Questions and Answers
What are Walton's letters about?
In the beginning of the novel, Captain Walton writes letters to his sister retelling the story Frankenstein told him about the monster's experiences.
How do Walton's letters reflect the novel's themes?
This structure parallels the novel's themes; taking us below the surface of reality, deeper and deeper in guilt.
What is a frame device in the context of the novel?
The tale is told to us by someone who reads it or hears it from someone else.
Who are the three narrators of Frankenstein?
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What significant events occur in Chapter One?
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Which themes are introduced in Chapter Two?
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What key events happen in Chapter Three?
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What does Victor claim to have discovered in Chapter Four?
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What happens in Chapter Five?
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What does Victor learn about William's death in Chapter Seven?
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What is Justine accused of in Chapter Eight?
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What internal struggle does Victor face in Chapter Nine?
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What happens in Chapter Ten?
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Study Notes
Walton's Letters
- Captain Walton begins the novel by writing letters to his sister, recounting Frankenstein's tale about the monster.
- The letters emphasize themes of guilt and the deeper implications of reality.
Narrative Structure
- A frame device is utilized, allowing the story to be relayed through multiple narrators.
- There are three key narrators: Walton, Frankenstein, and the Monster.
Chapter One
- Victor Frankenstein's background includes a marriage between his father and a friend's daughter.
- Victor is born in Italy; five years later, he adopts Elizabeth, with plans for their future marriage.
Chapter Two
- Victor enjoys a privileged childhood alongside his friends Henry Clerval and Elizabeth.
- He becomes fascinated with the supernatural, diverging from conventional knowledge.
- At age 15, a thunderstorm ignites his interest in electricity after witnessing a tree struck by lightning.
Chapter Three
- Tragedy strikes as Elizabeth contracts scarlet fever, leading to the death of her mother.
- Victor relocates to Ingolstadt, where he meets M. Krempe, who disapproves of Victor's prior studies.
- M. Waldman encourages Victor's passion for chemistry, reigniting his academic interests.
Chapter Four
- Over two years at Ingolstadt, Victor becomes isolated from family and friends, consumed by his work.
- He claims to have unraveled the mystery of life, spending months meticulously gathering materials for creating a human.
- This secretive project deepens his anxiety and deteriorates his health.
Chapter Five
- The monster is animated on a rainy November night, causing Victor to flee in horror, symbolizing abandonment.
- A nightmarish dream follows, further highlighting his psychological turmoil.
- Upon recovery, Victor reconnects with Henry Clerval, who expresses concern for Victor’s well-being.
Chapter Six
- Victor reads Elizabeth's letter, which contains hints about a locket belonging to Justine, revealing Elizabeth’s concern for him.
- Circling the Ingolstadt campus, familiar sights trigger Victor's anxiety.
Chapter Seven
- Victor receives distressing news of William's murder, prompting his immediate return home.
- The journey is delayed by a thunderstorm, during which Victor believes he glimpses the monster.
- The family's grief and Justine's innocence are underscored upon his return.
Chapter Eight
- Justine confesses to the crime while maintaining her innocence, resulting in her execution.
- Victor grapples with guilt, recognizing his indirect responsibility for the tragedy involving Justine.
Chapter Nine
- In deep despair, Victor contemplates suicide but is persuaded by his father to vacation at Belrive, finding some solace during the journey.
Chapter Ten
- On another rainy day, Victor encounters the Monster atop a glacier, filled with anger and fear.
- The Monster speaks fluently, luring Victor into a cave to discuss the effects of abandonment on its existence.
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Description
Explore the foundational elements of Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' through its narrative structure and character introductions. From Captain Walton's letters to Victor Frankenstein's early life, this quiz delves into themes of guilt and the pursuit of knowledge. Test your understanding of the key narrators and their roles in this classic tale.
