Who and Why Killed William in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein?

In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," the murder of William Frankenstein is a pivotal event that sets in motion a chain of tragic consequences. William, the youngest member of the Frankenstein family, is killed by the Creature that Victor Frankenstein created. The murder is an act of revenge and a direct response to the anguish and isolation that the Creature experiences due to his own existence.

The Creature's motive for killing William is primarily rooted in his desire for revenge against Victor. The Creature's life is filled with rejection and loneliness after being abandoned by Victor immediately after his creation. He seeks solace in relationships but is met with fear and hatred from society. When the Creature learns that William is a member of the Frankenstein family, he seizes the opportunity to strike back at Victor by taking away something beloved to him.

The Creature's act of murder reflects his growing bitterness and resentment towards humanity, particularly Victor, who is responsible for his miserable existence. In a letter to Victor, the Creature states, "I, the miserable and the abandoned, am an abortion, to be spurned at, and kicked, and trampled on." This desperation and anguish fuel his desire for vengeance.

The murder of William also highlights the moral and ethical implications of Victor's creation. The Creature's actions are a consequence of Victor's irresponsible pursuit of scientific knowledge and his failure to take responsibility for his creation. The novel raises questions about the responsibilities of creators towards their creations and the potential consequences of unchecked scientific ambition.

In conclusion, William's murder in "Frankenstein" is committed by the Creature as an act of revenge against Victor Frankenstein. The killing reflects the Creature's deep sense of isolation, bitterness, and desire for vengeance due to his rejection by society and his creator. Mary Shelley's novel explores themes of responsibility, revenge, and the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement through this tragic event.