Chapter 17

The creature demands a female companion as his right, but Frankenstein, filled with rage, flatly refuses to create another such being.

The creature argues that his malice stems from his misery and isolation, threatening to destroy Frankenstein if he is denied companionship.

Calming himself, the creature makes a reasoned plea for a companion as hideous as himself, promising their lives will be harmless.

Seeing Frankenstein is moved, the creature promises that he and his companion will retreat to the wilds of South America forever.

Frankenstein voices his doubt that the creature will remain in exile, prompting the creature to swear a solemn oath to depart.

Frankenstein struggles with revulsion and compassion, questioning the creature's sincerity, who argues that a companion will cure his vices.

After weighing the arguments, Frankenstein agrees to create a companion, and the creature swears an oath to leave humanity forever.

The creature departs swiftly, and Frankenstein, his heart heavy, descends the mountain alone in the dark, weeping in agony.

After a miserable night, Frankenstein returns to Geneva, his haggard appearance alarming his family as he resolves to begin his task.