Lago Di…Lightful: A Deep Dive into Mary Shelley’s Chilling Landscape
Literary landscapes can be as vital to a story as the characters themselves. They set the mood, reflect inner turmoil, and even drive the plot forward. This week’s crossword clue had me thinking deeply about one such setting, a place that’s synonymous with both beauty and a chilling sense of isolation: the backdrop of Mary Shelley’s
Frankenstein
.
Shelley masterfully uses the Swiss Alps, specifically the region around Lake Geneva, to amplify the themes of ambition, isolation, and the sublime power of nature that course through her iconic novel. It’s more than just a pretty picture; it’s an active participant in the unfolding drama.
Let’s unpack why this particular location is so significant.
The Romantic Ideal and Its Dark Side:
The late 18th and early 19th centuries were a period dominated by Romanticism, a movement that celebrated the power and beauty of the natural world. Think towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and untamed wilderness. Switzerland, with its dramatic landscapes, became a quintessential Romantic destination, attracting artists and writers seeking inspiration. Shelley herself famously visited the area with her husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Lord Byron, a trip that sparked the very genesis of
Frankenstein
.
However, Shelley takes the Romantic ideal and twists it. While Victor Frankenstein initially finds solace and inspiration in the majestic beauty of the Alps, that solace is fleeting. The overwhelming power of nature, initially a source of comfort, eventually becomes a symbol of his own insignificance and the destructive force he has unleashed upon the world.
Isolation and Inner Turmoil:
The vastness of the Alps serves to highlight Victor’s profound isolation. He is surrounded by nature, yet deeply alone, wrestling with the consequences of his actions. The remote valleys and towering peaks mirror his own internal landscape: a place of hidden darkness, guilt, and a desperate yearning for connection that he can never truly achieve.
Think of the scenes where Victor seeks refuge in the mountains. He aims to escape his troubles, but the stark, unforgiving terrain ultimately confronts him with the magnitude of his creation and the moral implications of his actions. The beauty doesn’t erase the horror; it magnifies it.
The Sublime and the Terrifying:
The concept of the “sublime,” a feeling of awe mingled with terror experienced in the face of nature’s overwhelming power, is central to
Frankenstein
. The Swiss Alps embody the sublime perfectly. Their sheer scale, unpredictable weather, and potential for danger evoke a sense of both wonder and fear.
This feeling is reflected in the creature’s experiences as well. Initially, he is overwhelmed and terrified by the natural world. But as he observes and learns, he begins to appreciate its beauty, albeit with a deep awareness of his own monstrous form and exclusion from it. The sublime becomes a constant reminder of his alienation.
Beyond the Scenery:
The Swiss setting in
Frankenstein
isn’t simply decorative. It actively shapes the narrative and enhances its themes. It’s a powerful reminder of the complex relationship between humanity and nature, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the enduring power of guilt and isolation. Understanding this connection elevates the novel from a mere gothic horror story to a profound exploration of the human condition. So, next time you encounter a clue referencing this iconic locale, remember the profound impact it has on this masterpiece of gothic literature. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ALPS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Making an Impression By Jeffrey Martinovic