Questions and Answers
Caroline Frankenstein hopes that Elizabeth and Victor marry each other.
True
Henry Clerval's father anxiously awaits his son's opportunity to attend college.
False
M. Krempe takes Victor under his wing and acts as his mentor.
False
Victor studies human anatomy, how life is created, death, and decay.
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Technology as a positive, driving force appears repeatedly in the works of the Romantic writers.
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Victor thinks his creation will be grateful to and appreciative of him.
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While forming his creature, Victor isolates himself from others so they will not learn of his actions.
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After the creature comes to life, Victor watches it through a window.
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Victor is thrilled to see Henry Clerval in Ingolstadt.
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Henry asks Victor to write a letter to his mother and father.
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What is a synonym for 'forecasted or predicted'?
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What does 'state of peace or calm' refer to?
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What does 'strong distaste, aversion, or objection' mean?
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What does 'disapproved or condemned' mean?
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What is a 'brief review or summary' called?
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What does 'respectful or courteous regard' mean?
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What does 'arrogant assertions of one's opinions as truths' refer to?
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What is defined as 'something that interferes or delays action or progress'?
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What does 'beginning to exist or appear' mean?
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What is 'lack of energy or vitality' referred to as?
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How did Justine come to live with the Frankenstein family?
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Describe William Frankenstein.
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What do Victor and Clerval begin studying together?
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How does William die?
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Explain why Victor feels that he has murdered his brother, William.
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What evidence is used to charge Justine with William's murder?
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Why does Victor not share who he believes murdered William?
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How does Elizabeth attempt to defend Justine?
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Why does Justine confess to William's murder?
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What does 'odious' mean?
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What does 'mien' refer to?
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What does 'irreparable' mean?
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What does 'placid' mean?
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What is a 'dirge'?
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What is 'delirium'?
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What does 'depravity' mean?
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What does 'candour' refer to?
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What does 'ignominious' mean?
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What does 'approbation' mean?
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Study Notes
Key Characters and Relationships
- Caroline Frankenstein wishes for Elizabeth and Victor to marry, showing her desire for family unity.
- Henry Clerval's father does not support his son's college aspirations, indicating a lack of understanding of Henry's ambitions.
- M. Waldman becomes a mentor to Victor, influencing his scientific pursuits.
Victor's Studies and Beliefs
- Victor studies human anatomy, exploring concepts of life, death, and decay, which fuels his obsession with creation.
- He believes his creation will be appreciative of him, reflecting his initial arrogance and naiveté.
Isolation and Creation
- Victor isolates himself while working on his creature, indicating a troubling dedication to his experiments separate from society.
- Upon bringing his creature to life, Victor is consumed by disgust and fear, reacting with horror instead of triumph.
Victor and Clerval's Academic Pursuits
- Victor and Clerval study Asian languages together, showcasing their closeness and shared intellectual curiosity.
Tragedy of William Frankenstein
- William, the youngest Frankenstein child, has distinct physical traits and is characterized by his happiness.
- His tragic death by strangulation raises questions about guilt and responsibility, as Victor internally feels he murdered his brother through his creation.
Justine Moritz's Confession
- Justine comes to live with the Frankensteins after being mistreated by her mother, highlighting her vulnerability and dependence on the family.
- The evidence against Justine regarding William's murder is weak; the locket found in her pocket, which belonged to Victor's mother, was a significant factor.
- Elizabeth defends Justine, demonstrating her strong belief in Justine's innocence and moral character.
Themes of Guilt and Martyrdom
- Victor refrains from revealing the monster’s role in William’s death, fearing he would be labeled insane, which underscores his internal struggle with guilt.
- Justine's coerced confession reflects themes of martyrdom, as she believes it will earn her a place in heaven despite its tragic implications.
Vocabulary and Concepts
- Terms such as odious (hateful) and depravity (state of being corrupt) provide insight into the emotions and contexts surrounding characters' actions.
- Delirium (state of violent excitement) captures Victor's mental state following traumatic events.
- Candour (openness in communication) contrasts with the deception surrounding Justine's trial.
Symbolism and Motifs
- The locket found on Justine symbolizes misplaced trust and the profound consequences of misunderstandings within relationships.
- The recurring theme of languor (lack of energy) illustrates the emotional and physical toll of the events on Victor and others.
Final Thoughts
- The combination of Victor's ambition and the tragic consequences of his actions serve as a cautionary tale about the limits of human endeavor and the ethical implications of scientific exploration.
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Test your knowledge of chapters 3-8 of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' with these flashcards. Each card covers key characters and their relationships, highlighting significant events and their implications. Perfect for studying and review!