Frankenstein

Mary Shelley

ESL Easy Read

Reading Comprehension B1 • Original Text • Português Support

AMOSTRA - contém apenas 15% do texto

Copyright

Fonte original - domínio público

Esta edição ESL Easy Read foi adaptada a partir de Frankenstein, de Mary Shelley, publicado originalmente em 1818.

A obra original encontra-se em domínio público e pode ser utilizada, reproduzida, distribuída e adaptada de acordo com a legislação aplicável.

Autor

Mary Shelley (1797 - 1851)

Estados Unidos

Esta obra foi publicada originalmente em 1818.

Nos Estados Unidos, obras publicadas antes de 1930 encontram-se normalmente em domínio público.

Com base no ano de publicação disponível, esta obra encontra-se em domínio público nos Estados Unidos desde 1º de janeiro de 1914.

Brasil

Autor: Mary Shelley (1797 - 1851)

De acordo com a Lei nº 9.610/1998, os direitos patrimoniais expiram 70 anos após a morte do autor, contados a partir de 1º de janeiro do ano seguinte ao falecimento.

Mary Shelley faleceu em 1851.

Situação no Brasil: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Portugal

Autor: Mary Shelley (1797 - 1851)

De acordo com o Código do Direito de Autor e dos Direitos Conexos, a proteção patrimonial dura 70 anos após a morte do autor.

Mary Shelley faleceu em 1851.

Situação em Portugal: DOMÍNIO PÚBLICO.

Dados da publicação original

Obra original: Frankenstein

Autor: Mary Shelley

Primeira publicação: 1818

Local: London, UK

Primeiro editor: Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor & Jones

Verifique você mesmo

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→ Project Gutenberg — https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/84

O registro do Project Gutenberg identifica esta obra como domínio público nos Estados Unidos.

→ Internet Archive — https://archive.org/details/isbn_9788571643987

Preserva digitalizações e registros bibliográficos de edições impressas da obra original.

Esta adaptação ESL Easy Read

Nenhum direito autoral é reivindicado sobre o texto original em domínio público. A estrutura editorial desta edição, as versões de leitura simplificada, as traduções de apoio, o layout, a capa e o aparato pedagógico são protegidos por direitos autorais.

© 2026 MicMac from Las Vegas LLC. Todos os direitos reservados.

Introdução

Como ler este livro

Cada livro desta coleção é apresentado em um nível de leitura simplificada, de acordo com o CEFR - Quadro Europeu Comum de Referência para Línguas.

A2 - Básico: indicado para leitores que já compreendem frases simples, vocabulário frequente e textos curtos sobre situações do cotidiano.

B1 - Intermediário: indicado para leitores que conseguem compreender as ideias principais de textos claros e acompanhar uma narrativa com vocabulário e estruturas de dificuldade moderada.

B2 - Intermediário avançado: indicado para leitores que já conseguem compreender textos mais complexos, acompanhar descrições detalhadas e reconhecer uma variedade maior de vocabulário e estruturas gramaticais.

Este livro foi adaptado para o nível B1.

Você pode começar a lê-lo mesmo sem dominar completamente o inglês. O texto foi simplificado para facilitar a compreensão, preservando a história, os personagens, o ambiente e os principais acontecimentos da obra original.

O objetivo não é substituir a obra original, mas criar uma passagem gradual entre o inglês que você já conhece e a linguagem literária do texto completo.

Como usar En/Pt

No texto simplificado em inglês, En/Pt abre a página correspondente.

A página En/Pt apresenta três camadas independentes, sempre nesta ordem: a tradução em português do texto simplificado; o trecho correspondente do original em inglês; e a tradução em português do original.

No texto original em inglês, Pt abre diretamente o mesmo parágrafo na versão portuguesa. Nessa versão, En retorna ao mesmo parágrafo no texto original em inglês. Na página En/Pt, Original English retorna de Português Integral ao mesmo parágrafo original.

Como usar o glossário

As palavras e expressões incluídas no glossário são marcadas no texto. Clique ou selecione uma delas para abrir a entrada correspondente.

