What is the best translation of Frankenstein?

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For most readers, the Oxford (1818 text) translation (2008) of Frankenstein is the best place to start: If you're reading Frankenstein once, read the 1818 text — the original, before Mary Shelley revised it under pressure from conservative critics. It's leaner, angrier, and gives Victor more responsibility for what he does (the 1831 rewrite leans on fate). Oxford pairs that original text with Marilyn Butler's landmark introduction. Inexpensive, complete, well-edited. This is where I'd start. For best for students, consider Norton Critical (1818 text) (2021). For the 1831 version, consider Penguin (1831 text) (2003). For most beautiful, consider Penguin Clothbound (1831) (2013). For free, consider Free 1818 text (1818).

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