First published in 2013

Transcription

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2 FRANKENSTEIN 2

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4 First published in 2013 Corporate & Editorial Office A-12, Sector 64, Noida Uttar Pradesh, India Phone: Website: Sales Office 4379/4B, Prakash House, Ansari Road Darya Ganj, New Delhi , India Phone: , Fax: Website: Copyright Om Books International 2013 Adapted by Taniya Sachdeva ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, except as may be expressly permitted in writing by the publisher. ISBN: Printed in India

5 Contents 1. The Rescue 2. The Beginning 3. A Dazzling Discovery 4. Creating the form 5. The Creature Came to Life 6. Disillusionment and Henry s Visit 7. The Letter 8. The Monster Came Back 9. Home 10. The Trial of Justine Moritz 11. The Confrontation 12. The Tale of the Monster 13. The Confession 14. The Monster s Wish 15. The Second Monster 16. Another Vile Creature? 17. The Third Victim 18. The Imprisonment 19. The Wedding 5

6 20. The Fourth Victim! 21. The Search for the Monster 22. The Last Victim About the Author Characters Questions 6

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9 Chapter One The Rescue The small sailing ship was in danger of being crushed by the frozen Arctic ice around it. The young English captain, Robert Walton, was thinking if it was right to gamble with the lives of his courageous crew for his personal aspirations, making them discover oceans and lands never explored before. Though born in a wealthy family, Robert chose not to live a luxurious life. For the last six years, he was a sailor, bearing the natural difficulties of cold, thirst, hunger and sleep-deprivation. He was preparing himself mentally and physically for this perilous voyage. He wished to find a sea route near the North Pole, from Europe to Asia. But, Robert was doubtful if they would be able to survive in the harsh conditions. It was during the afternoon that the thick sheet of fog began to lift, revealing an unusual spectacle. Pointing to a place half-mile away, a crewman cried, Captain, look there! It s a sledge with dogs. The driver sir! He s gigantic, but how did he reach the middle of this frozen sea? As Robert looked through his telescope, the mystery man vanished, leaving the crew shocked. The next day, Robert found his crew on the deck, apparently addressing someone below. He asked, With whom are you talking? One of them told him that it was a sledge similar to the one they had seen the day before. Robert went ahead and saw a sledge, some dead dogs, and the driver on a block of ice, coming towards the ship. The man was covered with snow but was slowly paddling with a plank of wood. He seemed to be on the verge of death. 9

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12 Robert looked carefully and said to his crew, The sledge and the man, both are different from yesterday. A sailor asked the man to board the ship, the weather being unpredictable. But, this didn t persuade the stranger, so Robert tried, You will die if you won t let my men help you. The snowcovered man replied, Thank you for your kindness, sir, but I need to know where this ship is headed? Robert was amazed at the question of a man, just a step away from death. Yet, he replied, Towards North Pole. The stranger agreed, apparently reassured, and was taken on board. The ship s doctor checked the stranger, and informed Robert of his bad health, Frozen legs, body too thin, bones showing through his skin. Robert immediately gave orders to his crew, Cover him in blankets. Soup will do him good. Make space in my cabin, I will look after him. Since the stranger didn t say anything for two days, Robert thought he had gone mad. Perhaps there had been some tragic incident in the past. He had a dark, intense look in his eyes and kept grinding his teeth constantly, yet his eyes sometimes glowed with gratitude towards the people on the ship. As the man got better, Robert questioned him, Why and how did you come here? The man, with a sad expression, replied, I am looking for someone a sledge like mine. We saw that sledge a day before we found you, Robert answered. This caught the man s attention, and he quickly sat up in bed, You saw that demon? Which way did he go? I have to know. Robert advised him to first take care of himself, and get well. The stranger sighed, Perhaps, you are right. I am grateful to you for rescuing me. There is a painful secret that I can t share with you right now, but soon I will. The man s health improved as the days passed, and he would keep sitting on the deck, his eyes always searching for the sledge. One day, while listening to the English captain s ambitions and dreams about exploration, he broke into tears, Ah! I had a keen thirst for knowledge too, but I ended up an unhappy man. So don t repeat the mistakes I made, Captain. It have only brought unhappiness to my loved ones. My story is the perfect specimen of a search gone awry. 12

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15 A puzzled Robert asked, Please share your story. Maybe I can help you. The man wiped his tears, and said, My destiny can t be changed. I will tell you about my tragic life. But before I die, I need to finish one last task. They went into their cabin, and the man narrated his story. 15

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18 Chapter Two The Beginning My name is Victor Frankenstein and I belong to one of the most esteemed families in Geneva, Switzerland. I had a happy family, with loving parents, two younger brothers, Ernest and William, and the orphaned daughter of an Italian family, Elizabeth Lavenza. She was younger so I called her my cousin. We grew up together with different approaches to life. She took pleasure in the beauty of nature, and I was taken with nature s incredible mysteries. I met my lifelong friend, Henry Clerval, during the school years. He was a lively and diligent boy, who wrote stories about knights, and then made me play the heroic parts with him. I wish I could relive those days and undo my mistakes! Wretched ambition led me down a grievous path. When I was thirteen, my increasing interest in science made way for a noble desire to help and cure people. At the age of fifteen, my scientific pursuit took a different turn, when during a violent storm, lightning struck an oak tree and reduced it to ashes. Astonished by the unbelievable power of electricity, I kept up my lust for learning, which continued when I was leaving home during my seventeenth year to study at the University of Ingolstadt. The first fateful incident occurred before I left home. Elizabeth, down with scarlet fever, was in danger. My mother looked after her consistently, and eventually she caught the fever. As she was appraching her end, she asked Elizabeth, I know you will take care of the family, but I want a special promise I want you and Victor to get married. We promised my dying mother that we would follow her wishes. I had almost cancelled my plans of going away from home, but my father persuaded me to go. I had to leave my family and my friend Henry behind, to venture out into the world. We waved our goodbyes, and I felt the heaviness in my heart as I parted from my dear ones. 18

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21 Chapter Three A Dazzling Discovery At the university, I desired to make my dreams come true, by pushing science and its incredible power beyond its limit to sustain human life and benefit all mankind. My favourite teacher, Professor Waldman, inspired me, You should read both modern and ancient scientists, as by joining these sources of knowledge, you will know the unknown about the earth, the heavens, and how the human body works. I interrupted him, saying, But, I want to know more than that. I had finally found my objective, I wished to know how a human body came into being, and not just how it worked. Professor Waldman was proud of my enthusiasm, and wished me success in my life. He was not only my teacher, but also a friend. During the two years at the University, I worked hard to achieve what I wanted, by attending lectures, reading papers and interacting with some illustrious scientists. My next step was to set up a laboratory on the top floor of my apartment, where I worked and practiced for my personal research during the days, and sometimes even at nights. One morning, I went to meet Professor Waldman, who congratulated me on my steady progress. I thanked him saying, It s your encouragement, which led me to the right path. Right now, I am focusing on the anatomy, so that I can reveal how human life originates. For this, I must find how it ends and decomposes. Professor Waldman was delighted, I knew it Victor! I knew you would bring about a change in the world. You have it in you to be the perfect scientist. Away from everyone, even your family It has been two years since you left your family. Don t you think it is time to go and visit them? I replied calmly, No sir, my project and ambition are too important for me at present. I can not afford to leave now. The professor was impressed with my dedication towards my work, and didn t mention home any further. 21

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23 The real exploration began in the next months, during which I went to charnel houses, where bodies were stored until they were buried. Wanting to know more, I even went to the cemeteries at night, digging up bodies to analyse how bodies decayed after weeks, months and years. After months of continuous experimentation something clicked in my mind, What if the dead could live again! And that was the turning point of my life. I questioned myself, Have scientists not thought about it before? Am I to uncover the truths of human life? Full of zeal, I worked industriously day and night, and was successful in producing life in lifeless objects. I was overjoyed at my astonishing discovery. This made me even more hopeful that my dream would be fulfilled one day. **** Here, Robert Walton, who was listening intently to Victor, cut in, Fantastic! But, what was that secret? How could death be turned into life? Victor, with a gloomy face, spoke, Oh, the cursed secret! I can t tell you that. I am here, in this position, because of that terrible secret. I have destroyed my life, I can not destroy yours! 23

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26 Chapter Four Creating the form I did not know that this power would lead to destruction. But, at that time, I was not thinking about the consequences. I was ecstatic with the power in my hands. It was not an ordinary feeling, and this power was more than I could handle. I had the original idea, and I knew in theory, of the creation of life. My dilemma was how to go about it. I wanted to put life into something, but what? A form had to be created animal or human, and I would need the apparatus for it veins, arteries, bones, flesh, to assemble all these into a figure. I was so engrossed with the experiment that for days together I didn t eat or sleep properly. My mind and imagination were both engaged in the setting up of the form, and then putting life into it. Then, a thought struck my mind, What if I create a human being? Yes, that s it. And, if I succeed in my endeavor, it will be written down in history. I will be called a great scientist! People will respect and thank me for bringing their dear ones back from the dead. 26

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28 To reconstruct the beautiful and complex figure of a human being, I had to keep in mind the minute yet vital parts of the body. Therefore, to fit in all the parts appropriately, the setup had to be bigger than a normal human body, about eight feet tall. I busied myself with gathering various body parts during the next few months. I did what was not to be done, and I went to places where I should not have gone to the charnel houses, to the cemetery for dead bodies, to the slaughter houses for animal parts. 28

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30 What followed was a period of continuous work for months and months. I locked myself away in my laboratory, ignoring what was happening in the outside world. The changing seasons meant nothing to me spring, winter, fall, summer, all passed, but I worked on like a maniac. I didn t give a thought to food, sleep, or my necessities. Many letters came from my family stating their worry about me, but nothing could break my concentration. Sometimes, I loathed myself for running after something that took me away from my family, yet I wanted to complete my work with perfection. This constant working under so much pressure led to my poor health I was tormented, anxious and restless. My eyes were watery, body feverish, and I felt a peculiar heaviness in my brain. Convincing myself that it would lead to a great discovery, I went on with my project. How I regret it now! 30

