One of the most terrifying and sublime novels of the Romantic period, Frankenstein has remained an indelible creation, appearing in everything from B-movies to erotica. This sourcebook examines Mary Shelley's novel within its literary and cultural contexts, exploring the contexts from which Frankenstein emerged, the early reception of the novel, adaptation and performance of the work and recent criticism on it. The text also includes carefully annotated key passages from the novel and concludes with a list of recommended editions and further reading, to allow readers to pursue the areas of study that intrigue them.