Frankenstein And Clerval Analysis

Henry Clerval and Justine Moritz are two characters found in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.

Their roles, as well as their appreciation, are both small. However, their effect on the plot and dynamic of Frankenstein was anything but insignificant. Both characters were used or deluded by Victor

Frankenstein, ultimately resulting in their demise, physically or mentally. Victor is to blame for nearly all that goes wrong in the novel, mainly because of his rejection of his creation.

Victor Frankenstein was not a very good person. From his childhood to the end of his life, he was very selfcentered and fearful of rejection. He never accepted the blame, even when the blame was due. His relationship with Henry was an interesting one, “as Frankenstein is depressed and obsessed, and Clerval seems more optimistic and clearminded.

While the two are both intelligent, their personalities differ and this may have been the key to their efficient friendship.” ¹ When Henry goes to follow in his friends’ scientific footsteps, “it can either be an expression of affection, wanting to flatter his friend and be like him, or it can be a sign of the hierarchy their relationship possesses.” ¹ Either way, the connection that Frankenstein and Clerval share is an interesting one, with Clerval’s optimism balancing out the moroseness of Frankenstein. Victor describes Henry as an only child, "the son of a merchant of

Geneva, an intimate friend of my father. He was a boy of singular talent and fancy" ². The two are united by "the closest friendship" ². “Ironically enough, Henry ends up dying by the monster which he ultimately helped Frankenstein hide.” ¹ This is a clear example of Frankenstein’s lack of responsibility. He uses his childhood friend, who was always the...

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...nster with all the tools necessary to function and act as a human being, except he gave him no humanity. He hardly looked at the monster, as did many others, and this affected him in ways which resulted in his volatile actions. He went from being benevolent to full of vengeance, all because of his deeprooted hatred for Victor Frankenstein. This is further evidence of Frankenstein’s narcissism, inability to take responsibility, and immaturity.

Both Henry Clerval and Justine Moritz were mistreated and the victims of Victor’s own personal issues. They faced untimely deaths after being nothing but respectable and good, because of their seemingly harmless relationship with Victor Frankenstein. Not only did his selfishness drag them down, his lack of responsibility and confidence did as well. While he provided them with friendship,

Victor screwed over Justine and Henry.