Chapter 18

Back in Geneva, Victor delays creating the companion, torn between dread and duty. His father gently presses him toward marrying Elizabeth, but Victor, bound by his promise to the Creature, instead seeks permission to travel to England for essential research. Arrangements are made for Henry Clerval to join him. Victor departs, haunted by fear yet clinging to the hope that completing his task will bring peace. The journey down the Rhine contrasts Henry’s delight in nature with Victor’s gloom. They continue through Holland and by sea to England, arriving at the Thames and London’s storied skyline.