“Victor, no.”: Henry Clerval, Tough Love, and Good Intentions Some have a natural charisma that renders them likable to the majority of the population. People are attracted to those who portray characteristics that are genuine and would be favorable directed towards themselves. These kinds of people are easy to root for and support. Henry Clerval from Frankenstein has several of these traits, including being perceptive and sensitive. He is a man that wouldn’t hesitate in bestowing such qualities upon everyone he meets. Thus, Henry Clerval is the best candidate for the nomination of Everybody’s Friend. While Victor Frankenstein was more interested in the science behind the world, Clerval was entranced by the human and moral side, yet he still …show more content…
Instead of being spooked and abandoning him, he stays by his side for several months, nursing Victor back to health, knowing “that [Victor] could not have a more kind and attentive nurse than himself; and, firm in the hope he felt of [Victor’s] recovery, he did not doubt that, instead of doing harm, he performed the kindest action that he could towards [Victor’s family]” (64). The kindest action, in this situation, is to not inform Victor’s family of the seriousness of the situation. Simply staying with Victor speaks to Henry’s loyalty and him choosing to downplay the circumstances speaks to a high level of sensitivity. It is hard to make a decision that seems dangerous, especially if one isn’t sure of their ability to handle it, yet Henry, a man of the humanities, persisted because he was aware of the negative emotional effect it would have on the rest of the Frankensteins. Not getting a sick man help is an event with negative connotations out of context that Clerval knew could do good. Not to mention he is also good friends with Elizabeth, Victor’s adopted sister, and didn’t want to worry her. He is also preserving Elizabeth’s best interests and not sacrificing any of his friends needs for the other, choosing to take full responsibility over both. Henry is a well-meaning person that positively affects everyone around