# Chapter I explained — Frankenstein

> Chapter companion for Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley.

## What happens

Victor Frankenstein recounts his family background, describing his father's honorable character and his marriage to Caroline Beaufort after her father's death. He also tells of the adoption of Elizabeth Lavenza, a beautiful orphan who becomes his cherished companion.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Friendship

The chapter emphasizes the deep bonds within the Frankenstein family, including Alphonse's friendship with Beaufort and the loving adoption of Elizabeth.

### Ambition and Pride

Beaufort's pride leads him to hide in poverty rather than seek help, illustrating the destructive potential of pride.

## Character check-ins

### Victor Frankenstein

Narrator of the chapter, reflecting on his early family life and the arrival of Elizabeth.

### Alphonse Frankenstein

Victor's father, depicted as a respected public figure who marries Caroline Beaufort after rescuing her from poverty.

### Caroline Beaufort

Victor's mother, who endures hardship after her father's death and is later married to Alphonse.

### Elizabeth Lavenza

Adopted by the Frankenstein family as a child; described as a fair, celestial being and Victor's beloved companion.

## Key lines

> My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances.

Victor's father felt genuine friendship for Beaufort and was saddened by his friend's withdrawal into poverty.

_Highlights the theme of friendship and Alphonse's character._

> I have a pretty present for my Victor—tomorrow he shall have it.

Caroline tells Victor she has a gift for him, referring to Elizabeth's arrival.

_Foreshadows Victor's possessive view of Elizabeth as his own._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/frankenstein_se/chapters/chapter-i
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/frankenstein_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/frankenstein_se/chapters