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33 Chapter Five The Creature Came to Life My work was completed by November. I can t forget what a dark, horrible night that was! It was raining heavily outside, and the lightning and the noise of the rain knocking on the windows added to the horror of what was to unfold. The memories of that vile night give me shivers. It was this night, when I decided to bring my creature to life. As there was no electricity, I was working under a candle s light, whicht was running out. All my instruments were ready, and the moment had come. I gently touched the creature with my instrument, and it brought him to life. He was alive! I stood there, rooted to the spot, my eyes fixed on the creature. The creature slowly opened its inanimate, yellow eyes. Then, he took a very long breath, which made his chest swell abnormally. Suddenly, to my horror, his body started shaking with convulsions. 33

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35 There was an awakening. Was this the result of my dedication? Was this really my creation? I hated myself at that moment for producing something so terrible, and frightening to the human eye. All my dreams came to an end after I saw his withered, pale skin, barely covering the flesh, the lank hair on his monstrous visage, and his grotesque form. I could not look at him, and ran to my apartment, hoping that it was all a dream. I tried to sleep and forget what had happened. I kept tossing on my bed restlessly, until I fell asleep. Though sleep came, it brought with it nightmares of death. I dreamt of Elizabeth and my mother. I woke up with a start, shivering all over. I still remember how the moonlight came through my window that night. I was quick to realize that someone was present in the room. It was the gigantic figure of the monster, lifting the curtains around my bed. It scared me out of my wits. He was standing and looking at me with an evil grin that showed his white teeth, wrinkled yellow skin and dark lips. Then, he opened his mouth and tried speaking, uttering senseless things. But, as he lifted his hand to touch me, I escaped from there to save my life. I rushed downstairs and hid myself in the courtyard to spend the rest of the dreary night. 35

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39 Chapter Six Disillusionment and Henry s Visit After staying in the courtyard for the entire night, I finally awoke around seven in the morning. All wet, and tired after the disturbance during the night, I had lost the will to do anything. I collected all the strength that I had and tried to stand on my feet. I instantly felt the urge to run as far as possible from that place. I found myself on the streets, as if I had gone crazy, not knowing where I wanted to go, or what I wanted to do. I had decided to not to go to my apartment where I had created that dreadful monster. 39

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41 I was scared and roamed aimlessly in the city, never to return to my house where that monster might be waiting for my return. Much later, while wandering, I saw an inn, where travelers in coaches stopped, while going in or out of the city. I kept standing there, and noticed that there was a coach that had come from Geneva. Suddenly, I came across a familiar face, and to my surprise, it was my dear friend Henry, waving and smiling at me. He rushed out of the coach to shake my hand. It is really good to see you after such a long time. But, how did you know I was coming here, Victor? he asked. I didn t it is a pleasant surprise Henry You ve come at the right time, said I. I was so happy to see Henry that I forgot all that had happened. Henry had convinced his father to allow him to pursue his thirst for knowledge, travelling around the world. He had come to Ingolstadt to study at the University, and to pursue his dreams like I did. After I met Henry, I remembered my family, and realised that I had not seen any of my family members for a long time. I asked Henry, You must know how my family is? Please tell me Henry! Your family is fine, So don t worry? But, I must tell you that while you were here, everyone was worried about you in Geneva. Why did you not write any letters? asked Henry. I was busy with something, I replied with a sigh. Victor, you don t seem fine. Are you in good health? Henry asked. I am not ill just exhausted, working tirelessly on a difficult project. But, it has finished now, I said with finality. While walking towards home, we talked about various things. But, on reaching my place, excitement turned into anxiety. I broke into a cold sweat, thinking of what might be waiting for Henry and me in the apartment. What if the monster was still there? I briskly ran upstairs to check if the creature was still there, and if it was, then it was necessary to stop Henry from finding my disastrous creation. Trembling with fear, I turned the knob, and opened the door. He was gone! 41

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44 Sighing with relief, and I called Henry inside. I started laughing, and I laughed wildly, which confused and frightened Henry. But, when I began jumping over things and clapping my hands like a madman, Henry shook me again and again holding me by my shoulders. I was behaving as if I had lost my mental balance, rolling my eyes, acting in a weird manner. Come to your senses, Victor. What is wrong with you? exclaimed Henry. Hallucinating that the monster was right there, standing at the doorway, I gestured towards it, and cried, He that monster is the real cause of my madness. You have to save me Henry, I don t want to die. Henry was perturbed to see my condition. The following months passed in a haze. But, I can never forget how devotedly Henry cared for me, without once letting my family know about my terrible state. All this while, my dark dreams continued, and I couldn t get the monster out of my head. Henry thought it was sheer madness, but he didn t know the source of it. It was only due to Henry s devotion and kindness that I started to recover, as the grim and dismal in me was fading away. I was returning to being my own self spirited and happy. I was thankful to Henry, who didn t go to University, but was by my side when I needed him, saving me from complete insanity. When I recovered fully, I took Henry to the University to introduce him to my fellow-students and professors. Professor Waldman was glad to meet Henry and praised my progress in the subject. But, this made me wonder if producing a monster was really progress. The praise hurt my ears. Henry could see I was uneasy, and changed the topic of discussion. How could I tell him? How could I burden him with my secret? I thought it would be better to keep it to myself rather than trouble Henry. 44

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47 Henry was intelligent and quick to understand that even the instruments in my laboratory made me uncomfortable. Without even asking me, he quietly collected all the instruments, removed them from my sight, and locked the room. I had made up my mind to leave my pursuit and studies after that horrific disaster. To pass my time, I read Henry s Oriental languages at the University. Together we studied languages, enjoyed the beautiful works of Persian writers, and appreciated the countryside during our long walks. A year passed, leading me away from the reality of the terror I had created. Eventually, I forgot about the monster. 47

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50 Chapter Seven The Letter It was a summer morning, when I received a letter from my father, after coming back from a walk. I quickly opened it and started reading. Geneva, May 13 Dear Son, As you know, we have all been looking forward to your visit. But, there is something I have to tell you. We are all in deep grief, as your dear brother William has been brutally murdered by someone. This dreadful incident took place last Friday evening, when we all, Elizabeth, William and Ernest had gone for a stroll in the forests of Plainpalais, one of your favourite places since childhood. The two boys were in a playful mood, and were joyfully sprinting ahead of us, while we followed them leisurely. They started playing hide-and-seek, as Elizabeth and I sat and talked in the park. When we thought it was time to go, Ernest came to us searching for William, who had gone to hide somewhere, but couldn t be found. Then, we also searched for hours, but to no avail. We came home dejected, but sent people with torches to the woods to carry on with the search. We didn t sleep all night, worried about William s safety. Then, we received the sad news that William s body had been found. I went there and it was heart wrenching to see the body of my lovely dear child, lying on the forest grass. Tears welled in my eyes, and I carried little William back home. It was hard to control Elizabeth, who continually blamed herself for allowing him to wear his mother s chain, which we thought was the cause for robbery and the murder of our William after we found some finger-marks on his neck, with the chain missing. Poor Elizabeth couldn t endure the loss and fainted. The murderer is still at loose. Please Victor, come home. We can t bear this suffering alone. We need you! 50

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54 My eyes flooded with tears as I finished reading. I couldn t believe that my little brother was murdered in cold blood. Who could do this? My mind stopped working, and I was numb for some time. Henry came into the room and asked, Victor, why are you crying? Is everything all right? I was not in a condition to reply and handed him the letter. He read the letter and both of us sobbed together for the innocent young life lost. 54

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57 Chapter Eight The Monster Came Back Without any delay, I left for Geneva in a carriage. Throughout the journey, memories of the beautiful past, and the naïve face of William, filled my heart with sorrow. By the time I reached Geneva, it was night and the city gates were closed. So, I had to stay at an inn near Lake Geneva for the night. I tried in vain to sleep, for my mind was riddled with queries. Giving up, I decided to take a boat and sail across the lake to go to the woods of Plainpalais to find the place where my brother was killed. I thought I would find some clues which could lead me to the murderer. Nervous yet determined, I finally reached the shore to find a lightning storm approaching the mountains. In no time, it started raining heavily, with flashes of lightning adding to the frightening atmosphere of the forest. As I was pulling my boat on to the shore, I thought I saw someone standing near the dark mountainside. I moved a little nearer, and even the figure moved out from behind the thick trees. I froze to the spot. Who was it, out in such a bad weather? All my doubts were cleared, when a sudden flash of lightning exposed the stranger s face. It was the monster, my hideous creation! How did he come here? Where was he all this time? Was he following me? And, was he responsible for my brother s murder? I quivered at this thought. Was I responsible for creating this demon, and for my brother s death? I knew the answer. It was him! No human could have committed such a horrible act. Only such a monster would have heartlessly murdered an innocent child. My head began to spin and I felt weak in the knees. Trying to stand, leaning on a tree, I saw the monster going up the mountain, climbing the rocks with an incredible speed. I started chasing him, but he was too fast for a human like me. In seconds, he vanished, and I just stood there, thinking of the dreadful night he came to life. 57

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59 Why did I do it? I could do nothing now, and guilt for what I had done tore me apart. He had killed my brother, and I was sure that this was not the only crime he had committed. He was a monster on the loose, out to hurt and kill innocent people. I shuddered at this thought, and I spent the night in agony on the mountainside. I reached Geneva with a heavy heart, and a guilty mind. I contemplated telling the police to search for the creature and kill him. But, was this possible? I was sure that the police would not believe my story. They would take me to be a madman and surely institutionalise me. I gave up the option of alerting the police. So, I had no clue about what had to be done to stop the monster. He was superior in strength, agility, and stature than an average human being. It was impossible to catch him! 59

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64 Chapter Nine Home It was early in the morning when I reached my family home. I should have been happy coming back home after two long years, but I was shattered by the news that had brought me home. I asked the servants not to wake my family as it was early yet. I entered the library, where I stood facing the pictures of my deceased mother and brother, William, placed on the mantelpiece. It was for a long time that I kept standing there, nostalgia making tears come into my eyes. Taking William s picture in my hand, I gazed at it, remembering his sweet and loving nature, and I hugged his picture close to my chest, and wailed in pain. When I opened my eyes, I saw Ernest standing and crying in front of me, and I took him to my arms, trying to console him and myself. We cried for a long time, and afterwards when we dried our eyes, I asked him, Tell me Ernest, are Father and Elizabeth better? Hope, they are able to bear this outrageous tragedy. Father has been strong and supportive during these difficult times. But, Elizabeth is still quite disturbed. She couldn t focus on anything, and kept accusing herself for being the cause of William s death. But, now that the real killer has been found answered Ernest. I interrupted, What? The real murderer has been discovered? Who s it, Ernest? But, how can that be possible, I saw him last night on the mountain? 64

