Every October, as the spooky season reaches its peak, there’s one day that stands out for literature lovers, science enthusiasts, and Halloween fans alike: Frankenstein Friday. Celebrated this year on October 31, 2025, this quirky and thought-provoking day is dedicated to Mary Shelley’s timeless masterpiece, “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus,” and its enduring impact on the world.
Why Do We Celebrate Frankenstein Friday?
Frankenstein Friday honors Mary Shelley, the brilliant author who, at just 18 years old, penned one of the most iconic and genre-defining novels of all time. This day is not just about the monster itself but about the groundbreaking themes Shelley explored—science, ethics, humanity, and the consequences of playing god. It’s a day to reflect on the novel’s influence on modern science fiction, horror, and pop culture.
First introduced by Ron MacCloskey in 1997, Frankenstein Friday was created to celebrate both the novel and its various adaptations. It’s an opportunity to dive into the story that sparked countless debates, films, and creative works, reminding us of the power of literature to provoke thought and inspire generations.
The History and Significance
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” was first published in 1818, and since then, it has never gone out of print. The story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist whose ambition leads him to create life, and the tragic consequences of his actions, remains as relevant today as it was over two centuries ago. The novel’s themes of unchecked scientific exploration and the moral dilemmas of creation resonate deeply in our modern world, where technology and ethics often collide.
Frankenstein Friday also serves as a reminder of Shelley’s pioneering role as a female author in a male-dominated literary world. Her work paved the way for other women to explore bold, imaginative ideas in their writing.
How to Celebrate Frankenstein Friday
- Read (or Re-read) the Book: There’s no better way to honor the day than by diving into Mary Shelley’s original text. If you’ve never read it before, now is the perfect time!
- Host a Frankenstein Movie Marathon: From Boris Karloff’s iconic portrayal to modern reimaginings, there’s no shortage of Frankenstein-inspired films to enjoy.
- Get Creative: Try your hand at writing your own spooky story, or create Frankenstein-inspired art.
- Discuss Ethics: Host a discussion about the ethical questions posed by the novel. What responsibilities do creators have to their creations?
- Dress Up: Halloween may share the calendar with Frankenstein Friday this year, so why not dress as the monster or Dr. Frankenstein?
Fun Facts About Frankenstein
- Mary Shelley came up with the idea for “Frankenstein” during a ghost story competition with her husband, Percy Shelley, and Lord Byron.
- The novel is considered one of the first works of science fiction, blending speculative science with Gothic horror.
- The creature in the book is never actually called “Frankenstein”—that’s the name of the scientist. The creature is often referred to as “the monster” or “the wretch.”
- The phrase “Frankenstein complex” is used to describe the fear of artificial intelligence or creations that rebel against their creators.
Join the Celebration!
Frankenstein Friday is a unique chance to celebrate the genius of Mary Shelley and the profound questions her work raises. Whether you’re hosting a themed party, diving into the novel, or simply sharing your favorite Frankenstein-inspired memes online, there’s no wrong way to join in the fun.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite edition of “Frankenstein,” fire up a classic movie, or discuss the ethics of scientific discovery with friends. Let’s make this Frankenstein Friday one to remember!
