Frankenstein and Westworld

Television shows are often influenced by outside sources. I believe that one of the sources that Westworld is influenced by is Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. This is because Westworld and Frankenstein share some common elements.

There are many examples of common elements between Westworld and Frankenstein. One example is that Frankenstein’s monster learns about the world around him by reading books. In episode 3 of Westworld Dolores, who was created just like Frankenstein, also learns by reading books.

Another similarity is the creators’ inability to control their creations. Frankenstein was unable to control his monster. In Westworld, the creators are unable to fully control the hosts. Dolores and Mauve are having memories, some hosts are going off script, and some hosts are having thoughts that they were not programmed to have.

A third similarity is that the creations seek revenge. Frankenstein’s monster mainly sought revenge on Frankenstein who did him a major injustice. In episode 3 of Westworld Walter kills the hosts who have previously killed him. Also, in episode 3 Dolores kills a man who killed her father and boyfriend, as well as tried to rape her.

There are two other noticeable similarities. Both Frankenstein’s monster and the hosts were made in laboratories. Also, in episode 3 we learn that one of the original creators of the hosts was a man named Arnold. Arnold wanted to create consciousness in the hosts which was the goal of Frankenstein with his monster.

It is important to notice outside influences such as these because they help give us a greater insight into what we are watching. This, in turn, helps us to better understand the show. Next time you watch a show see if you can determine what outside sources influenced it.