Frankenstein's Minor Characters

Minor Characters Minor characters are very important in a book. Henry, Elizabeth, and Justine are three characters in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein who contribute a lot to the novel. They contribute to the plot, and especially on highlighting Victor’s character. Victor is the main character in this book, and without the help of Henry, Elizabeth, and Justine, Victor wouldn’t have gone through the same experiences or the same emotions. Henry Clerval grew up with Victor in Geneva, so they both care and have a lot of respect for each other. Henry would be willing to do anything to help out his friend. Even just the sight of Henry makes Victor feel better. “I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune… and we walked toward my college.” (37). Henry’s character is so balanced that it makes Victor seem that much crazier. Henry’s sweet, and he would give up anything to help Victor, “When I was otherwise quite restored to health… when I visited the professors.” (43). Henry has done much more than just been sweet. Henry contributes to the plot by thickening the plot and moving the story along. “‘Dearest Clerval,’ exclaimed I, ‘how kind… but you will forgive me.’“ (39). If Henry didn’t nurse Victor back to health, who knows what would have happened to him. Henry Clerval is truly a good guy. Elizabeth Lavenza was adopted into the Frankenstein family. Although she was adopted, they treated her as one of the family. Elizabeth was different. She got amusement and motivation from the beauty of nature, from a different point of view then Victor. “Harmony was the soul of our companionship… for admiration and delight.” (18). Elizabeth found the beauty in everything, and saw the good in everyone. “While my companion contemplated with a serious and satisfied spirit the magnificent appearances of things…” (18). That’s how she helps highlight Victor’s character. He wasn’t loving and caring and compassionate. Only towards her. So put them side by side, and he