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66 Ernest replied, On the mountain? No brother, the murderer is our very own servant, Justine Moritz. At first, we all couldn t believe it. But, the police have confirmed that she is the one. She was a good servant, and we were shocked to find she could do something like this for money. It added to our pain and misery. It is not possible, Ernest. Justine has been one of our most trusted servants. Why would she do that? I can t believe all this. Something is definitely wrong, I explained. There is a possibility that you could be right, as the evidence is not clear. The chain and locket with our mother s picture, if you remember, was taken from William neck. This chain was found by one of the servants in Justine Moritz s apron. And instead of coming to us with the chain and locket, she went straight to the police. The police came and instantly arrested Justine. Tomorrow is her trial, Ernest answered. I sighed, Justine can t do this. Why should she suffer, when she hasn t done anything? I pity her and myself. The real murder is out there and we can t even reach him. Just then, I saw my father and Elizabeth entering the library, before Ernest could even ask or react about what I had said. Elizabeth and father greeted me warmly, and welcomed me home, sorrow marring their faces. They joined in our conversation about Justine being the murderer. My father spoke, Victor, do you think we can t see that Justine is innocent. But, now nothing can be done. The involvement of the police has worsened the state of affairs. The trial will take place tomorrow. We are all praying that the court rules in favour of our devoted servant. At that moment, Elizabeth came up to me and pleaded, Please Victor, something should be done to save an innocent person from being wrongfully punished. I know she is innocent. She loved William, and she has been with us for years. How can we forget how she used to take care of your mother? Believe me, she is innocent. 66

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71 Chapter Ten The Trial of Justine Moritz Next day was crucial for all of us, most importantly for Justine who was on trial for the murder of William. We all went to the courtroom, and each one of us prayed for Justine to come out not guilty. Inside me, there was a tussle, and I wanted to go to the courtroom, stand in the witness box and tell the world that I was the real culprit and not Justine, who was a victim like my brother William. And if she is punished for the murder she didn t do, then it would be a crime a second murder. I was responsible for all this misery in their lives. I wanted to bring great things to the world; instead, I brought pain and death. I couldn t even confess my secret crime, as I would have been considered insane. I hoped with all my heart that Justine sould be declared innocent. 71

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73 The trial began and the first thing to be brought up was the circumstantial evidence found in her apron-pocket. She was not caught red-handed doing the crime, and therefore, there was no real proof against her. When the judge asked her what had happened, she said, Honourable sir, I can clearly recall the night when dear William went missing. After the news reached me, I was worried and went with the others to the woods to look for him. When I was returning home, the city gates were closed and I had to spend the night in a barn in a nearby village. When the day dawned, I realised I had slept for too long, and was woken up by the sound of footsteps. Sir, I am telling the truth. I sincerely do not know how the locket came to be in my pocket. It seems to me that someone had put that chain in my apron s pocket while I was asleep. But, sir why would anyone do that? I have no enemies who would want to trap me in a crime. Why would someone kill William and put the chain in my pocket, then why did he kill him altogether, for nothing? And, had I killed him, would I openly carry the evidence with me? Please sir, I am not the murderer. Elizabeth was then called to the stand. She said, Sir, Justine has been working with us for years and she has been a loyal servant and a great help. Her character is clean, and I can assure you she has the Christian heart of a good woman, who will never do anything to be ashamed of. Our efforts to save Justine went in vain as the judge was convinced that she had ruthlessly killed William for the locket, which was found in her pocket. She was pronounced guilty. I rushed out of the courtroom, cursing myself, unable to tolerate the guilt. I can not even face my own self, so how will I face the outside world, thought I. It was I who had created that devil to wreak havoc on people s lives. I should have been punished, and not Justine. As I was ruminating, Elizabeth and my father came out of the courtroom, speechless and their faces expressionless. Poor Justine, why did she say it? It s gotten worse than we imagined, cried Elizabeth. What happened inside? What are you saying, Elizabeth? What did she say? I asked. She confessed to the crime, Son. I don t know why she did it, but now there is no way to save her, my father said sadly. I was taken by surprise, She confessed? But, why? She can t do this to herself. 73

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75 Then, Elizabeth was called by a court clerk to come in and meet Justine who wanted to speak to her for the last time. Elizabeth was in no state to face her alone and asked me to accompany her to Justine s room. I couldn t say no to her, but my mind was in tumult, and I was reproaching myself, How could I let this happen? Justine is behind bars because of me. She is on the verge of being hanged, and I am free after committing the biggest crime in the history of hmanity. I detest myself. How will I ever forgive myself for ruining two lives! 75

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78 I went ahead with Elizabeth to where Justine was. She was in her cell, sitting on a pile of straw, resting her head on her knees, with her hands chained. Seeing us, she ran up to Elizabeth and started weeping, falling at her feet. Elizabeth exclaimed, Why, Justine, why did you confess? Why did you lie? You know you didn t do it. Then, why? Justine answered in sobs, Yes it s true, I confessed but, I couldn t see another way. I was trapped. They forced me to lie, and confess. They warned me that I wouldn t go to heaven if I didn t confess. So, fearful of God s wrath, I said I did it. But, there s no hope! I feel horrible about the lie I told them. Elizabeth, I am happy that you all believe me. Now, I can look forward to a peaceful death, as God can t be unfair. He knows that I have a pure heart and I wouldn t murder someone who was like my own child. Looking at the two women crying and sobbing made me experience a strong sensation of pain and unbearable agony. Responsible as I was for their separation, I was helpless, without a solution. Elizabeth and I struggled to make the judge understand, but in vain. To our despair, the very next day, Justine was taken to the town square and was sentenced to death. William died. Justine died. Then, why was I still living? I had no right to live. Suicide was the perfect solution to end my torment. I couldn t bring myself to it, thinking who would look after Father and Elizabeth after I was gone. And the monster, how could I forget him? He was still out there, waiting to take more lives, kill more people. So, I decided that I would continue living to protect my family. It was not the time to just think, but act against the monster. I took an oath to find the devil, even at the cost of my life. He would have to pay the price for the harm he had done to my family. 78

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83 Chapter Eleven The Confrontation I was very depressed after Justine s execution, and found it impossible to stay at home. Unable to cope with the burden of two deaths, I went off to the quiet village of Chamounix, alone. For a complete month, I went for walks along the glaciers in the beautiful Alpine valley, which helped in uplifting my spirits. In the calm and peaceful lap of nature, I forgot what I had been through. The fresh mountain air beneath Mont Blanc relaxed me, and I started feeling better. But, it didn t go on for long. One morning, when I woke up, I looked outside the window and was unable to see the usual natural beauty. Dark clouds and a deluge of rain blocked my view. Even this windy and rainy weather couldn t deter me from going out for my daily trip to the mountaintop. I really liked this part of the day when I climbed, and sat on the top watching the serene and silent movement of the glaciers from the top, sloping downwards. 83

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85 The downpour continued and I went on with my mule slowly climbing up the steep, winding, narrow path. It was by noon that we reached the mountaintop and the next step was to go across the glacier. It took me two hours to cross the glacier which was three-mile wide, and full of deep cracks, and chasms in the ice. It stopped raining finally, and sun brought some muchneeded relief. The sun made the ice on the mountains shine like a diamond, and the view was ethereal. All this led to a change of mood, and once again I lit up with joy, looking at the abundant beauty surrounding me. Just when I was basking in nature s beautiful bounty, I discerned a figure running towards me with superhuman speed. As it came nearer, I made out that it was a giant, human-like shape approaching me. The form ran and jumped over dangerous rifts and ice surfaces, and I stood there in amazement, witnessing the impossibility of such an occurrence. Who was this mysterious creature? But, I was not in the dark for too long. When he came very near, all my happiness turned into bitterness. It was the hideous monster himself! I shook with uncontrollable anger after seeing the reason of my sufferings right in front of me. I wanted to confront him, and show him the hatred I felt for him, and if possible, destroy him forever. You monster, how can you even dare to face me? How I wish to see you dead. My hatred for you is immeassurable, since you are responsible for the untimely death of two innocent people, I shouted at him. He calmly replied, I was expecting this outburst. I am not shocked to see your hostility towards me. I am ugly, so I am abhorred by the world around. But, is it my fault that I am not worth looking at? No, this is your fault. You are my creator, and you created me like this an ugly, gigantic monster, who is homeless and has no family. 85

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88 By this time, I had lost my cool, and leaped at him, scratching his pallid, wrinkled face. But, he was more powerful than I had imagined, he caught my arm in his vice-like grip. I couldn t move. The monster spoke, I know that you are my creator, so I advise you to calm yourself, and listen to me. Please, stop blaming me for all your misfortunes. No, why should I listen to you? You are an evil creature, a devil in appearance and deeds. I don t want to hear anything, I declared. So, you don t want to know my suffering and the pain I went through? I was lonely and sad. I was kicked and scorned by everyone. Who is responsible? You are, Victor Frankenstein, you are! said he, with a sullen expression on his face. I told him, Even I can t forgive myself for bringing to life something as horrendous as you. The monster screamed, But, can you deny that you created me? No, you can t, and now it s your duty to hear what I have to say. And then, if you still hate me, you are free to kill me. But, please bear with me till then. All this while I was cursing myself for this evil creation and its repercussions. I spoke with finality, I have made up my mind. I will not listen to anything you say. Go away, you hurt my eyes. 88

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90 All of a sudden, the monster covered my eyes with his big hands, and said, You don t have to look at me to hear me. Just listen to my voice and forget the face behind it. I removed his hand with disgust. Then, the vile creature started pleading, Please, pay heed to my tale. Turn your back if you want to, but hear me out. Grant my request, and I will leave you. He kept begging and pleading. I don t know why but I finally gave in. I think it was apprehension, or my inquisitive nature, or even pity for him. I turned to him, and said, Fine, I will listen to you. 90

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92 He said his story was a long one and would take some time to finish. And, it would be impossible to sit outside in the cold for too long. So, we went across the glacier to the hut on the mountain. He briskly ascended the steep mountains and I followed him, slowly and carefully. He had reached the hut before me, and I saw him preparing a fire for us to sit and talk. We finally sat down and he began his story. 92