Cada entrada apresenta:

• a palavra ou expressão original em inglês;

• a sua pronúncia fonética;

• a tradução em português;

• um exemplo de uso em português;

• um exemplo de uso em inglês;

• até seis trechos do livro em que a palavra ou expressão aparece, ou todos os trechos disponíveis quando houver menos de seis ocorrências.

Cada ocorrência apresentada no glossário inclui um link direto para o ponto exato do livro em que a palavra ou expressão foi usada.

Depois de consultar uma ocorrência, o leitor pode retornar diretamente ao ponto do texto de onde abriu o glossário ou navegar para qualquer outra ocorrência da mesma palavra ou expressão dentro do livro.

A função da tradução em português

Procuramos oferecer traduções em português claras, naturais e literariamente agradáveis, tanto para o texto simplificado quanto para o texto original.

Ainda assim, a tradução deve ser entendida apenas como instrumento de apoio. Este livro não foi concebido para ser lido principalmente em português: seu objetivo é ajudar você a ler em inglês e recorrer ao português somente quando necessário.

Sempre que possível, tente primeiro compreender o trecho em inglês. Consulte a tradução para confirmar o sentido, esclarecer uma dificuldade ou comparar estruturas; depois, retorne ao texto em inglês.

Sobre este livro

Ambitious student Victor Frankenstein, obsessed with the mysteries of life, animates a being stitched from dead flesh, but recoils in disgust the moment it opens its eyes and abandons it. Alone and reviled for his monstrous appearance, the creature secretly teaches himself to speak and read, longing for companionship, yet meets only fear and cruelty from every human he encounters. Embittered, he confronts Victor and demands a female companion; when Victor refuses, the creature takes revenge by murdering those Victor loves, including his bride. Consumed by guilt and hatred, Victor vows to destroy his creation and pursues it across Europe into the frozen Arctic, where the story is recounted to a polar explorer. There, exhausted and dying, Victor perishes, and the sorrowful creature vanishes into the ice, both destroyed by their terrible bond.

Declaração sobre conteúdo gerado por inteligência artificial

Esta edição contém conteúdo gerado por ferramentas baseadas em inteligência artificial, incluindo o texto em inglês simplificado, traduções em português e elementos visuais da capa e/ou do interior. O conteúdo foi submetido a revisão editorial humana.

AI-generated content disclosure: This edition contains content generated by AI-based tools, including simplified English text, Portuguese translations, and visual elements used in the cover and/or interior. The content received human editorial review.

Como usar este livro

En/Pt → abre Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1), Original English Version e Tradução Integral em Português no mesmo bloco.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada e Go to the Original English Version retornam ao ponto exato.

Os links pontilhados do glossário voltam diretamente ao uso real da palavra.

Contato

MicMac from Las Vegas LLC
Contato: admin@esleasyread.com

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Reading Comprehension B1

Chapter I

Chapter II

Chapter III

Chapter IV

Chapter V

Contents

Chapter I

En/Pt → I was born in Geneva, and my family is one of the most respected there. My ancestors were councillors and syndics for many years, and my father held several public roles with honor. Everyone who knew him respected him because he was honest and worked hard for the public good. In his younger years, he was always busy with his country’s affairs. For many reasons, he did not marry until late in life, and only then did he become a husband and father.

En/Pt → My father’s marriage shows his character, so I must tell how it happened. One of his closest friends was a merchant named Beaufort. After many bad events, Beaufort lost his wealth and became poor. He was proud and stubborn, and he could not bear to live in poverty in the same country where he had once been famous for his status and luxury. So, after paying his debts in an honorable way, he went with his daughter to Lucerne and lived there in secret and misery. My father loved Beaufort as a true friend and was deeply saddened by his fall. He hated the false pride that had led his friend to such a sad life. He quickly tried to find him, hoping to persuade him to start over with his help and support.

En/Pt → Beaufort had hidden himself so well that it took ten months before my father found where he lived. My father was very happy and went at once to the house, which stood in a poor street near the Reuss. But when he entered, he found only misery and despair. Beaufort had saved only a little money from his ruined fortunes. It was enough to live on for a few months, while he hoped to find respectable work in a merchant’s house. But he spent this time doing nothing. His grief grew stronger when he had time to think, and at last it took such hold of him that after three months he became sick and could do nothing.

