Chapter 3

Synopsis of Volume 3 Chapter 3

As he works on his new creation, Frankenstein begins to fear that she and the monster will breed and threaten humanity. He destroys what he created, spied upon by the monster, who then confronts him, demanding that Frankenstein resume work. Frankenstein refuses and the monster departs, swearing revenge, and telling him that he will be with him on his wedding-night.

Henry summons Victor to resume their travels. Frankenstein dismantles his laboratory and sinks the remains of the second monster in the sea.

He then falls asleep in his boat and eventually lands in Ireland. He is immediately taken before a magistrate because a man has been found murdered near where he landed.

Commentary on Volume 3 Chapter 3

three years before: one of the references allowing the reader to keep track of the novel's chronology.

tore to pieces: as usual, Mary Shelley does not go into detail about the most gruesome moments of the story, but here the reader must imagine Frankenstein acting with the same kind of ferocity as his creation.

‘Slave …': note how the creature now addresses Frankenstein, his creator; the balance of power has tipped decisively in the creature's favour.

filled me with such agreeable sensations: even after he has carried out the grisly task of drowning the remains of his second attempt to create a being, Victor is capable of being soothed by being alone in nature.

More on issues confronting Victor:

This is a critical point in Victor's story, when he is forced to confront the consequences of his past actions and the dangers inherent in meeting the creature's request.

• Why doesn't he simply refuse to do as the creature asks?
• Why does he delay his marriage to Elizabeth in order to carry out his task?
• To what extent is he motivated by vanity and scientific interest as he sets out to create a female creature?

 

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