Frankenstein Visits Utopia

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Introduction

“I HAD DESIRED IT WITH AN ARDOR THAT FAR EXCEEDED MODERATION; BUT NOW THAT I HAD FINISHED, THE BEAUTY OF THE DREAM VANISHED, AND BREATHLESS HORROR AND DISGUST FILLED MY HEART.”

This statement by Mary Shelley, from the story Frankenstein, reflects the passions of men to pursue dreams, despite the often imminent consequences of their actions. In Thomas More’s Utopia, the reader experiences a similar tension for an uncertain place called Utopia. This place is described by a visitor to this land, named Raphael, as having a perfect society. How will Frankenstein fit in Utopia? Lets find out from Sir Thomas More, as both he and I can now see Frankenstein’s boat approaching, in return from a six month stay on the island of Utopia. We have not been in contact with Frankenstein since his departure in June. As far as we know, all is well, considering the saying ‘no news is good news.’

Book One

More:While we have a few minutes, let me fill you in on some details about the island and its inhabitants, as described by Raphael’s five year visit. I would also like to reveal to you Frankenstein’s plight that led him to flee to such a place as Utopia. I am certain that Frankenstein’s perspective of Utopia will not be as representative as Raphael’s, but the feedback will undoubtedly be quite interesting.

Many years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Raphael immediately after his return from Utopia. Over the span of a lunch sitting, Raphael described this island in vivid detail. Some of these descriptions I have long since forgotten due to a fire that engulfed my office, incinerating all my notes from this visit with Raphael. Still, I am quite aware of the wondrous details provided to me by Raphael’s account, including the intricacies of such a well organized and fascinating political system, and the overall quality of life, where nobody owns anything, but everyone is rich. I can never forget Raphael’s statement, “for what greater wealth can there be than cheerfulness, peace of mind, and freedom from anxiety?” We shall soon see if this statement holds water.

On that note, let me begin with the politics of Utopia and then I will brief all the other interesting facets that make this island so unique. I would also like to inform you of my predictions of the effects this island should have on Mr.

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