Novel Format

The format in which Shelley chooses to set up the novel is strange: Frankenstein begins by telling another person in a face-to-face meeting, about his ordeal and life. However, he is able to quote letters written both by and to him word for word. If he is truly speaking directly to Walton, he is unlikely to be able to recount the letters so perfectly and far more likely that he would simply paraphrase the important parts. This is yet another instance of disillusion and a lack of realism within the novel, which raises questions as to Victor's abilities and intents within his tale.