Henry Clerval Quotes

Nothing could equal my delight on seeing Clervel…I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy.

– Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, Chapter 5. Victor is happy to see the familiar face of childhood friend Henry, following his mental breakdown upon completion of the monster.

I loved him with a mixture of affection and reverence that knew no bounds, yet I could never persuade myself to confide to him that event which was so often present to my recollection, but which I feared the detail to another would only impress more deeply.

– Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, Chapter 6. Victor feels unable to share his secrets even with his good friend Henry Clerval.

Study had before secluded me from the intercourse of my fellow-creatures, and rendered me unsocial; but Clervel called forth the better feelings of my heart; he taught me again to love the aspect of nature, and the cheerful faces of children.

– Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, Chapter 6. After abandoning his creature and spending time in nature with childhood friend Henry, Victor Frankenstein discovers the restorative powers of nature.

“His friends mourn and weep, but he is at rest: he does not now feel the murderer’s grasp; a sod covers his gently form, and he knows no pain. He can no longer be a fit subject for pity; the survivors are the greatest sufferers, and for them time is the only consolation.”

– Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, Chapter 7. Henry Clerval on the death of William Frankenstein.