Frankenstein · Chapter
Chapter III explained
Victor Frankenstein departs for the University of Ingolstadt after the death of his mother, Caroline Beaufort, from scarlet fever.
What happens
Victor Frankenstein departs for the University of Ingolstadt after the death of his mother, Caroline Beaufort, from scarlet fever. He leaves behind his family and his friend Henry Clerval, who is unable to accompany him due to his father's objections. Upon arriving, Victor meets Professor Krempe, who dismisses his previous studies of alchemists, and later Professor Waldman, who encourages his pursuit of modern science, setting Victor on a path that will determine his future.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Pride
Victor's desire for knowledge and his departure from home reflect his ambition, while Clerval's father sees ambition as ruinous.
Family and Friendship
The close bonds between Victor, Elizabeth, Clerval, and his family are highlighted through farewells and shared grief.
Dangerous Knowledge
Victor's pursuit of science, encouraged by Waldman, foreshadows the perilous path of forbidden knowledge.
Characters to notice
- Victor Frankenstein
Departs for Ingolstadt after his mother's death; meets Professors Krempe and Waldman.
- Elizabeth Lavenza
Recovers from scarlet fever; consoles the family after Caroline's death; bids Victor farewell.
- Henry Clerval
Spends the last evening with Victor; prevented by his father from accompanying Victor to Ingolstadt.
- Caroline Beaufort
Dies of scarlet fever after nursing Elizabeth; on her deathbed she joins Victor and Elizabeth's hands.
- Alphonse Frankenstein
Blesses Victor at his departure; grieves the loss of his wife.
- M. Waldman
Professor at Ingolstadt; encourages Victor's scientific pursuits and offers guidance.
Key passages
“She died calmly; and her countenance expressed affection even in death.”
Caroline passed away peacefully, her face still showing love.
Describes the serene death of Victor's mother.
“I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections.”
I climbed into the carriage that would take me away, lost in sad thoughts.
Victor's sorrowful departure from home.
“Thus ended a day memorable to me: it decided my future destiny.”
That day was unforgettable; it shaped my entire future.
Victor reflects on the significance of meeting Waldman.