Elizabeth Lavenza
English Lit: AQA GCSE Frankenstein, topic 2.3.2
Summary of Elizabeth Lavenza's Character
Elizabeth Lavenza is an orphan who was adopted by Victor’s parents in order to provide her with a better life. She and Victor develop a romantic relationship but she is killed on their wedding night by the Monster.
The 'passive woman'
- Elizabeth can be read as an example of a typical nineteenth-century passive woman, waiting for Victor and supporting him endlessly.
- This is mirrored in the description of her body when she dies, in which she seems entirely passive and weak.
Strength
- It is also important to remember the ways in which Elizabeth demonstrates strength.
- She creates solid bonds with people and is willing to stand up for what she believes in.
- E.g. During Justine’s trial, Elizabeth speaks up publically about her belief in Justine’s innocence.
- This contrasts to Victor’s unwillingness to speak during the trial, despite his repeated claims that he wishes to.
Elizabeth Lavenza - Key Quotations
Elizabeth Lavenza is an orphan who was adopted by Victor’s parents to provide her with a better life. She and Victor develop a romantic relationship but she is killed on their wedding night by the Monster.
Elizabeth as angelic
- 'The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home.' (Chapter 2).
- Shelley's language presents Elizabeth as perfect and heavenly.
- She seems to radiate light into the Frankenstein household, indicating the warmth and hope that she brings.
- This could link to the nineteenth-century concept of the Angel in the House, a role which Elizabeth will go on to fulfil in the Frankenstein household.
Elizabeth's death
- 'She was there, lifeless and inanimate, thrown across the bed, her head hanging down, and her pale and distorted features half covered by her hair. Everywhere I turn I see the same figure - her bloodless arms and relaxed form flung by the murderer on its bridal bier.' (Volume Three: Chapter 6).
- Shelley presents Elizabeth's corpse as passive and helpless.
- There is irony in the fact that she is left on her "bridal bier". This is associated with the idea of a new beginning, when in fact it is the resting place of a corpse.
Test yourself on Elizabeth Lavenza
When is Elizabeth shown to be stronger than Victor?
When is Elizabeth depicted as especially weak and passive?
How does Shelley present Elizabeth's corpse?