Conceived during the summer of 1816, Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" is lauded as one of the earliest examples of science-fiction literature. Telling the story of the talented but misguided Dr. Victor Frankenstein and the hideous monster he creates, Shelley's novel is recognized as one of the most engaging horror stories ever written. The creation humor12-myth within the book has served as inspiration for modern films, graphic novels, songs and even horror-themed episodes of numerous television shows.

Although many mistakenly believe the monster's name to be Frankenstein, he is actually never referred to by any name in the book. Dr. Frankenstein does call him other hateful names such as "devil" and "fiend," according to Chris Baldick, who wrote "In Frankenstein's Shadow: Myth, Monstrosity, and Nineteenth-Century Writing."

The monster is instead called Frankenstein's monster. Additionally, Frankenstein was a medical student in the novel, not a doctor as frequently portrayed. While many assume that the monster dies after running off into the frozen arctic wasteland after his creator dies, it is never specified whether the monster survives in the harsh wilderness, as noted by Mental Floss.

Throughout the book, the monster is portrayed as both sensitive and intelligent. He lacks only the companionship of another being just like him. And his only acts of rage and cruelty come as a result of his loneliness. So there you have it, the monster was both compassionate and knowledgeable -- not some heartless creature.

The monster was actually eight feet tall in the book. Thus, there have been living human beings who could look him in the eye. Nonetheless, he would still stand among the world's tallest humans, so that definitely warrants recognition.