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95 Chapter Twelve The Tale of the Monster If you can recollect, when I came to life, I opened my eyes, and was no different than an infant, who comes into the world, without any perceptions. Even though I was just born, my body was not of a newborn baby. I was an adult physically, who could use his senses. All this was so new for me, and obviously I was scared. You were the first person I saw after I came into this world. So, I came to you for help, like a child to his parent. I was disheartened to see you run away from me, deserting me, leaving me to fight with an unknown world all alone. I didn t know where to go, and what to do. After you left me, I wrapped your cloak around my body, as I felt the cold. The only way I saw was to go out of your house, and I went away from you and our home into the forest outside Ingolstadt. I cried for some days, thinking of my miserable situation, and considering myself a wretch. As I kept walking on and on, I was tired and wanted to rest. I slept under a tree, on the cool yet damp earth of the forest, near the stream. I don t know for how many hours I slept, but after I woke up, I was hungry and thirsty. The difficulties related to human necessities had begun. For food, I ate some berries and fruits that I found in the forest, and to quench my thirst, I relied on the water from the brook. A month passed by in the forest. These woods taught me a lot of valuable things, as I looked at the sun rising and setting, the moon shining in the night, and the difference between the two lights that illuminated the sky at two different times. Nature has a tremendous power, and I recognised it when I watched birds flying over me, making sweet and melodious sounds. I attempted imitating those sounds but wasn t successful. Whenever I made an effort to produce sounds out of my mouth, it was cacophonic unlike the birds melody. I was desolate and dejected at my failure to do so. 95

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98 I decided to explore the woods. One day, I saw something glowing at a distance. When I went near it, it felt warm and comforting. Afterwards, I came to know that it was fire. But, at that moment I put my hand to lift the burning logs, and uttered a cry. I had burnt my hand, and I became aware that something that can provide comfort can also hurt. After the fire went out, I carefully examined what made fire. It was only the small sticks from the trees, and the air that made fire possible. I tried to put berries and fruits in fire but they tasted bad, but when I cooked nuts, they tasted even better than before. So, I learnt some basics of what could be cooked with fire. I stayed in the woods for some days, but after some time, it became difficult for me to find food. So I left the woods to discover another terrain, where one could not put one s feet on the ground for a long time, as it hurt due the white sheet of ice beneath. I wandered in a similar manner for three or four days, when suddenly, one morning I came across a hut. Hungry and tired, I opened the door to find an old man preparing his food. The moment he saw me, he stood there in horror and ran out of the hut shrieking, as if I had come to hurt him. I had no such intentions. I looked at the food with hungry eyes, and ate my fill, and arranged the straw on the ground for some sleep. It was noon when I woke up, and thought of proceeding with my wandering. I took along some food from the old man s hut to eat later. The walk seemed endless, but at last I reached a village. I wondered at the nicely constructed houses. Every house in the village had a vegetable garden, and it seemed to me that here I would never run out of food. I happily entered one of the houses to scare the people sitting there. The women fainted after seeing me, and children screamed and ran away from me. Everyone in the village started gathering around me, looking at me with fear and disgust. The villagers saw me as a threat, and in no time, they started chasing me with sticks, rocks and iron tools. I escaped with my life, and entered the open fields. 98

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101 After travelling for I don t know how many hours, I saw a wooden shed attached to a cottage. I used to enter the houses, scare people, and get chased, but this time I had lost the courage to do so. The bad memories of the village incident came back to me, and I refrained from opening the door of this cottage. The shed was cozy yet a small place for me as I could barely sit there, and it was impossible to stand. Yet it felt as if I had found my own home, a place I could come back to, without running the risk of frightening people. The place would provide me shelter from snow and rain, and I could sleep peacefully. As I looked around, I came across a big crack which led into the cottage. I was very hungry, and therefore went into the cottage through the crack to find bread, and a cup for drinking water. I continued living in the shed, and after a few days, I got to know that three people used to live in that cottage. The De Lacey family had a blind and aged father, his daughter, Agatha and son Felix. It was obvious that they were poor. Agatha and Felix often went out of their home and worked hard to get food for their helpless father, even if they themselves were starving. They had a small vegetable garden and a cow which didn t produce enough milk, and because of this scarcity of food, they could never eat their fill. The family according to me was a perfect one as each loved and cared for the other selflessly, and this touched me. I was moved and decided not to steal their food, but would help them to find more by travelling in the forest at night and getting berries, nuts and fruits, and whatever I could find for them. I even used to go out at night to help the family by cutting wood, and placing it at their doorstep to give them a pleasant surprise every morning. The family was delighted with the miraculous help they were receiving. They used the wood to light a fire in their cottage and cook food, and enjoy its warmth at the same time. At night, they lit a candle and would read to their blind father. They read from books as they called it, which were made of things like meaning and words. 101

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103 I wondered at the ease with which they could communicate with each other. Gradually, I got to know that language had the power of communication, and was used to express what one feels. Fascinated by language, I practiced imitating how they spoke, what sounds they made, how they used the tongue and the mouth. I had made up my mind to learn the human art of speaking and make myself understandable to others. And finally, after several months of practice, I learnt how to talk. I wanted to go to them and introduce myself and speak of what I felt, hoping that they would ignore my ugly form. I found out that I was an eyesore, as I saw my reflection in the water. I craved to cover my visual hideousness through the persuasive power of speech. Life went on like this, but one fine morning, came a woman riding on a horse to meet Felix. I discovered from their talks that her name was Safie. she didn t speak in the same way as Agatha and Felix did, and also belonged to a country known as Turkey. I was confused about her motive of coming, and at last knew that she was Felix s fiancée and had come to marry Felix. The weeks after her coming to the house were utilised in helping her learn the language of the De Laceys. As they taught Safie, I grabbed the opportunity, paid attention, and started learning their language. Luckily, one day while walking through the forest, I tumbled upon a suitcase, which contained some books and clothes. Along with Safie, I used the books to read, speak and rehearse. 103

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106 I led this simple and pleasurable life during the following winter and spring, and it was only due to this loving family that I had begun to see myself as a part of their family, as I felt close to them, and loved them very much. I was grateful to them for making me learn their language. I was even happier to see my progress at being able to read and speak quite like they did. Sometimes, when I used to feel very lonely, I thought, How does it matter if I know how to speak and read? Is there anyone whom I could talk to? What is the use of this power, when I can t even share and express what I truly feel? Will people accept me, overlooking my loathsome appearance? Will anyone ever look at me with the kind of love, that I have seen in the eyes of Safie and Felix? Will I ever have a family, or even a friend? What can I expect from others, when my own creator hates me? When I had left your place, I took along your cloak to protect me from cold, but in the pocket of that cloak, I found your diary. The diary was nonsensical to me till the time I didn t know how to read. But, as I learnt the art of language, it started making sense to me. I tried reading your notebook, and the more I read it, my bitterness for you kept on increasing. I read your feelings and thoughts, while you were still in the process of creating me and also when you had created me. I was heart-broken to read your thoughts about me. My creator despised me for the ugliness he himself had created. I wanted to ask you, Why did you bring me to life? And even if you did, why did you make me so ugly? I am your creature, yet I hate you for creating, and then abandoning me. 106

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109 I tried to forget your injustice, and placed my hope in the affectionate De Lacey family. I was convinced that they would accept me, overlooking my ugliness. I knew that I would find a companion in them, who would listen to my story, and would give me shelter. But I had fear at the back of my mind. What if they didn t understand me? Or took me for an enemy? I wanted to gain their confidence and support, yet something kept pulling me away from confronting them. A year passed since I had started living in the shed. And, I had made up my mind to confront them. I had thought of a perfect arrangement to make an entry into the house when the children were gone and their blind father was alone. Since he could not see, he would not be scared by my horrible self, but would focus on my story. And, when I would have made him my friend, he would introduce me as a good person to his children, and they too would finally consider me a friend. I found my chance when the children had gone to the village fair. I thought that it was the perfect time to introduce myself to the old man. I gathered courage and knocked at the door. The old man asked me to come inside, and asked who I was. I informed him that I was a traveler, tired and hungry, looking for a place to spend the night. He welcomed me and offered me food. I was very happy with his hospitality and he talked to me about many things. We also discussed the need for friends in our life. I drew a breath of relief since I was sure of becoming his friend. He would perhaps, understand my emotions. Just as I was holding his hand, delighted to spend some hours in his company, the door opened. I saw Felix, Agatha and Safie at the door, staring at me in horror. Agatha fainted, Safie ran away and Felix attacked me with all the force he could, and beat me with sticks as I fell on the ground. I could have killed him if I wanted to but I didn t harm him in any way. Full of misery and gloom, I rushed out of the cottage. I walked and kept walking until it was dark, and I reached the woods. I cried for I was alone once again, with no one to talk to and no one to call a friend. Thinking about my deplorable state, an uncontrollable rage came over me. I could think of nothing but revenge. I desperately wanted to avenge the atrocities I bore because of you, Victor Frankenstein. Hence I stood against you, against the people and this world. 109

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114 Chapter Thirteen The Confession I knew what I had to do next. I had to find you. From your diary, I came to know that you lived in Geneva. Felix s geography lessons to Safie helped me in finding you. I set out, heading in the southwest direction. While I was travelling towards your home, nothing other than hate for you was on my mind. I cursed you every moment for my existence, for the scorn I suffered every time I met a human. I lamented my state and decided that it was time for you and the world to pay the price. I could think of nothing but revenge. 114

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116 As it was not possible for me to wander during the day, I only moved out at night in the cold. It snowed everywhere, and it became very difficult for me to walk on the icy ground. But still, I continued my journey determined to reach you. As I came nearer to my destination, my anger and hate for you multiplied. All winter I travelled on foot, avoiding the areas which humans inhabited and sleeping in the open fields as people hardly came there. Then, spring came and the sun came out, making it easy for me to travel. I relished the warmth of the sun, and finally reached the Swiss border. There I travelled in the daytime, hiding carefully and avoiding paths which humans walked on. I made my own path to pass through the woods without bumping into any human being. Then, as I was crossing a river one day, I heard some voices. I realised that some humans were around, and hid behind a tree. I saw a girl laughing and running from someone. Suddenly, she lost control and slipped, falling into the river. Something came over me and I jumped in the river to save her. The current of the water was very strong and the girl was pulled out towards the rapids. Even I had to exert myself to save her. Finally, after much struggle, I pulled her out of the river. I brought her to the shore and back to consciousness. While I was trying to revive her, her father came, snatched her from me and went back to the forest. I didn t understand what made him do this, and I went behind him. I think my following him irritated the man. He took out his gun, and fired several shots at me. It took me a few minutes to realise that these small bullets could do a great deal of harm. I cried out in pain, with blood oozing out of my wounds. I said to myself, Is this the way to thank someone for rescuing his daughter from drowning? I just wanted to save her. Where did I go wrong? Again, I was full of rage for every human alive. I took care of myself in the forest, cleaning my wounds and waiting for them to heal. When I recovered, I resumed my search for you, only revenge on my mind. 116

