WDA Classics Presents Mary Shelley's Frankenstein characters

Appears from the start

The captain of an expedition seeking a northern passage and scientific discovery. In letters to his sister Margaret, he records the rescue and testimony of Victor Frankenstein.

Appears from the start

A Genevan student whose desire to understand and generate life grows into a secret, consuming experiment. Walton finds him near death in the Arctic, where Victor explains the choices that brought him there.

Appears from the start

Victor's adopted cousin, childhood companion, and intended bride. She is closely attached to the Frankenstein family and represents the domestic bonds Victor neglects during his scientific obsession.

Appears from the start

Victor's loving and socially respected father, based in Geneva. He finances Victor's studies and tries to draw his son back toward family life whenever Victor retreats into secrecy and grief.

Appears from the start

Victor's youngest brother, still a child when Victor leaves Geneva for university.

First appears in chapter 2

Victor's loyal friend from childhood, drawn more to literature, languages, and public service than to experimental science. He comes to Ingolstadt and cares for Victor during a severe illness.

First appears in chapter 3

A chemistry professor at Ingolstadt whose welcoming manner and account of scientific progress encourage Victor to undertake ambitious research.

Also known as The Creature

First appears in chapter 5

A large humanlike being made from dead matter and brought to life by Victor. His first experience is immediate rejection: Victor is horrified by the result of his work and runs away, leaving the new being without explanation or support.

First appears in chapter 7

A young woman long connected with the Frankenstein household. She is charged with William's murder when an item taken from the child is discovered among her belongings, although Elizabeth firmly defends her.

First appears in chapter 12

The blind father of an exiled French family living in a modest cottage. His inability to see the creation's appearance gives the isolated being hope that conversation might win acceptance.

First appears in chapter 12

De Lacey's son, who shares the cottage with his father and sister Agatha. His lessons to Safie also provide the secretly observing creation with language and an education in human society.

First appears in chapter 13

The daughter of a Turkish merchant and the woman Felix loves. She finds the De Laceys in exile and studies French with them, unaware that another pupil is listening from hiding.