Chapter 21

A fisherman testifies about finding a strangled man's body on the beach, which was not wet or cold.

Frankenstein reacts with agitation to the mention of strangulation, and multiple witnesses testify to seeing his boat near the crime scene.

Witnesses speculate on Frankenstein's movements, and the magistrate orders him to view the body to gauge his reaction.

Frankenstein discovers the murder victim is Henry Clerval, collapses in convulsions, and suffers a two-month fever, raving about his guilt.

After two months of fever, Frankenstein awakens in a prison cell and is greeted by an unsympathetic nurse.

The nurse bluntly calls Frankenstein a murderer, and he reflects on his miserable state and the lack of care he receives.

Frankenstein learns of Mr. Kirwin's kindness, and during a visit, he tells the magistrate that no comfort is possible for him.

Mr. Kirwin shows surprising knowledge of Frankenstein's situation, explaining he read letters found on his person and has written to Geneva.

Mr. Kirwin announces a visitor, whom Frankenstein mistakes for the monster before learning it is his father.

Frankenstein's father arrives, comforting him but also causing distress by mentioning Clerval, yet his presence helps Victor recover his health.

Despite recovering, Frankenstein is lost in melancholy, but he is eventually freed when a grand jury rejects the murder charge.

Freed from prison, Frankenstein remains trapped in a suicidal despair, haunted by visions and unable to feel happiness.

Frankenstein resolves to protect his family and kill the monster, and he and his father depart from Ireland by sea.

To escape his misery, Frankenstein takes laudanum but is tormented by nightmares until his father wakes him to a moment of calm.