The novel is told by Victor to Robert Walton, a sailor on a voyage to the North Pole.
At the beginning of the story the monster begins to recognize the gentle manner of the family that he lives near, the De Lacey's. But, when he reveals himself to the family, they reject him and he destroys everything in sight. This rejection makes him feel tremendous hatred towards humans and he begins to hate his creator for making him so hideous. He kills Victor's brother at first, Victor's wife and his best friend too. This all increases the guilt that Victor has because he feels responsible for the deaths of all these people.
Victor makes it his mission to destroy the monster, who has been wreaking havoc in his life. In the meanwhile, he is approached by the monster, who requests that he create another being who can be his companion. Although Victor initially refuses to do it, the monster eventually persuades him to do it. But, just before the second creature is brought to life he realizes what he is doing and destroys it, not caring what the monster will do to him. .
Angered at the sight of victor destroying his long awaited companion, the monster threatens to be there with Victor on his wedding night. Upon returning to the mainland from his makeshift lab on a secluded island off the coast, Victor is immediately accused of a murder. He later learns that the victim in the crime is his best friend Henry Clerval.
After the wedding takes place, Victor fears for his life. But, what he doesn't realize is that the monster is not out to kill him. He later discovers that Elizabeth was killed by the monster and this crushes him. Vowing to do anything to get revenge and destroy his creation, Victor follows the creature which leaves small clues along the way. He eventually ends up at the North Pole. Tired, cold, and hungry he tells his story to Walton.
Upon completing his story Victor dies. Walton hears a noise in the cabin where Victor lay and goes to investigate.
