Favorite Scene from Frankenstein

Chapter 15 (in the Barnes & Noble Classics Edition)

My favorite part in Frankenstein was the monster's encounter with De Lacey, and eventually Felix, Agatha, and Safie. After observing the family for so long, the monster finally gathers the courage to seek the companionship of the family. Since the old man is blind, the monster believes that if he can win over De Lacey with his personality, in turn he will convince the others of his kindness. Unfortunately, before the monster can converse with De Lacey for a substantial amount of the time, the others return. They are terrified and repulsed by the monster's appearance, and Felix drives him away.

Up until the monster tells his story to Victor Frankenstein, my only perception of the monster was that of Victor's. When I discovered how eloquent and gentile the monster actually is, my opinion changed from believing he was evil and irrational. Upon hearing the monster talk about his isolation and desolation, I felt compassion towards him. I found myself hoping for a friend for the monster, hence why I was so anxious for his attempt to form a bond with the family he had been observed for so long. This is why his encounter De Lacey is such an important part in the story. The monster has what he wants right in his grasp -- a connection to human beings. But the reaction of Felix, Agatha, and Safie destroys this dream in an instant when the monster realizes he will never be accepted by humans due to his ghastly appearance. The reason as to why this part stands out to me is because I believe it shows how human the monster actually is. All in all he desires the same thing pretty much every human being does: acceptance.