The Mortal Immortal by Mary Shelley
The Mortal Immortal is a short story by Mary Shelley, first published in 1833. It tells the story of Winzy, a man who has been granted immortality by a mysterious alchemist. Winzy is initially delighted with his newfound gift, but soon discovers that immortality is not all it is cracked up to be. He is unable to age, and is forced to watch as his loved ones grow old and die around him. He is also unable to find true love, as no woman can accept his immortality. In the end, Winzy discovers that his immortality is a curse, and he must find a way to break the spell and die.
By Mary Shelley · First published 1851 · Genre: Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction, Fantasy · 5,344 words
First lines
July 16, 1833.--This is a memorable anniversary for me; on it I complete my three hundred and twenty-third year!
The Wandering Jew?--certainly not. More than eighteen centuries have passed over his head. In comparison with him, I am a very young Immortal.
What this Textopian page supports
The Mortal Immortal is listed on Textopian as a novel by Mary Shelley, dated 1851 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Mary Shelley
- Date: 1851 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romantic Fiction, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Gothic Fiction
- Length: 5,344 words
- Structure: 1 section, 161 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Mortal Immortal by Mary Shelley
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Romantic Fiction — The Mortal Immortal is a romantic fiction novel written by Mary Shelley, which follows the story of a man who is granted immortality and the consequences of his decision.
- Science Fiction — The Mortal Immortal contains elements of science fiction, as it explores the concept of immortality and the implications of such a power.
- Fantasy — The Mortal Immortal contains elements of fantasy, as it explores the concept of immortality and the implications of such a power.
- Gothic Fiction — The Mortal Immortal contains elements of gothic fiction, as it explores themes of mortality, death, and the supernatural.
Tags
fantasy · gothic · horror · immortality · romance · science fiction · philosophy · tragedy · human condition · existentialism · 19th century · Mary Shelley