His daughter cared for him with great tenderness, but she saw in fear that their small money was quickly running out and that they had no other support. Still, Caroline Beaufort had a strong mind. Her courage rose to meet her troubles. She took simple sewing work and plaited straw. In different ways, she earned just enough to keep them alive.

En/Pt → This went on for several months. Her father became worse, and she spent more and more time caring for him. Their money got smaller, and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her alone and poor. This last blow broke her heart. She knelt by Beaufort’s coffin and cried bitterly when my father entered the room. He came to the girl like a protector, and she trusted herself to his care. After his friend was buried, he took her to Geneva and placed her with a relative. Two years later, Caroline became his wife.

En/Pt → My parents were very different in age, but this only made their loving bond stronger. My father had a strong sense of right and needed to deeply respect someone before he could truly love them. Perhaps he had once been hurt by someone he trusted, so now he valued proven goodness more than before. He showed my mother a feeling of gratitude and reverence, not the weak love of old age. He admired her virtues and wanted to help repay the sorrow she had suffered. This made him very gentle with her. Everything had to fit her wishes and comfort. He tried to protect her from all hardship, like a gardener protecting a rare flower from rough weather, and to surround her with things that would please her kind mind. Her health, and even her usual calm spirit, had been damaged by what she had gone through. During the two years before their marriage, my father slowly gave up his public duties. After they married, they traveled to Italy, hoping that the warm climate and new sights would help restore her weak body.

En/Pt → From Italy they traveled to Germany and France. I was their first child and was born in Naples. As a baby, I traveled with them. For several years, I was their only child. They loved each other deeply, yet they seemed to have endless love to give me too. My earliest memories are of my mother’s gentle hugs and my father’s kind smile as he looked at me. I was their plaything and their treasure, but I was also more than that: I was their child, given to them by Heaven. They knew it was their duty to raise me well, and my future happiness or misery would depend on them. Because they understood this and because both were full of tenderness, I was taught patience, kindness, and self-control every day. Yet it felt to me as if I was guided by a soft ribbon, so my whole childhood seemed full of happiness.

En/Pt → For a long time, I was their only concern. My mother had wanted a daughter, but I remained their only child. When I was about five, they traveled outside Italy and spent a week near Lake Como. They often visited poor cottages because they were kind-hearted. For my mother, this was more than a duty. It was a deep need and a passion, because she remembered her own suffering and how she had been helped. She wanted to be a guardian angel for others in pain. During one walk, they noticed a poor hut in a valley, very sad-looking, with many half-dressed children around it. This showed deep poverty. One day, when my father had gone to Milan alone, my mother took me and visited the hut. There she found a peasant and his wife, both worn down by work and worry, sharing a small meal with five hungry children. One child stood out above all the others. She did not seem to belong to that family. The other four children had dark eyes and looked rough and strong, but this child was thin and very fair. Her hair was bright gold, and even though her clothes were poor, she looked noble. Her forehead was wide and clear, her blue eyes were bright, and her face showed such sweetness and feeling that anyone would think she was a heavenly child.

En/Pt → The peasant woman saw my mother’s wonder and admiration for the lovely child, and she quickly told her story. The child was not her own. She was the daughter of a nobleman from Milan. Her mother was German and had died when she was born. The baby had been given to this good couple to care for. At that time, they were better off. They had only recently married, and their eldest child had just been born. The child’s father was one of those Italians who still remembered the old glory of Italy and fought for the freedom of his country. But he became a victim of the weak state of his country. No one knew if he had died or was still alive in Austrian prisons. His property was taken away, and his child was left an orphan and beggar. She stayed with her foster parents and grew up in their poor home, more beautiful than a rose in a wild garden.

En/Pt → When my father came back from Milan, he found a child playing with me in the hall of our villa. She was more beautiful than a painted angel, and she seemed to shine with light. Her movements were as light as a mountain goat’s. The mystery was soon explained. With my father’s permission, my mother had persuaded her simple guardians to give the child to her care. They loved the sweet orphan, and her presence had seemed like a blessing. But it would not be right to keep her in poverty when Providence offered her such strong protection. They asked their village priest for advice, and in the end Elizabeth Lavenza came to live in my parents’ house. She was more than a sister to me, and she became the beautiful, beloved companion of all my work and play.

