As would be usual of an adapted novel, the lexis of the comic is essentially similar to that of the original text for the sake of authenticity, however some changes have been made to promote ease of reading. Very little of the original text’s language has been significantly altered, the more unnecessary or waffly sentences of the text have just been removed. This, I thought, was definitely the right way to approach a rewrite of this kind which requires condensing; as none of the literary charm or unique quirks of Shelley’s writing have been lost.
Had I had no prior knowledge of the time in which she was writing and you handed me this novel alongside the original, I would assume that it was either her own adaptation or one she had worked closely alongside, her writing style is still wonderfully prominent throughout.
The chosen passages included or altered are relevant and encompassing, well balancing the short, to the point nature of comics while not missing out any significant plot/discourse.
Lexically, I found the specific word choices to be very fitting to the style, modernised enough to be easy to read, understand and interpret, but still archaic enough to reflect the writing period. This is very appealing to young people who might have trouble with understanding the old English of the original novel.
The drawings well illustrate the climate of the period, with more vibrant colours being used for traditionally upper class settings and gloomier colours associated with the lower class environments presented. Appropriate building of the period and social attitudes of the time is an integral theme of this novel, represented of course by the lack of acceptance towards Frankenstein’s monster. This atmosphere is well conveyed through these techniques, which is important to illustrate this environment for young people who may have less knowledge of the period.
In terms of pragmatics, hidden meanings and unspoken discourse were well presented, too, with the facial expressions and presented temperament of the characters in their drawings giving hints at their intentions and true emotions. These were my favourite features, and I found this graphic novel to be very entertaining and has huge potential to appeal to young people. Between the presentation and the art style it’s extremely well executed.
I find scarce things to criticise, but to be pedantic, an argument could be made that a condensed format may sacrifice some depth within the themes, and in order to be visually engaging to the readers much of the focus is on actions; which may take focus away from some of the emotive and feeling based aspects central to the novel.