Frankenstein,” a novel that would later become a classic of Gothic literature. The inspiration for the story came from a ghost story contest that Mary’s stepbrother, William Godwin, had organized. The story of Victor Frankenstein and his creature was born out of a night of brainstorming and imagination.
While in Scotland, Mary also faced the loss of her child, Clara, who died shortly after birth. The emotional turmoil of this loss, combined with the challenges of living in a foreign land, took a toll on her mental health. However, Mary’s resilience and determination to succeed as a writer pushed her through these difficult times.
Ultimately, Mary Shelley’s time in Scotland was a pivotal moment in her life. It was a period of intense personal growth, as well as the birth of one of the most enduring works of literature. The reasons behind her being sent to Scotland were multifaceted, but the outcome was a profound and lasting impact on the world of literature.
