Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus
by Mary Shelley
Contents
Chapter XVIII
Overview
Victor postpones creating the female and, pressed by Alphonse, confirms his love for Elizabeth but defers marriage until after fulfilling his promise to the Creature. He secures a journey to England for needed knowledge, with Henry as companion. They travel down the Rhine and reach London in December, with Victor dreading the Creature’s pursuit.
Summary
Back in Geneva, Victor cannot bring himself to begin the female companion, torn between fear of the Creature’s vengeance and revulsion at the task. He concludes he must study recent English discoveries and contemplates a trip, even as brief joys return amid bouts of isolating melancholy.
Alphonse privately urges clarity about Elizabeth, proposing immediate marriage. Victor assures Alphonse of his deep love but inwardly recoils from marrying before completing his promise, fearing fresh calamities if he delays the Creature’s demand. He decides he must leave home to work in secrecy and seek needed knowledge in England.
Victor requests the journey without revealing his true motive. Alphonse and Elizabeth arrange that Henry Clerval join him at Strasbourg, a comfort Victor accepts despite craving solitude, hoping Henry’s presence may ward off the Creature’s intrusions. The family plans Victor’s marriage to follow his return.
Haunted by anxiety for his family’s safety, Victor consoles himself that the Creature vowed to follow him and thus may spare Geneva. He departs in late September, packing his instruments, while Elizabeth gives a tearful farewell.
Victor meets Henry at Strasbourg, and they drift down the Rhine toward Rotterdam. Henry revels in the scenery, momentarily soothing Victor’s gloom. They continue through Holland and embark by sea.
In the latter days of December, Victor and Henry reach England. London’s landmarks rise before them, marking the start of Victor’s grim preparations to pursue the knowledge required for the abhorrent work.
Who Appears
- Victor FrankensteinProtagonist; delays creating the female, affirms love for Elizabeth, plans research trip to England, travels with Henry, fears Creature’s pursuit.
- Henry ClervalVictor’s devoted friend; joins at Strasbourg, delights in Rhine scenery, accompanies Victor to London.
- Alphonse FrankensteinVictor’s father; broaches Victor’s marriage to Elizabeth, seeking to lift his son’s gloom.
- Elizabeth LavenzaVictor’s beloved; silently distressed yet supportive, helps arrange Henry’s companionship; marriage deferred until Victor’s return.
- The CreatureAbsent but looming; his demand and threat drive Victor’s decision to leave for England.