A "mad scientist" is a popular character often depicted in literature, film, and other media. This archetype typically embodies eccentricity and a disregard for ethical boundaries in the pursuit of scientific knowledge. They are often portrayed as brilliant but unstable individuals who conduct experiments that can lead to dangerous or unpredictable outcomes. The mad scientist trope is commonly associated with classic works like Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. These characters often serve as cautionary figures, highlighting the potential consequences of unchecked ambition and the moral dilemmas faced in the field of science.