In Chapter 7 of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, William Frankenstein was tragically killed. He was Victor Frankenstein's youngest brother.
Upon his return to the university, Victor receives a devastating letter from his father. This letter delivers the shocking news that William has been murdered. This event serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative, deeply affecting Victor and setting in motion further tragic developments.
The Victim and the Discovery
William Frankenstein's death is a critical turning point, not only for Victor personally but also for the unfolding horror of the story. The news reaches Victor through a letter, highlighting the sudden and distant nature of the tragedy as he is away from home.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Victim | William Frankenstein |
| Relationship | Victor Frankenstein's youngest brother |
| Manner of Death | Murdered |
| Discovery | Victor learns via a letter from his father |
| Location | Near Geneva, Switzerland (off-screen) |
Impact on the Narrative
William's murder has profound consequences, acting as a catalyst for much of the subsequent plot. This event marks the true beginning of Victor's personal torment and the escalating conflict with his creation. The death of an innocent child also underscores the destructive potential of Victor's scientific ambitions gone awry, directly linking the creature's actions to human suffering.
