Frankenstein Bicentennial: Home

A dare to write a scary story led to the creation of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, an important work that draws on many themes ranging from scientific progress to revenge. March 2018 marks the 200th anniversary of Frankenstein’s publication and with this brings the opportunity for collaborations within the library and across campus. The bicentennial celebration will explore a work which brings together the intersection of humanities, social sciences, and sciences. We’re organizing a year-long series of events which analyze the original work; discuss related themes and their relevance to current concerns; and explore derivative works. This project is made possible through the Libraries Fund for Innovation, Service, and Entrepreneurship.

We invite you to celebrate the bicentennial of the publication of Mary Shelley's pioneering work, Frankenstein. Join us from 4-6 pm on Tuesday, March 13th 2018 in Norlin Library's Center for British & Irish Studies (fifth floor) for:

• A lively panel discussion of how Frankenstein's  themes resonate today (beginning at 4:30),
• The reveal of the winner of the Frankenstein Creative contest,
• A display of the first illustrated edition of Frankenstein, historical and whimsical monster maps, and related works inspired by Shelley,
• And, of course, snacks and conversation

We look forward to seeing you!

Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein on a dare when she was just 19 years old. The University Libraries now dare you, CU Undergraduates, to craft your own Frankenstein creation.

Submit a creative work as a response to her classic novel Frankenstein—a story, a film, a dance performance, visual art, a computer game—whatever medium works for you to explore some of the themes she touched on. These might include creation, scientific responsibility, gender, unintended consequences of innovations, science and religion, science and community, resurrection. The goal of the contest is for students in every discipline to engage with the themses of the novel!

Important Information:

• Contest is open to all CU Boulder undergraduates
• Filling out a submission form by February 16 is required for entry
  • If your submission is a digital file under 1GB, you may upload it via the form.
  • If it is larger, or a 3 dimensional object, you can set up an appointment to drop off the entry via the form
• A panel of judges will evaluate each submission, and by March 1, winners will be notified
  • One first place winner will be selected, winning $100
  • Three outstanding submissions will be honored, winning a smaller prize

Important Dates:

• February 16: Submissions due
• March 1: Winners contacted
• March 13: Winners announced at Frankenstein Bicentennial Event

We look forward to your creativity!

Look forward to: a film series, panels by local science fiction authors, and more!