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119 It was after two months of travelling that I reached the forests outside Geneva. One evening, when I was sitting under a tree, trying to think about how to reach you, I saw an innocent and beautiful child coming towards me. My heart filled with hope as I thought that he was only a child, unable to recognise what s beautiful and what s ugly. Being so lonely, I just wanted a friend, and thought that the child would be my companion. I held out my hand and reached for him. As I held him in front of me, the boy behaved like a grown-up. He closed his eyes with his hands and started shouting. I assured him that I won t hurt him but he didn t listen to me, and began insulting me, and screaming, Ugly monster, go away. Don t come near me. You don t know my father, Alphonse Frankenstein. If he comes to know that you are not letting me go, he will call the police and they will put you away in prison. It dawned on me that he was from the family of my creator, and here was the perfect chance to take revenge for the torments I had to bear. I was in pain for all this time and now, it was your turn to taste your own medicine. Aware of what my action could do, how much it would hurt you, I went ahead and grabbed the child by the neck to silence him. He was silenced forever. He lay in front of me dead, and I was happy to have killed him as he was from the family of my enemy. After I killed the child, I looked at him, and found a locket around his neck. The locket had a picture of a beautiful lady, and I felt how such beauty was a contrast to my wickedness. This only made me hate you more. After the murder, I held on to the locket and walked on to Geneva. While travelling, I came across a barn and there I found a woman sleeping. Afraid that she would wake up and see me, and she would later identify me as the boy s killer, I slowly went near her. I dropped the locket into her pocket. It wasn t that I held a grudge against her, But, I just remembered how terribly mankind treated me. This action of mine was just to make mankind suffer through her. When this locket would be discovered in her pocket, she would be condemned as the one who murdered the boy. I was curious to know what happened after, and thus, hidden from sight, I waited for the boy s dead body to be found. I went into the city after the others, and got to know that the woman was accused of the murder and arrested. 119

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122 I roamed in Geneva, and I waited for you. I knew you would come running after hearing of this death. And, I was right! You came. I wanted to talk to you, confront you face to face. And, here we are, just as I had wanted! 122

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125 Chapter Fourteen The Monster s Wish The tale of the monster had ended, and he was looking at me with questioning eyes, as if he wanted to know what I thought of it. Perplexed whether to pity him, for the cruelty he had to endure, or to condemn him for his crimes, I was speechless. What could I say? I just wanted to know what he expected of me. After a brief silence, I asked, Now, that your wait is over, and we are here, please tell me what you want of me. At this question, the eyes of the monster glimmered, and he answered, To survive in this world, we all need people around us, like you have your friends and your family to take care of you when you need them. But I, I don t have anyone. I am lonely, and I feel horrible about it. I also need a friend, who would understand me, help me, sympathize with me, love me, look after me, and talk to me. I was bewildered, A friend what do you mean? As you created me, create someone who is as ugly as I, who will not turn her back on me because of my ugliness. I want you to give life to my companion, my wife, he concluded. I was furious at his unreasonable demand, What? You want me to bring another vile monster into the world. No, I would never do that. If you want, you can murder me here, but I won t repeat the mistake of creating someone like you. Please, try and understand that I am not here to kill you, but I wish to live a life where I have someone to depend upon. I have tried my best to live with humans, but they cannot tolerate me. This is all your fault! Honestly, tell me, can you bear looking at me? calmly replied the monster. No, but it doesn t mean that I would produce another hostile creature, just because of you. I won t do it again, said I. 125

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128 The monster was unable to take this rejection, he started rolling his eyes and making horrible faces, and exploded with anger, Did you think twice before creating me? I am a monster because you made me one. If you can t do it, be ready to see a dead face every day in your family and in the world. And then I will as well, kill you if you don t fulfill what I wish. I was scared of the way monster reacted and moved away, closing my eyes. The next moment as I opened my eyes, I saw him sitting on the ground, pleading, Please, I beg of you. I don t want anything else. Just give me my companion and I will go away from here. I will not hurt anybody. Please, do this for me. His emotional outburst touched my heart, and I contemplated if I was right in denying him his friend. Yes, he was alone. I was the reason for his loneliness, and nobody would sympathise with him because of his ugliness. The creature was intelligent, and also very sensitive. So, could I not do this for him? I was his creator, and I owed him something. The monster could see I was in a turmoil, and continued with his argument, I promise you if you do this for me, we would go faraway where humans don t live, and would set up our own world, without hurting anyone. No one would come to know of our existence. I am lonely, Victor. I will be grateful to you for life. I knew I was softening inside after hearing his story. I couldn t refrain myself from sympathising with his pathetic condition. He came up to me, and stood in front of me, searching my face for the decision I had made. His horrid face forced me to reason again. Would it be right to produce another monster. But, he did promise that he and his companion would leave Europe. I thought it over for a while and finally announced my decision, I will do it. I will create your friend. But, promise me again that after I create her, you two will go far away. I assure you of that. Our existence would not be known. I thank you for this. Now, I plead you to start your work immediately, and create my companion. I will be keeping an eye on you. And when the work will near its completion, I will come back to take her. 128

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131 Satisfied, he left and ran into the mountains with an astonishing pace. He faded into the whiteness of the snow on the ground. It was late evening when I left the mountaintop, and I travelled the entire night to finally reach the bottom of the valley. As I descended the mountain, I cried and reproached myself for the result of my work. It was dawn when I reached Chamounix, and without any further delay left for Geneva to prepare myself for the terrible task ahead. 131

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134 Chapter Fifteen The Second Monster My arrival at home initially brought joy to the family members, but as the time passed by, they sensed that something was wrong with me. All of them asked me several times if I was well. But, I was not in the right frame of mind to answer any of their questions. My mind was focussed on only one thing and that was the creation of another monster. I wasn t able to muster enough courage to start my work just days after I had returned home, but having promised the monster, I was fearful that he might attack if his demands weren t met. Everyone in my family was upset about my poor health, and helped me recover with their care and affection. I had to start work to save my family from the death threat of the monster, so I prepared myself for it. 134

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136 It was only after a few weeks that, I finally figured out how to proceed. I picked up my books again and studied them to refresh what I had learnt during the creation of the first monster. I was excited about something again. My father too could see my health was improving steadily. One day, he came up to me and said, Son, I am happy to see you taking an interest in things again. We must leave the past behind us, and live in the present to shape our future. I hope you understand what I mean. I am talking about you and Elizabeth. It s time to fulfil the promise that you made to your mother. You and Elizabeth should now marry. I am aging now, and who knows for how much longer I have to live. Son, this is the right time. I agreed to his wishes, told him of my love for Elizabeth, and assured him of my intentions of marrying her as soon as possible. But, even as I kept up a calm appearance in front of everybody, inside I was a tormented soul. Before I could think of marrying Elizabeth, I had to create a wife for the monster. I had another promise to fulfil. Though every step I took towards fulfilling my promise made my heart writhe in agony, I had no other choice but to do it, and protect my family. While I was staying at home, trying to put things together for the second monster, I read about some new discoveries related to the human body taking place in England. I decided to go to England to take my work forward. I was scared of my secret being revealed. So, for my family s safety, I planned to go away and work alone. I informed my father about my intentions of going out of Geneva again for a few months. I told him I meant to complete some studies, and afterwards then I would come back and marry Elizabeth. My father and Elizabeth were relieved to see me recovering. They were happy with my decision, but they didn t want me to go alone. So, they planned to send Henry with me to England. 136

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139 I agreed with the arrangement, and by the end of September, Henry and I left for England, crossing France, Germany and Holland on our way. I had already calculated that to complete my work, I would not need more than six months in England. But, with Henry by my side I couldn t really begin for he didn t know anything of my plans. For the first two months, we visited some friends in Scotland and travelled through the English Lake. I would think about my project every day but kept delaying it. Then a thought struck me, what if the monster was keeping an eye on us, following us everywhere we went? He said he would watch me secretly. And if he knew about the delay, he could harm my loved ones at Geneva. No, the terrible ordeal of creating the female monster had to begin; the promise had to be met. 139

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141 I would panic at every small thing, even after I had made up my mind. When I didn t receive any letter for some days from my family, I suspected the worst. Henry could also be in danger, so I always kept a check on where he was going or what he was doing. All this was becoming maddening. So, I finally made up my mind to begin. The first thing was to learn about the new discoveries made in the human body and arrange for the required instruments and materials. I got everything together and made notes on what I wold need to do and where I would need to go. I went up to Henry one day, and told him, Henry, you have been a great help, but now I want you to stay here with our friends in Scotland for a month or two. I desire to be alone for some time. I will come back after things are better, and I promise you that I will use this time alone to refresh my mind and soul. Understanding what I wished, he replied, Victor, I know you and I will never stop you doing what s good for you. So, you go wherever you feel it is right for you to go, and come back as the Victor I have always known. Now, go and come back quickly. I was relieved after Henry s reassuring words and now focused on my mission. Leaving Henry behind, I went off to a barren group of islands called the Orkney Islands, situated off the coast of Scotland. I decided to stay at one of the islands; it was like living on a big rock and not more than six people inhabited it. I had taken on rent a small, rickety hut the roof was thatched, two seedy rooms had plaster coming off the walls, doors were without its hinges, and the furniture was in a miserable condition. Even in this hopeless environment, I had to work. So, I got the things repaired and set the space right to convert the rooms into my laboratory. All settled down, I finally began. The body parts were first assembled, and the woman s body started taking shape. I loathed my work even more, recalling the days of my earlier mistake. Sometimes, I didn t enter the laboratory because of the guilt in my heart. I had to drag myself to the laboratory to go on, and there were times when I worked day and night, without rest or food. 141

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144 I was like a man possessed. My mind stopped thinking of anything else other than the promise to the monster. Devoid of all sensation, I continued working in the nightmarish laboratory. I was anxious at times, sensing the monster secretly watching me from the window outside. As I was nearing completion, the ghastly form of the woman appeared to me as evil, and even while sleeping, the body lying in the laboratory would haunt me. 144

