I was their plaything and their idol and something better - their child, the innocent and helpless monster bestowed on them by heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery.

My mother’s tender caresses and my father’s smile of benevolent pleasure while regarding me are my first recollections. I was their plaything and their idol and something better – their child, the innocent and helpless monster bestowed on them by heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery, according as they fulfilled their duties towards me.

– Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, Chapter 1. Victor Frankenstein speaks of his happy childhood and how he was deeply loved by his parents. His use of the word “monster” foreshadows his later behavior and the terrible deeds to come.

Mary Shelley Quotes