Mary Shelley (2017)
Mary Shelley (2017) – Movie Summary
Mary Shelley (2017) is a historical drama that explores the life of Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, the English writer best known for her groundbreaking novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. Directed by Haifaa al-Mansour, the film delves into Mary’s tumultuous relationship with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and the experiences that shaped her as a writer.
The story begins with a teenage Mary (played by Elle Fanning), living in London with her father, William Godwin, a respected philosopher and political thinker. Mary struggles under the weight of her mother’s legacy—Mary Wollstonecraft, a famous feminist writer—while also yearning for independence and recognition. Her love for literature and storytelling sets her apart from her peers.
Her life takes a dramatic turn when she meets the charming and rebellious poet Percy Bysshe Shelley (Douglas Booth). Despite his existing marriage, Percy and Mary fall in love and elope, along with Mary’s stepsister, Claire Clairmont (Bel Powley). Their journey is marked by passionate romance, financial struggles, and the burden of societal judgment. The couple lives an unconventional life, often facing criticism for their radical views on love and marriage.
Things take a darker turn when Claire becomes involved with the infamous Lord Byron (Tom Sturridge). The group spends the summer of 1816 at Byron’s villa in Geneva, where they engage in discussions about life, death, and science. One stormy night, Byron proposes a ghost story competition, inspiring Mary to write what would later become Frankenstein. Deeply affected by personal loss, including the death of her infant child, and influenced by contemporary scientific advancements, Mary crafts a tale that explores themes of creation, abandonment, and the consequences of playing God.
However, even after completing her masterpiece, Mary struggles to gain recognition as a writer. Publishers refuse to accept that a young woman could have written such a profound work. It is only when the novel is published anonymously that it begins to receive attention. Eventually, Mary fights to claim her rightful place as the book’s true author, defying societal norms and proving her literary genius.
The film portrays Mary Shelley as a passionate, intelligent, and resilient woman who defied expectations to create one of the most enduring works of literature. Through stunning cinematography and a compelling performance by Elle Fanning, Mary Shelley highlights the struggles and triumphs of a young woman who dared to challenge the world around her.