En/Pt → Everyone loved Elizabeth. I felt proud and happy to share that love. The evening before she came to my home, my mother said, jokingly, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” The next day she gave Elizabeth to me as her promised gift. I took her words very seriously and thought of Elizabeth as mine, someone I must protect, love, and care for. I accepted every praise of her as praise for something I owned. We called each other cousin. No word could fully describe our bond. She was more than a sister to me, and until death she was to be mine alone.

Chapter II

En/Pt → We grew up together, with less than a year between us. We never had serious arguments. Harmony was the heart of our friendship, and our different characters brought us even closer. Elizabeth was calmer and more focused. I was more intense and loved learning deeply. She enjoyed the poets and their dreamy worlds. In our Swiss home, the mountains, the changing seasons, storms and calm, and the quiet of winter gave her great joy. I liked to study why things happened. The world was a mystery I wanted to understand. Curiosity and the joy of learning the hidden laws of nature were among my earliest memories.

En/Pt → When my second brother was born, seven years after me, my parents gave up their wandering life and settled in their native country. We had a house in Geneva and a country home on Bellerive, on the eastern side of the lake, a little more than a league from the city. We lived mostly in the country home, and my parents lived quietly and apart from many people. I also liked to avoid crowds and to give my full loyalty to a few friends. So I did not care much for most of my schoolmates, but I became very close to one of them. Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant in Geneva. He was talented and imaginative. He loved adventure, hardship, and danger. He read books about knights and romance, wrote heroic songs, and began many stories of magic and brave deeds. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre.

En/Pt → No human being could have had a happier childhood than mine. My parents were very kind and forgiving. We knew they were not cruel rulers deciding our lives by chance, but the people who gave us all our joys. When I met other families, I could clearly see how lucky I was, and this made my love for my parents even stronger.

My temper was sometimes violent, and my feelings were strong. But this energy did not lead me to childish games. Instead, it became a strong wish to learn. I did not want to learn everything. I was not interested in language structure, governments, or politics. What I wanted was to know the secrets of heaven and earth. I wanted to understand the outer nature of things, the hidden spirit of nature, and the mysterious soul of man. My studies were always about the deeper physical and philosophical secrets of the world.

En/Pt → Clerval cared about the moral side of life. He loved the public world, the deeds of heroes, and the actions of men. He dreamed of becoming one of the people remembered in history as brave and helpful to others. Elizabeth’s pure spirit shone in our peaceful home like a lamp in a shrine. Her sympathy belonged to all of us. Her smile, soft voice, and bright eyes always gave us comfort and energy. She was a living spirit of love, calming and drawing people close. I might have become gloomy in my studies and rough because of my intense nature, but she was there to make me gentler. And Clerval, noble as he was, became even more humane and generous because Elizabeth showed him the true beauty of kindness and made doing good the goal of his great ambition.

En/Pt → I take great pleasure in remembering my childhood, before misfortune changed my mind and turned my hopeful dreams of helping others into dark, selfish thoughts. As I tell the story of my early life, I also tell of the events that slowly led to my later misery. When I try to understand how that passion began, I see that it started from small, almost forgotten causes, like a mountain river. But as it grew, it became a great flood that swept away all my hopes and joys.

En/Pt → Natural philosophy shaped my fate, so I want to explain what led me to love that science. When I was thirteen, we went on a pleasure trip to the baths near Thonon. Bad weather forced us to stay one day at the inn. There I found a book by Cornelius Agrippa. I opened it without interest, but his ideas and the strange facts he told soon filled me with excitement. It felt as if a new light had entered my mind. Happy and eager, I showed the book to my father. He only glanced at the title page and said, “Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! My dear Victor, do not waste your time on this; it is sad trash.”

