Frankenstein on Trial Can man be held responsible

Frankenstein on Trial Can man be held responsible for both the intended and inadvertent effects of what he creates?

Who is responsible? There are four murders in the Frankenstein play: William; Clerval; Elizabeth and the Monster's Bride. Although the Monster commits the murders, is it he or is it his creator, Frankenstein, who is truly guilty? Frankenstein is to go on trial.

Prosecution and Defence In a courtroom, a trial has two side: 1 Prosecution - this group will accuse Frankenstein of being guilty 2 Defence - this group will claim Frankenstein is innocent You will now prepare your case as either a Prosecution or a Defence team

In groups of 2/3 you will prepare your case, each considering 2 of the following questions: Is it right that scientists should try to create life? Was it right for Frankenstein to create a companion for the Monster? Did Frankenstein have the right to destroy the Bride? If Frankenstein could have controlled his Monster, could he have prevented the murders? Was Frankenstein right to use corpses in his work? Why did the university stop helping Frankenstein with his research?

Skim read the play script to find supporting lines to use in making your case A few examples to consider initially: 'You're not what I thought you'd be. . . I thought I was making an angel!' 'It was wrong of me to start; but it would be worse not to finish. . . ' 'Monster! I didn't create you to do evil - why have you betrayed me? '

Could you play the role of Frankenstein? One member of the Defence group will need to play Frankenstein at the trial and answer all questions in role. You must know the play very well. You will need to be able to think on your feet and be able to make believable inferences on questions relating to information beyond the text. You must be able to remain in role.

Spokespersons One member from the Prosecution team and one member from the Defence team will need to put forward the group's views and questions.

Judge A nominated Judge must pay close attention to both teams arguments, taking notes and sum up both arguments for and against Frankenstein at the end of the trial.

Jury members Once the trial is ready to commence, the majority of the class will act as jury members, listening carefully to the cases put forward and decide whether Frankenstein is innocent or guilty.