Chapter V: The Creation Comes to Life
Chapter V marks the climactic moment of Victor Frankenstein's scientific endeavors – the creation of his monster – and the immediate aftermath of this momentous event.
Key events in this chapter:
- Victor successfully animates his creation
- He is immediately horrified by the monster's appearance
- Victor flees from his apartment, abandoning his creation
- He encounters his friend Henry Clerval, who has come to study at Ingolstadt
- Victor falls ill and is nursed back to health by Henry
Highlight: The moment of the monster's creation is a turning point in the novel, setting in motion the tragic events that follow.
Victor's reaction to his creation is one of immediate revulsion and fear:
Quote: "How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form?"
The stark contrast between Victor's anticipation of creating life and the horror he feels upon succeeding underscores the novel's themes of the dangers of playing god and the unpredictable consequences of scientific advancement.
Victor's subsequent actions:
- He runs from his apartment, unable to face his creation
- He wanders the streets of Ingolstadt in a state of distress
- Upon returning to his lodgings, he is relieved to find the monster gone
The arrival of Henry Clerval provides a moment of respite for Victor:
Example: Henry's presence represents a connection to Victor's past life and normal human relationships, contrasting sharply with the isolation of his recent scientific pursuits.
Victor's illness following the creation of the monster can be interpreted as both a physical and psychological breakdown, highlighting the toll his obsession has taken on his well-being.
This chapter sets the stage for the rest of the novel, as Victor must now confront the consequences of his actions and the existence of his creation.