Henry Clerval
English Lit: AQA GCSE Frankenstein, topic 6.1.6
Henry Clerval - Key Quotations
Henry Clerval is Victor’s childhood friend, who proves to be very loyal to Victor throughout the novel. Clerval is eventually murdered by the Monster, and Victor is accused of the crime.
Contrast to Victor
- 'He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance.' (Chapter 2).
- In childhood, Clerval's interests clearly differ to Victor's.
- He is less interested in science, showing more of an affinity for literature and more human endeavours.
- This is one of the ways in which Shelley sets up a contrast between the two friends.
Family
- 'His father was a narrow-minded trader, and saw idleness and ruin in the aspirations and ambition of his son.' (Chapter 3).
- Victor is critical of Clerval's father's lack of support of his education.
- This could be read as being ironic, as Victor never seems to truly appreciate the support and encouragement of his own family.
Victor's response to Clerval's death
- 'I entered the room where the corpse lay, and was led up to the coffin. How can I describe my sensations on beholding it? I feel yet parched with horror, nor can I reflect on that terrible moment without shuddering and agony [...] I gasped for breath; and, throwing myself on the body, I exclaimed, "Have my murderous machinations deprived you also, my dearest Henry, of life?"' (Volume Three: Chapter 4).
- The vision of Clerval's corpse seems to have a physical impact on Victor.
- Shelley shows how the vision impacts Victor emotionally.
- He becomes aware of his own involvement in the deaths of his friends and family.
Test yourself on Henry Clerval
Who does the following quotation refer to?
'He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance.' (Chapter 2).Which chapter is the following quotation found?
'He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance.'