hello,
I have to write a research paper on a paticular author. I chose Mary Shelly since we just finsihed reading Frankenstein. I need to narrow down my topic to make it more specific. I don't know how to start. I want to somehow relate her life with Frankenstein. By what her inspiration was when she wrote the story. Will there be many points to write a 6-8 research paper.
Another topic I had was the science during that time?
Also another one is, What was the people's opinion when Mary Shelly wrote a work of science fiction? did they accepted it?
plz help me narrow down my topic, and have enough resources to do my research.
thanks everyone
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Shelley
If you use this webpage as a guideline, you can probably decide which part of her life you want to focus on.
Also, be sure to check out the external links, bibliography, and other reference sections at the bottom of this webpage.
Let us know what you decide on if you want someone to comment.
=)
As I was reading about her life. There is alot about her and her husband's life. How her husband encouraged her to write.
So what if I do...How her Husband's encouragement imapacted her life and writing....
is a general topic, should i make it more specific.
or how her husband impacted her literary work
How her husband affected/influenced her in her literary work -- that's good.
I'd avoid the word "impact" unless you mean he actually hit her!
http://www.answers.com/impact
And I don't think you mean that, right?
=)
Hello! It's great that you have chosen Mary Shelley and her novel Frankenstein as the topic for your research paper. Narrowing down your topic can definitely help make it more specific and manageable. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Mary Shelley's Life and the Influence on Frankenstein: You could explore how Mary Shelley's personal experiences and background influenced the themes and ideas presented in Frankenstein. For example, you could focus on her relationships with other writers and intellectuals of the time, her upbringing, or her experiences as a woman in the early 19th century.
2. The Scientific and Philosophical Influences on Mary Shelley: This topic would explore the scientific and philosophical ideas prevalent during Mary Shelley's time and how they influenced her writing. You could discuss the impact of the Industrial Revolution, advancements in medicine, or the philosophical ideas of the Enlightenment era on the creation of Frankenstein.
3. Reactions to Frankenstein as a Work of Science Fiction: This topic would focus on the initial reception and perception of Frankenstein as a science fiction novel. You could examine how the readers and critics of that time responded to Shelley's innovative use of science, the supernatural, and moral implications. Look into whether the novel was accepted as a serious literary work or dismissed as mere entertainment.
To ensure you have enough resources for your research, here are a few steps you can take:
- Start by conducting a general search on Mary Shelley's life, the historical context of the novel, and the critical analysis of Frankenstein.
- Utilize academic databases like JSTOR, Google Scholar, and ProQuest to access scholarly articles, essays, and book chapters that go deeper into Mary Shelley's life, her influences, and the critical reception of her work.
- Check your school or local library for books specifically dedicated to Mary Shelley, Frankenstein, and the historical period in which she wrote.
- Don't forget to explore primary sources such as letters, diaries, and other works written by Mary Shelley herself. These can provide valuable insights into her thoughts and intentions.
Remember to organize your research, take detailed notes, and create an outline before you start writing your paper. Good luck with your research, and I hope this helps you narrow down your topic! If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.