Frankenstein - Letters

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Frankenstein – Chapter Analysis Letters – pages 15 – 32 Plot Summary In a series of letters dating from December 11, 17__ to August 19, 17__, to sister Mrs. Margaret Saville of England, Robert Walton describes the preparations he is undertaking for his upcoming voyage to the North Pole. The first letter is written from St. Petersburgh informing Margaret of his arrival in Russia. The correspondence continues from Archangel where Robert arranges for the rental of a ship and the hiring of men to work the vessel. Walton passes these letters on to a merchant sailor who is returning to England. While out at sea, Robert keeps writing to his sister though he is fully aware that it will be some time, if ever, that these newest letters will be received. This body of correspondence allows Robert to express his thoughts and feelings, as well as unburden himself, to his sister. Indeed, Robert shares his intimate dreams and aspirations, his childhood regrets and disappointments, his strict regimen and physical training, his desire for a kindred friend and companion, his witnessing of a man of “gigantic stature” on a sled led by a team of dogs and lastly his acquaintance with a second sledge traveler, Victor Frankenstein. Robert’s kindly ministrations and protection over Victor endears him to Frankenstein. This developing friendship ultimately leads to Victor sharing his very remarkable story. Setting and Atmosphere (through Landscape) “…as I walk in the streets of Petersburgh, I feel a cold northern breeze play upon my cheeks” (Letter I, 15) “How slowly the time passes here, encompassed as I am by frost and snow!” (Letter II, 19). “…my voyage is only now delayed until the weather shall permit my embarkation. The winter has been dreadfully severe…” (Letter II, 21). “…floating sheets of ice that continually pass us, indicating the dangers of the

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