Blade Runner Frankenstein

Changing values and perspectives are illustrated within Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, as the contextually divorced nature of the two provides an insight into the paradigm shift between the two worlds. This creates a thematic continuum by which the responder can evaluate this shift. Primarily serving as cautionary tales, both are indictments of the pervading influence of science within the respective worlds, showing the composer’s grave concern about the scientific influence. The contrast in textual form reinforces the similar themes of man playing god, human identity and scientific progression, and these are all developed as a result of the composers’ respective context. Thus, through examination of the thematic continuum and the changing nature of society, its values and perspectives are illustrated.

Written in 1816, Mary Shelley’s epistolary text ‘Frankenstein’ examines the way in which tampering with the natural processes of reproduction potentially threatens humanity, thereby challenging scientific development and the industrial revolution. The epistolary form is significant, as it is highly personalized, and presents Shelley’s values of family connection. As a reaction to the scientific development Shelley criticizes the pervading influence of science within her world, “in this enlightened and scientific age.” Likewise, the changing influence of the enlightenment era, where human nature was overtaken by scientific advancement is condemned, as presumptions by society are based superficially on physical appearances. Exemplified by the Romantic-enlightenment overlap, Frankenstein’s world saw an increasing focus on changing society and contrast in the natural world-aesthetic pleasure-and scientific development. Highlighted by the monster’s ‘beautiful parts’ creating a grotesque whole, this created a cultural ideological clash, showing a dynamic society. Thus, contextual influences within the text illustrate a changing society, and...