Uncomfortable reading

On the subject of "Unknown" and the fear often associated with it, I think the constant changes in location unsettle the reader in a way that enhances the darkness of the novel in general. Gothic literature is characteristically eerie and often quite scary and the lack of a firm foundation for any of the characters ensures that the reader doesn't become too comfortable.

Furthermore, this absence of "home" for the characters mirrors the central issue of loneliness that unites them despite their clear differences and conflicts. While the monster most explicitly experiences the pain of not belonging, the ever-changing setting implies that, in fact, none of the characters have a secure place of sanctuary - Frankenstein and Walton are essentially 'homeless' too.

Obviously, the nature of the different settings help this too. The North Pole, the mountains etc. are hardly the most hospitable of environments! The novel never instils the reader with feelings of cosiness, comfort and peace, which I think is important because not only does it generally enhance the Gothic atmosphere of the story, it also helps us to empathise with the characters.