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147 Chapter Sixteen Another Vile Creature? I was working in the laboratory one evening, and feeling tired, I sat on the chair placed there. While I was sitting, I closed my eyes and tried to relax, but it seemed impossible for me to do so. Disturbing thoughts riddled my head about the monster that I was about to create. I remembered how passionate I used to be, discovering, inventing and enhancing my knowledge. It had all collapsed when the first monster came into being. Now, after three years, I was producing another of the same kind an evil creature. I am creating another fiend, for the one I have already brought to life. I was blinded with lust for innovation. The existing one is evil, but what will happen once this creature lying lifeless in the laboratory comes to life? What if it is even more fiendish than the first monster? What if I am on the brink of putting mankind in danger by bringing her to life? I don t know what this creature will turn out to be. Will she murder and kill people, will she go with the first monster, and leave Europe or not. What if she refuse to go with the monster, because of his hideous visage and form, or he doesn t like her? What if she and he like each other and together go away, and produce small monsters like themselves? My mind seemed ready to burst, flooded with so many questions and thoughts at the same time. 147

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149 I was horrified by the questions in my heart, and if they came true, I knew humankind would be in grave danger. Beads of perspiration sat on my forehead, and my hands started shivering as I stood up, contemplating the degree of harm that could be inflicted upon the people of the world. Just as I was in this quandary, a face appeared outside the window. I looked keenly and was frightened to see that it was the monster himself, staring at me and the body of his companion. As I gazed, I saw a very evil, fiend-like smile on his face, and I knew he was happy to see his bride almost ready to be brought to life. That smile was an eye-opener for me. I understood the monster s evil intentions. He didn t want a companion, but a comrade-in-arms who would create mayhem in the human world. I blamed myself for promising him his bride. 149

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151 Outraged and unable to control myself, I started shouting and attacked the body lying on the laboratory table. I was completely out of mind and in no time, I tore apart the hands, legs, and other body parts. When the body was dismembered to my satisfaction, I looked at the shocked face of the monster standing outside the window. His face was red with rage, and growling in misery and anger, he vanished into the night. Finally, I turned my back, and left the laboratory. I went to the window at my bedside and it took me a few hours to calm down. While gazing at the sea, I saw the fishing boats moving on the water, and heard the fishermen calling out to each other. 151

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153 As I gazed at the sea, trying to fathom its vastness, I saw a small boat coming towards the shore at incredible speed. The boat was approaching my house, and as it reached the shore, a figure jumped out of the boat. I didn t have a doubt about what he was, but I was too shocked to react and remained seated in my chair. Seconds later, my door opened and I saw the monster at the door. He came in and pointed at me, Victor Frankenstein, I saw you from the window. I was happy to see my companion, but you destroyed my wife! You have broken your promise. Why did you do this? Why did you promise me at all? I screamed back in rage, Go away, you monster, leave me alone. Yes, I broke my promise. I was blinded by your argument, but, now I have realised how wrong I was. I can t create more vile creatures! The monster exploded, Evil? Ugly? Don t forget that you made me, and you made me more powerful than you. You can not imagine how you will repay for your mistake. I was determined, So, now you will threaten me? Do whatever you can but I won t budge. Show your power and I won t be frightened. I could sense the anger boiling within him, and he screamed, Ha! My power! You want to see my power? You created me, yet you don t know what I am capable of doing. You think you will be happy after all this? Never will you experience happiness again. I promise you that I will make your life just as miserable as you have made mine. You will curse your very existence every moment from now. You have denied me my friend, and I will make sure that you remain as lonely as I am. You have given my life a mission, and now I will live just for revenge. I stand here, against you and your human world. Now, just wait and watch your world fall apart. 153

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155 Enough of your threatening! Away, you devil, out of my sight! were my final words to him. He rolled his eyes and with a sinister look on his face warned me, I am going right now, but I will be back for you. Be prepared! I won t forget what you have done to me, and won t let you forget it either. See you on your wedding night. I went after him to catch him, but my human form was no match for his monstrous figure. In moments, he fled from my room, jumped into his boat, and rowed away. Standing on the shore, I looked as he went away. But, I wasn t able to forget his words. My wedding night! He could do anything, and these thoughts sent a shiver down my spine. Poor Elizabeth! She would have to see his monstrous face. I didn t care about what would happen to me, but I was worried about Elizabeth and the terrible ordeal she would have to face because of me. I vowed that I wouldn't die without a fight, and I braced myself for the inevitable. 155

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160 Chapter Seventeen The Third Victim I decided to leave the island next morning. I had been receiving letters from Henry and now I thought to head towards Scotland and join him. Before leaving the rented room, I had to tidy up the laboratory, so that the people on the island would not be suspicious, and disgusted with what I had been attempting. This disagreeable task was to be done quickly. I couldn t avoid it, so I opened the door to witness the horrible sight. Mutilated body parts lay strewn everywhere in the room. I set to work collecting my medical instruments, gathering the flesh and bones, cleaning the floor, and packing everything in a large suitcase. Taking the suitcase with me, I went to the beach. I put in some stones to make the suitcase heavy. Then, I closed it, and hid it behind some plants on the beach. 160

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162 I was desperately waiting all day in my room for night to come. Once it was dark, I went to the spot where the suitcase was hidden and put it in my boat. I sailed for some time and saw some fishermen waving at me from their boats. After they were gone, I threw the suitcase into the deep waters. As the suitcase drowned, I experienced a feeling of calm. The sea and its waves lulled me to sleep. All night I slept in my little skiff. I was awakened by the sound of the waves beating against my boat in the morning. The sun was high and a strong wind was blowing. I wondered where I was, and realised that while I was asleep, my boat was carried far away from the Orkney Islands. I tried to look for land, but I could not see it. I guessed I was somewhere in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Sitting in my boat, the day passed very slowly, and the sea became rather choppy in the late afternoon. Lost at sea, I now began to feel hungry and thirsty with the heat of the sun on my head. I doubted if I would be able to survive in such rough conditions. It was about evening when I spotted some land to the south. It wasn t possible to steer my boat with one sail, so I removed my shirt and made a sail from it to head south. As I neared the shore, I saw that there was a small town with a harbour. I came upon the shore and thanked my stars. Tying my boat to the shore, I found myself surrounded by some people from the town. I was shocked to see such a reception, but no one came forward to help me. As people started whispering to each other, I went ahead and asked the crowd where I was. One of them replied, Don t worry. You will come to know. We don t care whether you like it here or not. I wondered at the reaction of the people. I couldn t understand why they were so rude to me. Or were they rude to every stranger? Noticing the frowns on their faces, I asked again, Dear people, may I please know the cause of such rudeness? We are all English brothers.why are all of you frowning? Someone from the crowd came forward, and answered, English brothers? No, we are Irish people, and don t know of the English ways. But, in Ireland, villains are treated with great hostility. It was shocked to hear that I was in Ireland. Confused, I said, But, I am no villain. I was just lost at sea in this boat. Someone from the crowd grumbled, We don t know anything about this. You will have to go and see the magistrate, Mr. Kirwin. There was a murder last night, and he might want to question you. You could be the culprit. I was baffled by all this, but I had 162

163 no qualms in going to the town magistrate to prove that I wasn t guilty of any murder. Tired and starved, I put on my shirt, and asked the people to direct me to the court house. I was unaware of the news that was waiting to snatch the ground from below my feet. The magistrate, Mr. Kirwin, was an old man, who was questioning the crowd about the murder that took place last night. 163

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167 He asked a fisherman about what happened, and the fisherman replied, Last night, I was out at sea with my son, and as the wind blew rather strong, I decided to get back to the shore. As we both were walking towards our house, I tumbled upon something. Raising our lantern at the suspicious object, we found it was a body. We were horrified to see the dead body of a such goodlooking, young gentlemen, about twenty-five years old. As his body seemed warm, we thought he was still alive, and tried everything to bring him back to life, but it was useless. We couldn t find out how he came to be there. His clothes were dry, so he couldn t have drowned in the sea. What was the cause of his death then? We looked closely at his body for some clues, and I discovered some finger-marks on his neck. He was strangled to death. So, it is a murder, sir, and no natural death. Finger-marks on his neck! I felt that I was about to face some terrible news. This detail drew my attention to the murder of this mysterious man. The memory of the death of my brother William came rushing back to me. He also had some finger-marks on his neck. I suspected that if this man was also murdered in the same manner, then perhaps he was murdered by the monster. I stood there, my body frozen and numb. My legs began to quiver and I held on to a table for support. Looking at my odd behaviour, the magistrate paused for a moment, and then went ahead to ask a woman what she had to say about the incident. The woman answered, Sir, I came to know about the man s murder from someone. But last night, as I live near the beach, I saw a huge figure, leaving the shore in his boat from the same spot where the man s body was discovered. I didn t see him as it was quite dark, but I think he must have killed this man. 167

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169 The magistrate turned towards me, and said, You, young man will have to come with me. You too had a boat with you, and our suspicion would certainly go towards you. I want you to come with me to identify the body of this young man, so that we can find out if you are guilty of this killing. As we walked towards the body, I guessed that the magistrate wanted to see my reaction after looking at the body. Upset as I was after finding out about the marks, I quietly went on to see the body. The magistrate took me to a room where there was nothing but a coffin placed right at the centre. I slowly went towards the dead body, and when I saw it, my world came crashing down. My eyes couldn t believe what they saw, as the body was not of some stranger. It was my own friend, Henry Clerval! Overwhelmed, I wasn t able to say a word. My friend lay in front of me, lifeless, in the coffin. It was getting difficult for me to even breathe. Unable to control myself, I starting weeping with me head on his chest, crying, I am responsible for your death, Henry. Forgive me! No, I don t even deserve God s mercy. You are the third one to die because of what I did. That demon, I won t leave him. I will avenge your death Henry! Saying this, without any strength in my body, I fell unconscious to the floor. 169

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174 Chapter Eighteen The Imprisonment I don t remember clearly, how the next two months passed. I was accused of Henry s murder, and was sent to prison. In a state of delirium, with high fever bringing me to the verge of death, I raved and ranted about the deaths of my loved ones. I used to cry and shriek, and curse myself for the murders of my brother, Justine and Henry. The people in the prison were convinced of my insanity due to my continous ranting. I didn t talk about anything else, but the fiend, the monster, and begged people to kill him. I often dreamt of the gigantic monster grabbing me by the neck and strangling me to death. I would wake up scared and horrified. 174

