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A plot is the sequence of major events in a narrative, wherein the main character wants something, an antagonist rises to thwart that desire, and conflict ensues. Read more: What Is Plot in Literature?
Major Conflict
- The major conflict in Frankenstein is rooted in Victor’s inability—or refusal—to understand and acknowledge that his actions have repercussions. The monster functions as the most stark reminder of how Victor has failed to take responsibility for his defiance of the laws of nature. The first signs of the conflict appear when Victor throws himself into his studies at the University of Ingolstadt, neglecting his family and fiancée. The conflict deepens when, having “succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life,” Victor becomes obsessed with creating life. He is consumed by ambition and willfully blind to the potentially terrible consequences of his experiments.
Rising Action
- Immediately after animating the monster, Frankenstein reacts with horror and disgust and runs from the room, abandoning his creation and setting off a terrible chain of events.
Climax
- Elizabeth Lavenza is murdered by the monster on the night of her wedding to Victor Frankenstein in Chapter 23.
Falling Action
- After the murder of Elizabeth Lavenza, Victor Frankenstein chases the monster to the northern ice, is rescued by Robert Walton, narrates his story, and dies.
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