To what extent do you agree with the view that the novel is a total condemnation of transgression? (Frankenstein by Mary Shelly)

You might read this question and instantly want to make a start on your exam piece. DON’T! Make sure to read the question fully, twice. It’s important to make sure you understand what’s being asked of you, especially in a carefully worded question such as this. You can lose marks if you misunderstand the question. After reading the question, break it down into key phrases. In this question, the phrases are ‘to what extent’, ‘do you agree with the view’, and ‘total condemnation of transgression’. This question is asking how much you agree with the opinion that Frankenstein disapproves or criticises ‘transgression’. You do not need to fully agree, you can state that you agree to a ‘certain existent’, or ‘to a small extent’ with the view. Remember, however you choose to argue in this essay, you need relevant examples from the text. Relevant examples show the marker that you understand and have engaged with the text. Moreover, a balanced essay – one which points out evidence both for and against the view – will display that you have considered the entirety of the novel and given the argument a lot of thought.

When writing your argument, you should state what boundaries are being transgressed and how these are represented in the text. For example, Frankenstein’s monster represents the transgression of the boundaries between life and death because he is made of body parts from corpses. Then show how the transgression is depicted in the text. How is it represented in the text? How does the text show this? What techniques are used? Make sure to link all your points back to the main question. This demonstrates to the marker that you are considering and answering the question carefully. Finally, your conclusion needs to summarise your argument. Reiterate how much you agree with the state and the points you have made. Do not add points to the conclusion that you did not write about in the main body of your essay. This can look rushed and does not add to your essay. Keep in mind: break down the question into key words, have examples and evidence for your argument, and refer to the question.