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176 After some days, I started recovering and even my sanity was coming back. I found myself in the small, dirty room of a prison with an old woman sleeping on a chair beside me. I woke her up and asked her who she was. She said that she was there to take care of me, but was unable to understand why a murderer would want to get well, when he is still serving his punishment inside the prison. I couldn t blame that woman for being rude to me. I was, after all, responsible for the murders. For her, I was just a murderer, and I deserved to be hanged. Later, I found out that during my illness, the magistrate had shown tremendous kindness to me. He had arranged for a doctor to treat me and also a nurse to look after me. He would often visit me himself, to see how I was faring. Feeling better one morning, I tried getting up, and finally sat up in the chair beside my bed. At that moment, I saw the magistrate, Mr. Kirwin, enter my cell. His face shone with kindness, and he asked me, Are you feeling better now? I hope you are comfortable here. If you need anything else, just tell me. I am thankful to you, sir, for showing so much consideration. But, now I only wish to die; only death will bring me comfort. The magistrate interrupted me, No, don t be so pessimistic. I have come to know who you are and about your family in Geneva from the papers that were found in your pocket. 176

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178 My family? I said in a fearful tone. What about my family? What happened to them? Are they well? Did that monster kill someone? The magistrate calmed me down, Don t panic, nothing has happened. Your family is fine. And, someone wants to see you. Dreading that it would be the monster come to trouble me, I cried, I don t want to see him or listen to his stories. Don t bring him here, please! Standing up from the chair, he said, I think you really are the culprit! Or you would have been happy to find your father here. He s here, my father is here? I asked, and my heart leapt with joy. The magistrate asked the guards to get my father to my cell to see me. I was overjoyed to see him there, and after months of suffering, I actually felt some lightness in my being. I asked my father if everyone else was well at home and he assured me that everything was fine. Knowing that no one was harmed at home relieved me and made me happy. My father didn t stay for long as his health didn t permit him to. My father and the magistrate took the following weeks to collect evidence from the Orkney Islands where I was staying. The peasants confirmed that they had seen me on the night Henry was murdered, so all the charges against me were dropped, and I was out of the prison. Now, I had to go back home to ensure that my family was safe, and to finish the demon who had destroyed my happiness. I was in constant fear that the monster would kill someone from my family for his revenge. I told my father I wanted to go home, but he didn t think that I was well enough to undertake the journey. I had bouts of fever, and rambled and raved in a strange manner about the deaths of my dear ones. My father was puzzled as I blamed myself for their deaths and was unhappy to see me in so pathetic a state. I must have seemed like a lunatic to him, murmuring things to myself. He asked me to calm down, and stop feeling guilty for a crime I had not committed. 178

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181 During my illness, I was not much more than a skeletal frame, with bones jutting out, and hardly any strength in the body. Even then I continually requested my father to take me home, and after much persuasion he agreed. There were times when I thought of telling my father all my dark secret, but then I controlled the urge, knowing he would be heart-broken. No, I would have to keep the sinful secret to myself. 181

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184 Chapter Nineteen The Wedding The day to depart from Ireland finally came, and as I was preparing to leave, a letter was delivered. My hands shook as I opened it, dreading the worst, but I was delighted to see that the letter was written by Elizabeth asking me to take care of myself. She assured me of her love and support in all times. She wanted to know whether I wished to marry her as we had promised my mother years ago, or to drop the idea altogether. Glad to see her letter, I was anxious to tell her that I really adored her and wanted her to be my life-partner. She was a beautiful person and I wanted her to be a part of my life forever and ever. But then, a terrifying thought sombered me. I remembered the monster s words. He had promised to see me on my wedding night. I folded the letter and sat contemplating, My wedding night will be the day when the demon will come back for his revenge. I am not scared of his threats. If he comes, a bitter struggle is sure to ensue, and I will fight until I die. Either I will be dead or the monster will be. In either case, I will be unburdened. I also planned to break the secret to Elizabeth after our wedding day. She had the right to know everything about me, good and bad. I told my father that I was ready for the marriage, and he was very happy to know of my plans to settle down. When we reached Geneva, my father told Elizabeth about my decision and she was overjoyed at the good news. The wedding arrangements began in great earnest, but Elizabeth was worried about my ill-health, and dismal appearance. She would ask me all the time about what disturbed me so much. Unable to explain my grief, I just told her, Yes Elizabeth, you are right. Something has been eating me up from inside. I promise that you will come to know about it soon. 184

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187 When the wedding was only a week away, I made all arrangement to protect me and my family. I carried with me a dagger and pistols at all times. The wedding day drew nearer, and as I was overwhelmed with joy, I thought that the monster would not come. I stopped worrying. The wedding day arrived, and the ceremony took place at my father s house, after which there was a huge party. Everyone in my family was very happy. Our honeymoon was to take place in a villa that Elizabeth had iheritted. It was situated on the shores of Lake Como in northern Italy. We started on our honeymoon, passing Lake Geneva, spending a night at an inn in Evians, and starting for Italy the next morning. 187

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189 We were both happy in each other s company, enjoying the beauty of the lake and the snowy Mont Blanc. But, in midst of all this happiness, I sensed a fear in Elizabeth s eyes as she looked at me. I guessed she was anxious about the secret that I was to reveal to her. I assured her that nothing would go wrong. But, the setting sun in the background brought back my fears, Will the monster actually come here on my wedding night? I shuddered at this thought. 189

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192 Chapter Twenty The Fourth Victim! Evening was gone and night engulfed us in its darkness. The night had an eerie feel to it, with rain and wind beating on our windows. My fears had returned, and I constantly checked the one pistol that I had with me to protect us. Observing my strange behaviour, Elizabeth questioned, Victor, please tell me, what makes you so afraid and nervous? Oh! It s just this night. Don t worry, I am fine. The dreadful night will soon pass to reveal a beautiful morning, I said. I didn t want sweet Elizabeth to see the monster. So, I told her, Elizabeth dear, you must be exhausted by now. Why don t you go and rest in our bedroom. After she was gone, I searched the inn for the monster to see if he was hiding somewhere, but there was no sign of his presence. Now, I was confident that the monster had failed to make it on my wedding night. As I drew a sigh of relief, I heard a shriek and it came from my bedroom, where Elizabeth was resting. Elizabeth! I rushed into the room to find a most heartwrenching sight. Poor Elizabeth lay on the bed without a sign of life in her. Her pale face was covered with ruffled hair, with head hanging from the bed, and her eyes spoke of the terror she had witnessed. My world turned upside down, and I fainted. 192

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194 When I was conscious again, I found myself on a sofa with people at the inn standing around me. Standing up, I rushed to the bedroom to find the lifeless body of Elizabeth, with a cloth spread over her face and neck. I lifted her in my arms, removing the cloth from her face and neck. My beautiful love was dead, and as I looked at her closely, I found the wretched finger-marks on her neck. My gaze shifted from her to the window outside, and I sighted the monster himself, standing outside, looking at me with a sinister smile on his horrid face. He came to mock me, tease me, as he evilly pointed to the spiritless body of Elizabeth. I am here, master. I have avenged my friend, the one you so heartlessly denied me. I have erased all happiness from your life. Now, you and I are no different, he said in his rough voice. Mad with rage at hearing his words, I took out the pistol and ran towards the window, firing many shots. But I couldn t hurt him. He ran with the speed of an arrow and vanished into the darkness. People came running into the room after hearing the firing and search for the murderer began. People went to the lake with boats and even searched the forest, but to no avail. The monster was nowhere to be found. Helpless and tired, I came back to the inn, and looked at Elizabeth s body, asking her forgiveness. Now, I had to go back home, lest the monster kill the rest of my family. 194

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199 Chapter Twenty One The Search for the Monster When I reached home, I found my father and my brother still alive, and was somewhat relieved. I informed my father of Elizabeth s murder. He broke down, unable to bear the dreadful sorrow. His ill-health couldn t support him for too long, and only a few weeks after Elizabeth s death, he died too. I was depressed after Elizabeth death and now my father s demise pushed me towards insanity. I was locked up in an asylum for some months to be cured. After my treatment, I was driven by an intense desire for revenge. I had to destroy the murderous fiend. I went to the police for help, and even explained everything that had happened to a judge. The judge seemed to understand me, but told me that the task to find and destroy someone so superhuman would be impossible, and asked me to leave the matter. But, I was unstoppable. I decided to chase the monster alone and extract my much-awaited revenge. I had no qualms dedicating my life to this search for the devil, and therefore I collected everything that I would need during my search. But, my dilemma was where to go, as the demon could be just about anywhere. Where would I look for him, the earth being so big? I planned to leave Geneva, and started wandering, looking for the evil creature. I came across the cemetery one night, and went inside to find the graves of William, Elizabeth and my father. I touched their graves, and declared to the heavens that I would find their murderer, and avenge their ghastly deaths. As I said this, the silence of the night was broken by a loud, evil laugh, as it echoed and rang through the valley. Then followed a hoarse, familiar voice, Ah revenge! I lived up to my promise. Now, your life is not worth living, as you have lost everyone who loved you. You made my life miserable, and I made yours. Ha! Ha! Ha! As he uttered this, I ran to the place from where the voice came, and found the monster hurrying away. 199

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202 My mission had begun. With some information about the monster, I went looking for him to Europe, Africa and even Russia. Sometimes people scared out of their wits would tell me where he was, and sometimes he himself informed me of his location. he made me suffer by chasing him. It was like a hide-and-seek game that we were playing. He left clues for me on the trunks of trees, or engraved into the rocks. It was as if he mocked at my failure to catch him. I was all the more passionate to get my revenge. Going to north Russia, I discovered his final clue: Prepare yourself for a tough journey ahead. Your misery will be the source of my happiness. Immediately, I bought a sledge and a dog team to take me through the snowy parts of Russia. In between the journey, I came across a small village, where people told me of the monster that attacked them last night, and took away their food, a sledge and a dog team. I asked the villagers about the way he took, but they warned me of the dangers ahead, of the frozen sea, with no land at all, where I could be frozen to death. I didn t pay attention to their warnings and continued my pursuit. 202

