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Frankenstein Chapter 23: Summary, Analysis, and Study Guide

Chapter 23 serves as the tragic emotional climax of Mary Shelley's masterpiece. Following the ominous warning that the creature would be with him on his wedding night, Victor Frankenstein faces the devastating consequences of his past choices.

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Chapter 23 Summary: The Wedding Night

The chapter begins with Victor and Elizabeth arriving at their honeymoon destination, Villa Lavenza. Victor is consumed by anxiety, carrying weapons and patrolling the grounds in anticipation of an attack. However, he mistakenly believes he is the creature's only target. While Victor searches the hallways, he hears a scream and finds Elizabeth murdered in their bridal suite. The creature appears at the window, mocking Victor before escaping into the lake. Victor returns to Geneva, where the news of Elizabeth's death causes his father, Alphonse, to die of a broken heart soon after.

Key Themes and Character Analysis

A primary theme in this chapter is the fatal consequence of Victor’s ego. He interpreted the creature’s threat—'I shall be with you on your wedding night'—as a personal challenge to his own life, failing to realize the creature intended to take what Victor loved most. This chapter also highlights the theme of isolation; by the end, Victor is stripped of his family and social ties, mirroring the creature's own lonely existence. The transition of Victor from a man of science to a man driven solely by vengeance is completed here.

Literary Devices: Foreshadowing and Irony

Shelley uses heavy foreshadowing throughout the preceding chapters to build tension for this moment. The irony lies in Victor's frantic preparations; his attempts to protect himself actually left Elizabeth vulnerable. The setting of the stormy night and the picturesque villa creates a Gothic atmosphere, contrasting the beauty of the landscape with the horror of the murder. Pay attention to how the shift in tone prepares the reader for the final pursuit in the Arctic.

Study Tips for Class and Exams

When preparing for a quiz or essay on Chapter 23, focus on the psychological state of Victor. Note his transition from fear to a singular, obsessive desire for revenge. For essay prompts, consider comparing Elizabeth’s death to the destruction of the female creature in earlier chapters. If you are comparing this to other study resources like SparkNotes or LitCharts, focus on how Shelley uses Victor's internal monologue to reveal his lack of self-awareness.

Why did the monster kill Elizabeth instead of Victor?

The monster wanted Victor to feel the same total isolation and grief that he felt. By killing Elizabeth, he ensured Victor had no companions left, just as Victor had destroyed the monster's potential companion.

How does Victor's father die?

Alphonse Frankenstein dies of grief and a broken spirit shortly after learning about Elizabeth's murder, leaving Victor entirely alone in the world.

What is the significance of the creature's grin at the window?

The grin symbolizes the creature's triumph over Victor. It confirms that the murder was a calculated act of psychological warfare rather than a random act of violence.

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