Paris appears in Frankenstein multiple times but it is most important primarily in two appearances: the backstory of the De Lacey family in Volume 2 Chapter 6 and during Victor Frankenstein's journey in Volume 3 Chapter 5. As the monster is observing The De Lacey family, he says that they were respected citizens in Paris before their downfall. Victor passes through Paris on his way home after his murder trial and receives a letter from Elizabeth there that discusses concern for his emotional issues. 

 During the 1810s-1830s British perceptions of Paris were odd and reflected a mix of admiration and suspicion. During the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, British people viewed Paris society very critically by questioning their political stability and social order. While some cultural exchange occurred during the French Revolution, British national identity persisted. Paris was seen as a place where ideas of liberty and revolution had both inspired and scared people.  

Understanding these British views of Paris helps us interpret Frankenstein more deeply. The De Laceys' past in Paris highlights themes of injustice and social standing. For Victor, Paris serves as a backdrop for his escalating emotional crisis. Ultimately, Shelley uses Paris to offer a subtle critique of societal structures, justice, and the consequences of politics.  

Sources

Morris, P. “Some Nineteenth Century English Views of French Politics.” Semantic Scholar, 2025, www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Some-Nineteenth-Century-English-Views-of-French-Morris/eed0b85ce2edcd184538b1aee1681ef05d0db6fd. Accessed 30 Sept. 2025. 

Paris photo