Thursday, 1 November 2012

Frankenstein: Volume II - Chapter 4


Chapter 4


The creature recalls his longing to speak to the cottage inhabitants, who seem gentle and simple, but doesn't due to the cruelty he previously experienced. He notices that the family are very poor and the two young people often go hungry so that the old man can eat. With this knowledge, Victor refrains from taking their food although he is very hungry himself. He also begins to cut firewood so that the young man, Felix, doesnt have to. The creautre spends the winter watching the family and begins to love them all and he tries to learn their language. He notices they are unhappy but cannot understand why; they have a roof, fire and human companionship. The creature sees his reflection in water and becomes certain that he will never know true happiness, but still continues to learn the language of the cottagers and strives to win their affection through his gentle heart.

What makes it gothic?

  • Ambiguity - why are the family unhappy?
  • Mystery - will the creature win the hearts of the family? 





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