En/Pt → If my father had explained that Agrippa’s ideas were completely rejected and that a modern system of science had replaced them, I would surely have put the book aside. Then I would have returned with even greater energy to my earlier studies. It is even possible that my thoughts would never have taken the path that led to my ruin. But my father only gave the book a quick look, so I did not know whether he understood it. I therefore kept reading with great eagerness.

En/Pt → When I returned home, I first got the full works of this writer, and then those of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. I read their strange ideas with delight. To me, they were treasures known to only a few people. I have said that I always had a strong desire to understand nature’s secrets. But even with the hard work and great discoveries of modern scientists, I always finished my studies feeling unhappy and unsatisfied. Sir Isaac Newton is said to have said that he felt like a child collecting shells beside the great, unknown ocean of truth. The scientists after him, in the branches of natural philosophy that I knew, seemed to me like beginners working on the same task.

En/Pt → The uneducated peasant knew the natural world and how to use it in practice. Even the most learned philosopher knew little more. He had partly revealed Nature, but her true form was still a wonder and a mystery. He could cut things open, study them, and give them names, but he still did not know their deeper causes. I had looked at the barriers that seemed to keep humans from entering nature’s stronghold, and I had complained foolishly and without knowledge.

En/Pt → But here were books, and here were men who knew more and had gone deeper. I believed what they said and became their student. It may seem strange that this happened in the eighteenth century, but while I followed school lessons in Geneva, I was mostly teaching myself in my favorite studies. My father was not a scientist, so I had to struggle with a child’s ignorance and a student’s strong desire to learn. Guided by my new teachers, I worked hard to find the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life. Soon, however, the elixir of life became my only aim. I cared less about money than about glory. What great fame would come if I could end disease in the human body and make people safe from death except by violence!

En/Pt → These were not my only dreams. My favorite books promised that ghosts or devils could be raised, and I eagerly tried to do this. If my spells failed, I blamed my own lack of experience and mistakes, not my teachers. For a time, I was lost in old and useless theories. I mixed a thousand opposite ideas like someone who had not learned the craft, and I struggled in a deep swamp of many kinds of knowledge. My keen imagination and childish thinking led me on, until an accident changed my ideas again.

En/Pt → When I was about fifteen, we were living in our house near Bellerive when we saw a terrible thunderstorm. It came from behind the Jura mountains, and thunder exploded loudly from many parts of the sky. While it lasted, I watched it with curiosity and pleasure. Then, as I stood at the door, I suddenly saw a stream of fire shoot from an old, beautiful oak tree about twenty yards from our house. When the bright light disappeared, the oak was gone, and only a broken stump was left. The next morning we looked at it and saw that the tree had been ruined in a strange way. It had not been broken into splinters by a blow, but had been turned into thin strips of wood. I had never seen anything destroyed so completely.

En/Pt → Before this, I knew the more obvious laws of electricity. That day, a man who studied natural philosophy deeply was with us. Moved by the strange event, he explained a theory about electricity and galvanism that was new and amazing to me. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. But for some reason, their defeat made me stop my old studies. It felt as if nothing could ever be known. Everything that had once interested me suddenly seemed worthless. In a youthful mood of changing feelings, I gave up my former work at once. I dismissed natural history and all related studies as ugly and weak, and I felt deep contempt for a science that could never even reach the doorway of real knowledge. Then I turned to mathematics and the subjects connected with it, because they seemed based on firm ground and worthy of my attention.

En/Pt → Human hearts are strangely made, and very small things can lead us to success or ruin. Looking back, I feel that this almost magical change in my wishes and will was the work of the guardian angel of my life, the last effort of the spirit of safety to turn away the storm that was already waiting for me. Her victory showed itself in a strange calm and happiness after I gave up those old studies that had lately tormented me. In this way, I was taught to connect evil with following them, and happiness with leaving them aside.

It was a strong effort from the spirit of good, but it did not work. Fate was too powerful, and its unchangeable laws had decided my complete and terrible destruction.

Chapter III

En/Pt → When I was seventeen, my parents decided that I should study at the university of Ingolstadt. Until then, I had gone to school in Geneva, but my father believed I needed to learn customs beyond my own country in order to finish my education. So my departure was set for an early date. But before that day arrived, the first misfortune of my life happened, like a sign of the misery that would later come.

