Important Moments from Chapter 4 by Eli Moore

1. "His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion, and straight black lips" (Shelley 45).

elimoore27 — 2024-12-03 15:33:17 UTC

This is the first description we get of the monster. It shows how his appearance greatly differs from what Frankenstein expected, causing him to perceive his creation as a monster and a demon.

5. "This was the commencement of a nervous fever, which confined me for several months. During all that time Henry was my only nurse" (Shelley 49).

elimoore27 — 2024-12-03 15:37:08 UTC

This helps move along the plot, as it shows why Frankenstein must stay confined and away from his family for so long. It also illustrates Clerval's further role in the text, as he will attend to Frankenstein and be his friend when he is in need. This also gives further insight into Clerval's character, as a kind, caring friend and person.

4. "I have been so deeply engaged in one occupation that, I have not allowed myself sufficient rest, as you see; but I hope, I sincerly hope that these employments are now at an end, and I am now free" (Shelly 48).

johnstaigerwald27 — 2024-12-03 15:38:12 UTC

This gives insight into Frankenstein's character. He is so devoted to his work with creating life that he has neglected himself things necessary to live, driving himself insane.

2. "He held up the curtain of the bed; and his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. He might have spoken, but I did not hear; one hand was stretched out, seemingly to detain me, but I escaped" (Shelley 46).

elimoore27 — 2024-12-03 15:41:57 UTC

Frankenstein believes that his creation is a monster, and he thinks that the monster wants to kill him. His preconceptions of the monsters appearance cause him to think the worse of the monster, when it might have just been wanting to see its creator.

3. "Nothing could equal my delight on seeing Clerval; his presence brought back to my thoughts my father, Elizabeth, and all those scenes of home so dear to my recollection. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy." (Shelley 48)

ethankim27 — 2024-12-03 15:50:21 UTC

This quote demonstrates the effect that Clerval's entrance had on Frankenstein's attitude and provides a basis for how Clerval's character interacts with and supports Frankenstein.

6. "I perceived the fallen leaves had disappeared, and that the young buds were shooting forth from the trees that shaded my window. It was a divine spring; and the season contribute greatly to my convalescence. I felt also the sentiments of joy and affection revive in my bosom; my gloom disappeared, and in a short time I became as cheerful as before I was attacked by the fatal passion" (Shelley 50).

elimoore27 — 2024-12-03 15:53:40 UTC

This shows Shelley's romantic tendencies as an author, as she uses nature as a way for Frankenstein to recover from his anxiety attacks. It also gives deeper insight to Frankenstein's characters, as several times we see him give romantic descriptions of nature, especially when something terrible has happened.