1. Foreshadowing and Ominous Atmosphere:
- Shelley masterfully sets the tone by building an atmosphere of foreboding and impending doom. She plants hints and subtle clues that suggest the creature's vengeful pursuit and the looming danger that Victor and his loved ones face.
2. Shifting Perspectives:
- Shelley alternates between the perspectives of Victor and the creature, heightening the tension by providing contrasting viewpoints. The reader is privy to the thoughts, emotions, and motivations of both characters, creating a sense of uncertainty about their next actions.
3. Characterization and Internal Conflict:
- The inner struggles of both Victor and the creature are deeply explored in these chapters. Readers are drawn into their psychological torment and divided loyalties, fostering empathy and uncertainty about their ultimate fates.
4. Intensifying the Chase:
- The pursuit of the creature becomes a central focus, as Victor frantically races to protect himself and those close to him. The relentless pursuit adds to the feeling of urgency and constant peril.
5. Physical and Psychological Terror:
- Shelley amplifies the suspense by incorporating both physical and psychological elements of horror. The creature's grotesque appearance and violent actions instill fear, while the psychological impact on Victor's sanity further intensifies the sense of dread.
6. Heightened Emotions:
- The emotional intensity of the characters' interactions reaches fever pitch. Victor's desperation, guilt, and overwhelming grief over the loss of his loved ones contribute to the intense emotional turmoil that grips the reader.
7. Pacing and Timing:
- The pacing of the narrative accelerates as the plot thickens. Shelley skillfully orchestrates the timing of events and revelations to build anticipation and maintain an edge-of-the-seat atmosphere.
8. Climactic Confrontation:
- The chapters culminate in a spine-chilling confrontation between Victor and the creature in the frozen Arctic landscape. The intensity and emotional weight of this confrontation further amplifies the suspense.
By masterfully weaving together these techniques, Mary Shelley effectively sustains an atmosphere of suspense and dread in chapters 17-21 of "Frankenstein", keeping readers captivated and eagerly turning the pages to witness the unfolding fate of Victor and his creation.