Section 3: Overview

Nature vs. Nurture in Frankenstein

In this section, we will explore theories of human development as they relate to nature versus nurture, while considering how the novel informs our understanding of the debate. To conclude the section, we will engage in a Socratic Seminar on the novel’s depiction of the role of nature and nurture in the formation of the individual.

• Lesson 1:

  We will gain insight into prevailing philosophical theories from Mary Shelley’s contemporaries to deepen our understanding of the creature’s character development.

• Lesson 2:

  We will continue our examination of how Frankenstein informs the debate between nature and nurture.

• Lesson 3:

  We will delve deeply into the historical context of the books the creature reads and their impact on his character development.

• Lesson 4:

  We will participate in a practice Socratic Seminar about the power of language in Frankenstein, which will prepare us for the Section Diagnostic.

• Lesson 5:

  We have examined the debate between nature and nurture through multiple texts. To demonstrate our understanding of the novel, we will engage in a Socratic Seminar about how nature versus nurture impacts the meaning of the novel using specific details from the text.

• Lesson 6:

  We will review the teacher’s feedback on our Section Diagnostic and will use the feedback to make revisions to our work.

• Lesson 7:

  We will share the understanding we have gained through our independent reading and continue to read our texts.