Frankenstein
Frankenstein
by Mary Shelley

Three-Act Plot Analysis

For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.

Act I

Victor creates a monster and abandons it in the world.

Act II

The monster becomes unhappy because no one understands him; he seeks to punish his creator for his abandonment. They both end up alone – except for the relationship they have with one another.

Act III

Victor chases after the monster to kill him. Victor dies, and the monster, realizing he’s lost his only companion, goes off to die.

Next Page: Brain Snacks
Previous Page: Booker’s Seven Basic Plots Analysis: Tragedy