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204 The months after this were spent in the chase through the harsh, cold snow. I endured chill, hunger, and thirst, and risked my life for this revenge. I made it to the top of the hill one morning, and spotted something dark on the frozen sea below. I looked through my telescope to finally see the face of victory. There was the loathsome figure of the demon himself. I went after him and chased him for the next two days, but failed to reach him. All my hopes died, when the ice began to break beneath me. It was as if there was an earthquake, creating rifts and cracks in the frozen sea. The ice floated on the sea, and increased the distance between me and the monster as he floated away, and I remained on that block of ice. I had given up all hope of survival, and thought that I would have to end my search here, and prepare for death. All the dogs died, except one, and even I was on the brink of death without food and water for several days. But then, you came. I saw your ship and planned to approach you. I broke my sledge to make oars and reached your ship. I didn t want to go to south, and it was my luck that you were heading north. And, that is the reason I came aboard, and let you rescue me, as I wouldn t let the monster go unpunished. You and your sailors have saved my life, but now that I am getting well, I plan to go on with my journey. 204

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208 Here I end my long story, Robert. I hope that I live to kill that monster. But lest I should die, promise me that you will avenge me. If you find the devil, just destroy him! 208

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211 Chapter Twenty Two The Last Victim After hearing Victor s painful story, Robert was speechless. He respected and empathized with Victor, for what he had suffered. But, he was still inquisitive and asked Victor, I am curious to know how you created the vile creature? Shocked to hear Robert s question, Victor exclaimed, Why would you want to know that, Robert? Do you want to produce something so wicked for the world? I have made that mistake and I request you not to ask me how I created this vile monster. Let the secret be buried within me. A month had gone by, yet the ship was stuck in the ice. Meanwhile, Victor s condition grew worse day-by-day. Finally one day, the crew came on the deck after a thunderous noise was heard. The ship moved a little, as the ice beneath it split and cracked. It continued for two more days, and at last the anchor was lifted and the ship was freely moving on the water. The crew was overjoyed to set sail again. Robert informed Victor, The path is clear and now we are going back. Going? We can t go. You have got to find that monster first, exclaimed Victor. Robert explained, I can understand how you feel, but I can t risk the lives of my men anymore for you or me. We have to go back. You can go back then, but I will stay here and find the monster, said Victor, and as he tried getting up, he collapsed on the bed. The ship s doctor was called to check on Victor as he wasn t able to breathe properly. After the examination, the doctor said, Captain, there is some sad news. Victor is too weak to survive and he is just with us for a few more hours. With a heavy heart, Robert sat beside the gravely ill man, and stared at his emaciated body. After some time, Victor opened his eyes and called Robert, I am grateful for your help, my friend. Now, I know it is my time to go. And let me tell you that now I don t want my revenge. I have come to realise the mistake I made by abandoning my creature. I should have treated him with affection, but the past can t be undone. I just want you to carry out my wish, so that he won t terrorise mankind any further. These were Victor s last words, and finally, he found his peace in death. 211

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213 After his death, Robert was standing on the deck thinking about him, when he heard a rough voice. He went downstairs in the cabin where Victor lay in his coffin, and saw a huge, ugly figure crying over Victor s body. He seemed devastated at Victor s death, and as he saw Robert entering the cabin, he started to run. But the captain asked him to stay. Pointing towards Victor the monster cried, I have tortured him enough and I want him to forgive me for my sins. The captain was filled with awe and curiosity after hearing the creature, and replied, It is too late now to regret what you have done. If you could have ceased your wickedness, Victor would have been alive. You are responsible for all this. 213

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216 I know, it s all my doing, and I detested what I did. I thought only about myself, but I was forced to be like this. I loved life when I came to life, but the world around changed me. Everyone hated me for my ugliness and no one accepted me for what I was. I was good inside, but no one looked inside and shunned me because I looked like a monster. Even my own creator deserted me. I pitied Victor too, but I had no other option. I was unhappy about his marriage. He ignored my misery, so I had to teach him a lesson. I had to lash out at him and the world, the monster explained. Robert could feel the persuasive power in the monster s speech, yet he shouted at him, You have killed Victor! So, why do want forgiveness? You are a vile creation, who only spreads hatred around himself. The monster replied, Even you hate me for my ugliness. I wanted to be loved, but people around me have turned me into a devil, chasing me, shooting me, and beating me just because I am ugly to look at. I am guilty of murdering innocent people and I hate myself for it. Captain, the next and the last murder is planned. But, don t be scared. I will not harm any human. I am killing myself. I am going to leave on my raft now. Away from the world, I will burn myself to death and will be reduced to ashes. It s time to leave. Farewell! 216

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218 Saying his last words, the monster jumped out of the ship s window. Robert rushed to the window and saw the creature hurrying away on the raft. Moments later, he was nowhere to be seen. 218

219 About the Author Mary Shelley Mary Shelley, also known as Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin, was born on 30th August, She is a well known writer, who has written many short stories, novels, dramas, essays, biographies and travel pieces. She has also helped her husband, Percy Bysshe Shelley, by editing his poems. She was the daughter of the philosopher and feminist, Mary Wollstonecraft and political philosopher, William Godwin. She was only 11 days old when her mother passed away but her father brought her up in a very liberal way, giving her informal but high quality education. She had a romantic affair with an already married P.B. Shelley, and married him after his first wife s death. She suffered ill-health towards the end of her life and died of brain tumour at the age of 53 on 1st February, Mary Shelley s main achievement was her Gothic masterpiece Frankenstein ; its original title was Frankenstein or A Modern Prometheus. This novel has seen many a theatrical and cinematic adaptations. Her works have a metaphorical quality with their thick plot and symbolic characters. 219

220 Characters Victor Frankenstein: He is the protagonist and also the reason behind the story and its numerous deaths. Victor is a budding scientist who is ambitiously keen on discovering new things. He loves his family and friends and is deeply affected when the monster targets them. He has a deep sense of justice and righteousness which leads to his self-hate. He is not a very heroic person but has a strong will and intelligence. Henry Clerval: Victor s best friend, Henry is a good human at heart, loves his friend and is loyal to him. All this evident from the way he takes care of Victor every time he is ill or disturbed. He is interested in poetry and enrols at the University of Ingolstadt to study poetry in various languages but is unfortunately killed by the monster. Robert Walton: The captain of the ship which rescues Victor in the sea. He is the recipient of the story and is the narrator initially and the last person who sees the monster before its suicide. He is courageous and likes exploring and is a very responsible person. Monster: The other important character is almost like a protagonist like Victor as he remains in the story till the very end. He has been given no name but is called monster, fiend, murderer etc; it seems a very intentional step. He has a rough life full of challenges and later he himself turns into a challenge for Victor and his family. He is a good speaker and can affect the audience and their decisions through his powerful and emotional speech. Even though superhuman by his strength, he has human emotions and requirements. Elizabeth Lavenza: She is an orphaned child of a friend of Victor s father. She is Italian by origin but is raised by the Frankenstein family as one of their own. She is a very responsible and cultured lady who steps into Victor s mother s shoes soon after her death. She loves and cares for Victor and wishes for a happy married life with him. She supports and loyally stays with Victor and his family throughout the sufferings until, she is also killed by the monster. Alphonse Frankenstein: Victor s father, he is an affectionate father, who supports Victor through all his wishes and desires and insanity. He lends an emotional support to the family even when he is himself hugely affected. He is killed indirectly by the monster. He dies because of heartbreak due to Elizabeth s murder. He is a rational and a very helpful person, whose humanity is proven by the way he treats Elizabeth, his friend s orphaned daughter. 220

221 Questions Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Who rescues Victor? Where is he found and how? How does the narration of the story begin? Does Victor start telling his story by himself? Victor introduces many people in this chapter. Who are they? How does Victor s mother die? What was her dying wish? Where does Victor go to study science? Whom does he meet there and is supported in his scientific quest? What was the subject of discovery that caught Victor s fancy? Why was he so excited about it? How does Victor collect the ingredients required for his discovery? What are these ingredients? What effect did this scientific experiment have on his health and why? Describe briefly the scene when the Monster came to life? What was Victor s reaction to his own creation? Why was he so disgusted? Victor becomes a crazy wanderer. Why does he leave his house and what all does he do? Answer briefly. Who arrives in Ingolstadt and what is his motive? How does he help Victor? What was written in the letter? Who had written it? Briefly mention the emotional reactions of Victor and Henry. Where does Victor meet the Monster? Briefly summarise the meet. What was the course of action that Victor thinks of taking, regarding the monster? Describe briefly the emotional scene when Victor reaches home. Does the Frankenstein family believe Justine Moritz to be the killer of William? Answer with reason. Do you think that the way Justine s case was handled by the court was justified? 221

222 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter18 Chapter19 Chapter 20 Why does Justine lie? Please describe the emotional scene between Elizabeth and Justine. Where does Victor wander away to? Whom does he meet there? Why does the Monster wish to meet and confront Victor? Why did the Monster hate Victor? What were the struggles he had to go through in his life? What kind of life do the De Lacey s lead? Through his sad story the Monster manages to convince Victor. Do you agree that the monster had learnt language very properly and was a good speaker? What demand does he make to Victor? Briefly describe with reasons. Does Victor agree to the demand? Why does he feel bound to agree? Victor started working on the second monster very late? Why was he delaying the project? Victor gets very protective towards his friend Henry. Why? One evening while giving a finishing touch to his work, Victor feels doubtful. What were his doubts? What threat did the Monster give to Victor? How did Victor reach Ireland? Why were the citizens rude to him? What horrible news did he receive on reaching Ireland? Why was he imprisoned? Briefly narrate the incidents. What was Victor s condition in the prison? Who took care of him? Alphonse Frankenstein came to his son s rescue once again. How did he save his son? What all precautionary measures did Victor Frankenstein take to save his family from the Monster? What were the post-wedding plans of the newly married couple? Describe the scene of Elizabeth s lifeless body lying in the room. Brief. What is the mark that the Monster leaves on the body of his victim? How does he kill? 222

223 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Elizabeth s death leads to another death. Who dies after Elizabeth and why? What all places does Victor go to find out the Monster? Does the Monster leave any clues behind him? Was he doing it intentionally? What was the final clue? What preparations does Victor make in the final stage of his hunting expedition? What was that question of Robert's that annoyed Victor? What were his last words to Robert? Captain Robert Walton found the Monster crying over Victor's coffin. What conversation did they have? Who was the last one to die according to the Monster? Also comment on the end of the story. 223

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