Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus
by Mary Shelley
Contents
Chapter VII
Overview
Victor learns that his brother William has been murdered and rushes to Geneva. During a storm he sees the Creature and becomes convinced it killed William, yet he resolves to keep silent. Returning home, Victor finds Justine accused after the missing miniature is found on her, while Elizabeth defends her innocence.
Summary
Victor receives a letter from Alphonse revealing that young William has been murdered near Plainpalais, the mark of fingers on his neck and Elizabeth’s treasured miniature missing. Elizabeth, blaming herself for letting William wear the picture, is inconsolable. Shocked, Victor hastens from Ingolstadt toward Geneva, sustained only by Henry Clerval’s sympathy.
As Victor nears home, fear and grief slow him. Arriving after the city gates close, he crosses the lake at night to Plainpalais and watches a violent storm gather. A lightning flash reveals the gigantic, deformed Creature. Victor instantly concludes the being he animated murdered William and realizes pursuit is futile.
At dawn Victor returns to his father’s house, determined yet afraid to speak the unbelievable truth. He remains silent, reasoning that no one would credit his tale and the Creature would elude capture. In the library, Ernest greets him and reports that Justine Moritz has been discovered with the missing miniature and is to be tried that day.
Horrified, Victor asserts Justine’s innocence but offers no explanation. Alphonse hopes for acquittal despite damning circumstances. Elizabeth arrives, steadfastly defending Justine and pleading for Victor’s help. Victor reassures Elizabeth, privately tormented by guilt that his creation likely committed the crime now charged to an innocent friend.
Who Appears
- Victor FrankensteinReceives news of William’s murder, sees the Creature in a storm, suspects it, and remains silent.
- Elizabeth LavenzaGrief-stricken; blames herself over the lost miniature; insists on Justine’s innocence and seeks Victor’s help.
- Alphonse FrankensteinWrites the tragic letter; mourns William; hopes the law will fairly try Justine.
- Ernest FrankensteinWelcomes Victor home and reports Justine’s arrest and the evidence found.
- The CreatureSpotted by Victor during the storm; leads Victor to believe it murdered William.
- Justine MoritzFamily friend and servant; accused when the missing miniature is found in her pocket.
- Henry ClervalComforts Victor upon hearing of William’s death and helps start his journey.
- William FrankensteinVictor’s youngest brother; found strangled at Plainpalais, triggering the chapter’s events.