Events › Frankenstein: Penetrating the Secrets of Nature

The National Library of Medicine produced Frankenstein: Penetrating the Secrets of Nature, guest curated by historian and educator Susan E. Lederer, PhD (University of Wisconsin-Madison). 

The traveling exhibition and companion website explore the power of the novel Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus to expose hidden fears of science and technology as human efforts to penetrate the secrets of nature continue. In 1816, Mary Shelley conceived a story about a scientist who creates a creature that can think and feel, but is monstrous to the eye. Spurned by all, the embittered creature turns into a savage killer. Shelley’s story served as a metaphor for apprehensions about scientific advancement that continue to resonate today.

The National Library of Medicine produced this exhibition and companion website.