Frankenstein

6b Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley. Illustrations by Lynd Ward. New York: Harrison Smith and Robert Haas, 1934. Rare with slipcase. 

Notes

Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, first published in 1818, is the landmark novel by Mary Shelley, telling the story of Victor Frankenstein and the tragic consequences of his attempt to create life. Combining Gothic atmosphere with philosophical depth, the novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, isolation, and the boundaries of scientific inquiry. Its enduring influence has secured its place as one of the foundational works of both modern fiction and speculative literature.

Mary Shelley (1797–1851), daughter of the philosopher William Godwin and the pioneering feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, wrote Frankenstein at the age of eighteen, drawing on contemporary scientific ideas and her own imaginative insight. The novel’s lasting legacy lies in its ability to continually resonate across generations, inviting reflection on the moral implications of creation and the human desire to transcend natural limits.

The illustrated edition featuring the work of Lynd Ward is particularly notable for its striking visual interpretation of Shelley’s text. Ward, known for his mastery of wood engraving, brings a dramatic intensity to the narrative through bold contrasts and expressive composition, emphasizing the emotional and psychological depth of the story. His work is often associated with the influence of Rockwell Kent, whose earlier illustrated editions of literary classics helped shape a modern graphic style characterized by strong lines and stark imagery. While Ward developed his own distinctive voice, the connection to Kent reflects a broader tradition of early twentieth-century American book illustration that sought to elevate classic texts through powerful visual design.

Description 

Tan cloth binding with illustration in black and gray to upper board. Lettering on spine in black. Original slip case with illustration to both sides. Some sun fading to slipcase and slight browning to spine of book but overall very good condition.