In an 1833 story by her, an alchemist’s assistant drinks a potion giving eternal life but ends up seeing all he loves die
The Final Jeopardy clue for March 12, 2025, fell under the category “Authors’ Other Works” and read:
“In an 1833 story by her, an alchemist’s assistant drinks a potion giving eternal life but ends up seeing all he loves die.”
Who is Mary Shelley?
The story referenced in the clue is “The Mortal Immortal,” a lesser-known short story written by Shelley and first published in 1833. Best known for Frankenstein, Shelley explored themes of life, death, and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition in many of her works.
“The Mortal Immortal” follows the story of Winzy, a young man who serves as an apprentice to the alchemist Cornelius Agrippa. Unwittingly, Winzy consumes a potion that he believes will cure him of his troubles, only to later realize that he has gained eternal life. As decades pass, he watches loved ones grow old and die while he remains unchanged, a tragic existence he never sought.
The story delves into themes of immortality, isolation, and the unintended consequences of scientific experimentation. This aligns with the broader concerns Shelley addressed in Frankenstein, where she questioned the ethical boundaries of science and the unforeseen ramifications of manipulating life.
Mary Shelley’s Literary Legacy
Mary Shelley’s legacy extends beyond Frankenstein, though that novel remains her most famous work. She was a prolific writer who contributed to the Gothic and Romantic literary movements, often exploring themes of existential despair, the limits of human ambition, and the ethical dilemmas of scientific discovery.
In addition to “The Mortal Immortal,” she wrote other works of fiction and travel literature, including The Last Man (1826), a dystopian novel about the last surviving human in a post-apocalyptic world. Her writings often carried a deep philosophical and emotional weight, reflecting her personal tragedies, including the loss of her husband, the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, and several of their children.
The Influence of Science and Philosophy
Shelley’s fascination with scientific progress and its moral implications was influenced by the intellectual circles she engaged with. Her father, William Godwin, was a political philosopher, while her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was an early advocate for women’s rights. Her husband, Percy Shelley, was deeply interested in science and alchemy, further shaping her perspective on human knowledge and its dangers.
“The Mortal Immortal” captures this intersection of science, philosophy, and human experience, presenting a cautionary tale about the cost of defying nature. The story suggests that eternal life is not a gift but a curse, leaving its protagonist in a perpetual state of loss and regret.
A Testament to Shelley’s Enduring Influence
Though Frankenstein remains Mary Shelley’s defining work, “The Mortal Immortal” serves as a compelling example of her ability to weave Gothic horror with profound moral questions. It continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike, reinforcing her place as one of the most significant literary figures of the 19th century.
The Final Jeopardy question for March 12, 2025, highlighted her broader contributions to literature, reminding audiences that Mary Shelley’s impact extends far beyond her most famous creation.