When Victor returns, he tells Elizabeth, “You are mine. You have been since the first day we met. You will be mine forever,” leading her to reflect that she “was still safe, then” (this page). How does Victor’s statement lead her to this conclusion? Does Victor’s response ensure her safety? How does Elizabeth define safety in this circumstance, and should this be her primary concern? What does Victor imply here about the way he sees Elizabeth, and the way she sees herself? What is revealed about their relationship? Do they see each other in the same way?
As they discuss Henry’s proposal, Victor notes that “Men will ever strive for that which is out of reach. For that which is higher than themselves. For that which is divine” (this page). How does this statement apply to Henry’s proposal? How might this statement apply to Victor? What is Victor revealing about his understanding of gender dynamics?
Once she is placed in the asylum, Elizabeth divulges that “[The institution] had stripped [the women] of everything we were taught made us women, and then told us we were mad.” What had they been “taught made [them] women”? What does this tell us about how women are viewed in this society? What is their purpose? Why does taking away the “collars up to our chins, long skirts, and corsets” (this page) have such an effect on their self-images? After explaining that she was committed for trying to leave her abusive husband, one woman on the floor says, “Ask the other women what they are in for and you will find more of the same” (this page). What does this tell us about the purpose of the asylum? Why would Victor put Elizabeth there?