Chapter 3 — Frankenstein by Mary Shelley — Audiobook

Frankenstein — Chapter 3: The Journey Begins

Chapter 3 introduces one of the first significant shifts in Victor’s life. After the tragic death of his mother, Victor sets off to the University of Ingolstadt, where his thirst for knowledge grows ever more intense. In this chapter, we see the seeds of obsession planted, as Victor delves into the world of natural philosophy under the guidance of his new professors, including the harsh M. Krempe and the more supportive M. Waldman. These mentors help set him on the path that will ultimately lead to his fateful experiment.

Spoiler Warning: The following content contains a deeper analysis of the chapter and reveals plot details for first-time listeners.

In this chapter, we witness Victor Frankenstein grappling with a profound change in his life. The death of his mother is a defining moment for him, and it reinforces themes of mortality and loss that are central to the novel. As he leaves home and begins his studies, his enthusiasm for science becomes overwhelming.

Victor's encounter with his professors is crucial. M. Krempe's dismissal of Victor’s previous studies in alchemy and the works of ancient thinkers like Cornelius Agrippa stings him, but M. Waldman’s encouragement fans the flames of Victor's passion for knowledge. Here, Victor takes his first steps towards the darker side of scientific pursuit, foreshadowing the dangerous territory he will later venture into. His obsession with understanding the “secrets of heaven and earth” grows as he immerses himself in the study of life and death.

Chapter 3 lays the foundation for what is to come—Victor’s consuming drive to uncover the mysteries of nature and life itself, setting the stage for his future tragic decisions.

Key Quotes:

“I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation.”

“Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.”

“Chance—or rather the evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant steps from my father’s door—led me first to M. Krempe, professor of natural philosophy.”

Do you have any favourite quotes or moments from this chapter? I'd love to hear your thoughts and reflections in the comments below! Feel free to share your insights about Victor’s early experiences at the university or your thoughts on the themes of loss, ambition, and knowledge.

Look out for Chapter 4, where Victor's passion for science grows into something far more dangerous.

March 8, 2017September 23, 2024

Chapter 2 — Frankenstein by Mary Shelley — Audiobook

Frankenstein — Chapter 2

In Chapter 2, Victor reflects on his childhood and the early influences that shaped his character. He describes his close friendship with Henry Clerval and the contrasting interests that defined their personalities. The chapter also introduces the first sparks of Victor’s obsession with uncovering the secrets of nature and the human condition.

Spoiler Warning:
The following analysis reveals important plot details for first-time listeners.

In this chapter, Victor delves deeper into his youth and the formation of his philosophical worldview. We learn more about Elizabeth’s role in Victor’s life, her calm disposition, and how her love of poetry and the beauty of nature contrasted sharply with Victor’s growing scientific curiosity.

Victor’s early fascination with the natural world begins to develop. While Elizabeth finds joy in the "books in running brooks, sermons in stones," Victor's mind turns toward "the secrets of heaven and earth," hinting at his growing desire to unlock the mysteries of existence. His burgeoning interest in the metaphysical and natural philosophy sets the foundation for his future experiments.

We are also introduced to Henry Clerval, Victor’s closest childhood friend, who is described as full of "enterprise, hardship, and even danger for its own sake." Clerval’s focus on the moral relations of things contrasts with Victor’s more scientific and ambitious pursuits. Their friendship is built on this complementary dynamic, yet as we will see in later chapters, it is also one of the tragic relationships in Victor’s life.

Key Quotes:

"Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember."

"The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine."

"While my companion contemplated with a serious and satisfied spirit the magnificent appearances of things, I delighted in investigating their causes."

What did you find most striking in Victor’s reflections on his early life? Do you have a favourite quote or moment from this chapter? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s discuss how the different influences in Victor’s youth set the stage for his later tragic decisions.

Don’t miss Chapter 3, where Victor begins his formal education and faces life-changing events that will forever alter his course.

March 4, 2017September 23, 2024

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley – Chapter 1 – Audiobook

Frankenstein — Chapter 1

The commencement of Victor Frankenstein's narrative

In Chapter 1, Victor Frankenstein introduces us to his background and early life. We learn about his family, their status in Geneva, and the deep connections between Victor and those closest to him. The chapter begins the unravelling of Victor’s privileged yet solemn youth, particularly focusing on his parents’ love for him and their adoption of Elizabeth Lavenza, who becomes Victor's treasured companion.

Spoiler Warning:
The following analysis reveals important plot details for first-time listeners.

Chapter 1 of Frankenstein sets the stage for understanding Victor Frankenstein’s upbringing and the people who shaped his life. It introduces themes of familial duty, love, and the weight of parental expectations.

Victor describes his father, a man deeply involved in public service, and recounts the story of how his mother came to be part of the family. His father’s friend, Beaufort, after falling into poverty, hides away in shame, only to be found in destitution by Victor’s father. This act of charity and rescue defines Victor’s perception of duty and compassion, but it also hints at the pride and ambition that will later shape his life.

Elizabeth, an orphan girl of noble descent, enters Victor’s life as an almost otherworldly figure. Her beauty and gentleness captivate him, and from a young age, he sees her as his destined companion. This early attachment to Elizabeth, described in almost possessive terms, foreshadows the tragedy that will unfold later.

