Editor's Choice

In Frankenstein, what does the monster call the cottagers?

Quick answer:

In "Frankenstein," the monster refers to the De Lacey family as his "protectors" and "friends," despite their lack of awareness of his existence. He hopes to learn their language to present himself and gain their acceptance, dreaming of being part of their seemingly perfect and kind family. However, this is a self-deception, as they react with fear and violence upon discovering him, highlighting the irony of his chosen terms.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

In addition to referring to the DeLacey family as his "protectors," as the other educator commented, the creature also refers to them as his "friends," despite the fact that he does not have a relationship with them in which he is truly known by them. He hopes to learn their language so that he can present and explain himself to them and thereby prevent them from responding to him as though he were a monster who means to harm them. He thinks that his being able to speak to them will help them to overlook his ugliness. The creature sees them as perfect—beautiful and graceful and kind to one another—and he dreams of being accepted by them as a true friend. He grows despondent and mortified when he catches glimpses of his own reflection.

Approved by eNotes Editorial
An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

As he tells his story to Victor, the monster admits that he liked to call the De Laceys his "protectors" even though they were unaware of his presence. He says that it was "an innocent, half painful self-deceit" to call them by this name. The irony, of course, is that once the creature is discovered by the De Laceys, Felix attacks him rather than protecting him.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial