The sexist stereotypes in which this tribute is expressed can be (as they have been)
laid at Mary Shelley's doorstep. But it is, after all, Victor who is speaking, and
his monologue is telling the reader a great deal about him that he does not seem to
realize. Since this is a technique by which fictional characterization is traditionally
accomplished, perhaps the reader will want to hold him as a character fully responsible
for his own sentiments. The Preface, we will remember, went out of its way to separate
the author from her characters (I:Pref:2).
Leaving Victor's perspective to the side, we may, as readers, surely honor the affectionate
warmth with which Elizabeth assumes her nurturing domestic role and melds her small
community together. We might wish, however, to suspend judgment on its absolute value
until later events can confirm that it profits her as much as it does those she so
selflessly serves.