Key Quotes:

"I am by birth a Genevese, and my family is one of the most distinguished of that republic."

"I have a pretty present for my Victor—tomorrow he shall have it."

"No word, no expression could body forth the kind of relation in which she stood to me—my more than sister, since till death she was to be mine only."

Do you have any favourite quotes or moments from this chapter? I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections in the comments below! Feel free to share any insights on Victor’s family dynamics or the relationship with Elizabeth, as these early moments lay the foundation for the tragedy to come.

Be sure to join me for Chapter 2, where we continue our journey through Victor’s early life and the influences that shaped his fate.

March 2, 2017September 23, 2024

Prologue – Frankenstein by Mary Shelley – Audiobook

Prologue — The Four Letters

The novel begins with the framing narrative of Robert Walton via four letters sent to his sister

Robert Walton’s letters to his sister, Margaret Saville, set the framework for the novel. Walton, an ambitious explorer, recounts his expedition to the North Pole, his desire for discovery, and his encounter with a mysterious man, Victor Frankenstein. Through these letters, we gain insight into Walton's character, his ambitions, and his growing admiration for Frankenstein, while being introduced to the tragic tale Frankenstein is about to tell.

Spoiler Warning: The following content contains a deeper analysis of the letters and reveals plot details for first-time listeners.

Mary Shelley's novel begins in epistolary form, grounding the reader in the reality of Walton’s Arctic expedition. Walton’s letters serve as the first point of contact between the reader and the themes of ambition, isolation, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Letter 1 introduces Walton’s thirst for adventure, recalling his decision to undertake this dangerous journey. Despite the risk and uncertainty, Walton’s romantic idealism is evident as he dreams of glory and discovery.
Letter 2 reveals Walton’s loneliness and his deep yearning for a friend who can understand his lofty aspirations. His isolation, a recurring theme in the novel, mirrors Frankenstein's own sense of alienation later in the story.
Letter 3 shows Walton’s unwavering determination to press on with his mission, undeterred by the perils he faces. His resilience foreshadows Frankenstein’s obsessive pursuit of his scientific goals.
Letter 4 introduces the reader to Victor Frankenstein, who is found adrift on the ice and nursed back to health by Walton’s crew. Walton quickly becomes intrigued by this enigmatic man, whose tragic story will soon unfold. The bond that forms between Walton and Frankenstein provides a dual reflection of their shared obsession with knowledge and ambition, setting up the main narrative.

These letters prepare the reader for the central themes of the novel: the consequences of unchecked ambition, the price of isolation, and the dangers of challenging the boundaries of nature.

Key Quotes:

Letter 1:

“I am going to unexplored regions, to ‘the land of mist and snow’; but I shall kill no albatross, therefore do not be alarmed for my safety.”

Letter 2:

“I have no friend, Margaret: when I am glowing with the enthusiasm of success, there will be none to participate in my joy.”

Letter 3:

“But success shall crown my endeavours. Wherefore not? Thus far I have gone, tracing a secure way over the pathless seas, the very stars themselves being witnesses and testimonies of my triumph.”

Letter 4:

“Strange and harrowing must be his story, frightful the storm which embraced the gallant vessel on its course and wrecked it—thus!”

Do you have any favourite quotes or moments from this chapter? I'd love to hear your thoughts and reflections in the comments below! Feel free to share any observations or insights about Walton's letters or any themes you're noticing as we dive into the story.

Keep following along as we journey into Victor Frankenstein's world—there's much more to come in the next chapter!

January 27, 2017September 24, 2024

Jabberwocky — Lewis Carroll

Poem 27 — 100 Days of Poetry

Listen to my reading of Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll here:

About the Poem:
Jabberwocky is one of the most famous nonsense poems in the English language. Written by Lewis Carroll, it appears in Through the Looking-Glass, the sequel to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The poem’s playful use of invented words, combined with a fantastical narrative, has made it a lasting favorite.

Carroll’s mastery of language shines through, and readers are left to use their imaginations to interpret the meaning behind the whimsical creatures and the heroic battle.

Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll

’Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe:
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

“Beware the Jabberwock, my son!
The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!
Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun
The frumious Bandersnatch!”

He took his vorpal sword in hand;
Long time the manxome foe he sought—
So rested he by the Tumtum tree
And stood awhile in thought.

And, as in uffish thought he stood,
The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame,
Came whiffling through the tulgey wood,
And burbled as it came!

One, two! One, two! And through and through
The vorpal blade went snicker-snack!
He left it dead, and with its head
He went galumphing back.

“And hast thou slain the Jabberwock?
Come to my arms, my beamish boy!
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!”
He chortled in his joy.

’Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe:
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

My Reflections on the Poem:
In recording Jabberwocky, I was struck by the balance between whimsy and a sense of adventure. Carroll’s language draws you in, and despite the nonsense words, the narrative structure creates a tension that builds toward the climactic battle with the Jabberwock. It's always a joy to bring this playful work to life!

This post is part of my 100 Days of Poetry series, where I embarked on a journey to record and share 100 poems over 100 days in 2017. Although the series was interrupted, I’m delighted to continue sharing these timeless works with you.