# Chapter XII explained — Frankenstein

> Chapter companion for Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley.

## What happens

The Creature continues observing the De Lacey family, learning their language and customs. He discovers their poverty and secretly helps them by gathering wood. He becomes deeply attached to them, but also becomes aware of his own deformity when he sees his reflection. He resolves to master their language before revealing himself.

## Themes in this chapter

### Isolation and Loneliness

The Creature's solitude is contrasted with the family's togetherness, deepening his sense of wretchedness.

### Nature vs. Nurture

The Creature's innate desire for connection and his learning of language and kindness suggest the potential for goodness, despite his appearance.

### Monstrosity and Otherness

The Creature's realization of his deformity and his fear of rejection highlight his status as an outsider.

## Character check-ins

### The Creature

Observes the De Lacey family, learns language, helps them secretly, and becomes aware of his own monstrous appearance.

### Felix De Lacey

The young man of the cottage, often sad but cheerful with his father, works outside and reads to the family.

### Agatha De Lacey

The young woman who manages the household, often weeps but is comforted by her father's words.

### Old De Lacey

The blind father, kind and encouraging, who talks cheerfully to his children.

## Key lines

> I learned and applied the words, 'fire,' 'milk,' 'bread,' and 'wood.'

I learned the names for basic items like fire, milk, bread, and wood.

_The Creature begins to acquire language by associating sounds with objects._

> I was filled with the bitterest sensations of despondence and mortification.

I felt deep despair and shame.

_The Creature's reaction to seeing his own reflection and recognizing his deformity._

> I looked upon them as superior beings, who would be the arbiters of my future destiny.

I saw them as higher beings who would decide my fate.

_The Creature idealizes the De Lacey family and hopes they will accept him._

## Links

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