Frankenstein's Exploration of Human Anatomy
The German Museum of Medical History invites you to embark on a fascinating journey through the annals of medical history, with a special focus on the legendary figure of Victor Frankenstein. On Sunday, July 27, at 3 PM, the museum will host a guided tour titled "Victor Frankenstein & Anatomy".
This unique event offers visitors an opportunity to delve into the connections between Mary Shelley's iconic novel and the historical practice of anatomy and medical science. The tour lasts for 60 minutes and promises an immersive educational experience that bridges literature and science.
During the tour, you'll gain insights into the anatomical knowledge and techniques that inspired Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, particularly the dissection and study of human bodies that informed Victor Frankenstein's scientific ambitions. You'll also encounter displays or exhibits related to historical anatomical instruments and specimens, showcasing what medical practitioners of the era would have worked with.
The tour will provide context on the ethical, philosophical, and scientific debates about life, death, and reanimation during the period, reflecting the themes central to Frankenstein's story. The narrative ties the gothic and scientific elements from the novel into the actual history of medicine, creating a captivating experience that brings the myth of Frankenstein to life.
Visitors can expect to see specimens, anatomical models, and possibly multimedia presentations or theatrical storytelling that connect the myth of Frankenstein with the practical reality of medical history, particularly as it relates to the study of human anatomy and the quest to understand—and potentially control—life itself.
The guided tour is offered by the German Museum of Medical History and takes place at the Old Anatomy building, where Victor Frankenstein would have studied. A room dedicated to Victor Frankenstein and his creator, Mary Shelley, can be found on the ground floor of the museum.
The participation fee for the guided tour is 5 Euros in addition to the entrance fee. Prior ticket purchase is recommended due to limited capacity. Tickets can be purchased at the museum box office or online shop.
After the tour, you can unwind at the museum café "hortus medicus", which is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. It offers a stimulating start or a relaxing end to your museum visit.
So, if you're a fan of Mary Shelley’s work or a history buff with an interest in medical history, this guided tour offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with the medical culture that shaped the Frankenstein mythos, deepening your understanding of the origins of the story and the scientific curiosity it dramatizes.
This guided tour at the German Museum of Medical History allows you to explore the education-and-self-development background of Victor Frankenstein, a central figure in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein novel, and delve into his anatomy studies (lifestyle) that inspired the novel. The event also showcases historical education materials related to anatomical instruments and specimens.
