Savoring “Frankenstein”: Exploring the Delicate Flavors of Mary Shelley’s Culinary Inspirations

Before The Creature in “Frankenstein” learns language or cruelty, he discovers hunger—and surprisingly, generosity. In Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation, there’s a striking moment where The Creature, a towering figure, enjoys a loaf of bread left for him. This brief scene reveals a deep truth: even the most forsaken beings crave connection.

Del Toro’s film isn’t just about horror; it highlights how food symbolizes connection. Throughout the story, simple acts of sharing sustenance showcase humanity amid chaos and ambition.

The film mirrors Mary Shelley’s original narrative. The Creature (played by Jacob Elordi) is abandoned by Victor Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac) and initially feared by humans. When he escapes into a desolate wilderness, he’s shot at and chased away. Yet, he is fascinated by the humans he encounters, paying close attention to their lives.

In a nearby hut, he observes a family struggling with poverty. They have a blind father and children, making their meager resources hard-earned. Watching them ignites a longing in him for something undefined—connection. He begins to help them, gathering firewood and repairing fences, believing they see him as a kind spirit. Only the audience knows it’s a rejected creature acting out of kindness.

The Creature reflects, “And on occasion, they too extended a small kindness towards me — clothes, bread.” This moment of eating bread in the sunlight gives him a brief sense of peace. In contrast, Shelley’s novel paints a more primal picture; The Creature’s early meals are raw and desperate—acorns, berries, and water. His first real meal consists of stolen leftovers from a shepherd, which makes him understand human tastes and needs.

As he secretly aids the family, he learns about their struggles. His guilt rises when he realizes his actions worsen their plight. Yet, he vows to assist them without revealing himself—a silent guardian ensuring their survival.

Del Toro powerfully symbolizes this relationship through food. When the blind man in the film offers The Creature bread and brandy, it marks a pivotal moment of trust. The invitation is simple but profound. It’s the first time kindness is shown to The Creature without fear or judgment. This warmth draws him out, showcasing the power of compassion in a world filled with rejection.

What if the story took a different turn? For a moment, it seems The Creature could find solace in companionship with the blind man, enjoying shared meals and stories. But this is “Frankenstein.” As the tale unfolds, cruelty returns, and The Creature’s hope for acceptance shatters.

Interestingly, a recent survey found that over 75% of people believe food has a unique power to bring others together, even amidst diversity and conflict. This sentiment echoes in both the film and novel, where shared meals spark fleeting moments of connection.

In the end, both adaptations emphasize that even in darkness, there are chances for connection. Simple acts, like sharing a loaf of bread or a meal, carry immense meaning. They remind us that even in the bleakest narratives, companionship often starts with something as simple as food.

These poignant moments linger long after the horror fades, showcasing the universal truth: connection is often formed one small, shared bite at a time. For further insights into the psychological connections between food and human relationships, visit Psychology Today.

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