Chapter 21
14 argumentative units
- 01The Fisherman's Deposition
A fisherman testifies about finding a strangled man's body on the beach, which was not wet or cold.
- 02Witnesses Implicate Frankenstein's Boat
Frankenstein reacts with agitation to the mention of strangulation, and multiple witnesses testify to seeing his boat near the crime scene.
- 03The Magistrate's Test
Witnesses speculate on Frankenstein's movements, and the magistrate orders him to view the body to gauge his reaction.
- 04The Corpse of Henry Clerval
Frankenstein discovers the murder victim is Henry Clerval, collapses in convulsions, and suffers a two-month fever, raving about his guilt.
- 05Awakening in a Prison Cell
After two months of fever, Frankenstein awakens in a prison cell and is greeted by an unsympathetic nurse.
- 06The Unfeeling Nurse and Despair
The nurse bluntly calls Frankenstein a murderer, and he reflects on his miserable state and the lack of care he receives.
- 07Mr. Kirwin's Compassionate Visit
Frankenstein learns of Mr. Kirwin's kindness, and during a visit, he tells the magistrate that no comfort is possible for him.
- 08Mr. Kirwin Explains His Knowledge
Mr. Kirwin shows surprising knowledge of Frankenstein's situation, explaining he read letters found on his person and has written to Geneva.
- 09A Visitor Is Announced
Mr. Kirwin announces a visitor, whom Frankenstein mistakes for the monster before learning it is his father.
- 10Reunion with His Father
Frankenstein's father arrives, comforting him but also causing distress by mentioning Clerval, yet his presence helps Victor recover his health.
- 11Melancholy and Liberation from Prison
Despite recovering, Frankenstein is lost in melancholy, but he is eventually freed when a grand jury rejects the murder charge.
- 12A Torpor of Anguish and Despair
Freed from prison, Frankenstein remains trapped in a suicidal despair, haunted by visions and unable to feel happiness.
- 13A New Resolve and Departure
Frankenstein resolves to protect his family and kill the monster, and he and his father depart from Ireland by sea.
- 14Laudanum and a Troubled Sleep
To escape his misery, Frankenstein takes laudanum but is tormented by nightmares until his father wakes him to a moment of calm.