One of the many aspects that I admire about Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is the way that it continues to hold its own in a deeper way that goes far beyond the 'horror' shelf.  The themes in this novel are truly timeless, such as science versus nature, loneliness, or duty and responsibility.

Frankensteinforces the reader to examine the role of science in the natural world.  Even though Victor's experiment is more literary than scientific, the novel poses the question: Should man take on the role of Creator?  With our modern day genetic cloning and biological weapons, this question is more relevant than ever.  Shelley's novel reveals the dangers of man playing God, while offering wisdom about the necessity of duty and responsibility in science.