The Luddite movement, which protested against industrialization and the
displacement of skilled labor by machines, can be examined through the lens of
Gothic literature, specifically “The Castle of Otranto” by Horace Walpole and
“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley1.
“The Castle of Otranto” is considered the first Gothic novel and it set the stage for
many themes and tropes that would become common in the genre2. The novel focuses
on Manfred, the lord of the castle, who seeks to avert an ancient prophecy by
marrying his dead son’s betrothed, Isabella, to produce another male heir2. The castle
seemingly becomes haunted, with moving pictures and self-closing doors, while a
giant knight can be heard and occasionally seen in the halls2. This novel can be seen
as a critique of the aristocracy’s attempts to maintain power and control in the face of
changing times and societal structures.
“Frankenstein”, on the other hand, directly addresses the fears and anxieties
associated with the Industrial Revolution and the rapid advancements in science and
technology1. The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a
sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. Frankenstein’s creation can
be seen as a symbol of the unchecked scientific progress that was feared by the
Luddites1.
In both novels, the fear of the unknown, the supernatural, and the unnatural are
prominent themes. These themes reflect the anxieties of the time, including those
expressed by the Luddites. By examining these works, we can gain a deeper
understanding of the societal and cultural impacts of the Industrial Revolution and the
resistance movements it sparked.
Please note that this is a broad interpretation and the specific analysis can vary based
on the aspects of the novels you choose to focus on. It’s always a good idea to support
your arguments with direct quotes from the texts. Good luck with your dissertation!