En/Pt → Elizabeth had caught scarlet fever. She was very ill and in great danger. While she was sick, many people tried to stop my mother from caring for her. At first, she agreed to our pleas. But when she heard that Elizabeth’s life was at risk, she could no longer stay away. She watched over her sick bed, and her care overcame the disease. Elizabeth was saved, but this act of care caused fatal results for the one who saved her. On the third day, my mother fell ill. Her fever came with very worrying signs, and the doctors feared the worst. Even on her deathbed, this best of women stayed brave and kind. She joined Elizabeth’s hands with mine and said, "My children, I had the strongest hopes of future happiness because of your marriage. Now that hope will comfort your father. Elizabeth, my love, you must take my place with my younger children. I am sad to leave you. I have been happy and loved, and it is hard to part from you all. But these are not thoughts for me now. I will try to face death calmly, and I hope to meet you again in another world."

En/Pt → She died peacefully, and her face showed love even in death. I do not need to describe the pain of those whose closest bonds are broken by such a loss. There is an emptiness in the soul and despair on the face. At first, the mind can hardly believe that the person seen every day, and whose life seemed part of our own, is gone forever. It is hard to believe that a beloved eye has gone dark, and that a voice so familiar and dear will never be heard again. These are the thoughts of the first days. Later, when time proves the loss is real, the true bitterness of grief begins. Yet who has not lost someone dear in this rough world? Why should I describe a sorrow that all people have felt and must feel? In time, grief becomes more of a choice than a need, and even a smile may appear again. My mother was dead, but we still had duties to do. We had to go on with life and be thankful that one loved person was still left to us.

En/Pt → My departure for Ingolstadt, which had been delayed by these events, was now decided again. My father gave me a few more weeks before I left. It felt wrong to leave so soon the quiet house of mourning and return to busy life. I was new to grief, and it still frightened me. I did not want to leave the people I still had with me. Above all, I wanted to see my dear Elizabeth comforted in some way.

She truly hid her sorrow and tried to comfort us all. She faced life firmly and took on her duties with courage and energy. She gave herself to those she had been taught to call her uncle and cousins. She was never more lovely than then, when her smiles returned and she shared them with us. She even forgot her own pain while trying to help us forget ours.

En/Pt → At last the day of my departure came. Clerval spent the last evening with us. He had tried to persuade his father to let him come with me and study with me, but it was useless. His father was a narrow-minded trader and saw only laziness and ruin in his son’s hopes and ambition. Henry felt deeply the loss of a good education. He said little, but when he spoke, I could see in his bright eyes and lively face a hidden but firm decision not to be tied to the dull life of trade.

We sat up late. We could not bear to part, and we could not even bring ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” But it was said, and we went to bed pretending to rest, each one thinking the others were fooled. At dawn, when I went down to the carriage that would take me away, they were all there. My father came again to bless me. Clerval pressed my hand once more. My Elizabeth begged me again to write often, and gave me her last loving care as my friend and childhood companion.

En/Pt → I got into the carriage that was to take me away, and I fell into sad thoughts. I had always been surrounded by kind companions, always trying to give and share happiness. Now I was alone. At the university I was going to, I would have to make my own friends and protect myself. My life had always been quiet and home-centered, and this made me strongly dislike new faces. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; they were familiar faces I knew well. But I believed I was not made for the company of strangers. These were my thoughts when I began my journey. Yet as I went on, my spirits rose. I strongly wanted knowledge. At home, I had often felt it was hard to spend my youth shut up in one place, and I had longed to see the world and take my place among other people. Now that wish was coming true, so it would have been foolish to regret it.

En/Pt → During my journey to Ingolstadt, I had enough time for these and many other thoughts. The trip was long and tiring. At last I saw the town’s tall white steeple. I got down and was shown to my lonely room, where I was to spend the evening as I liked.

The next morning I delivered my letters of introduction and visited some of the main professors. By chance, or rather through the evil influence that seemed to guide me after I left my father’s house, I first went to Mr. Krempe, the professor of natural philosophy. He was an odd-looking man, but he knew his subject very well. He asked me several questions about my progress in the different parts of natural philosophy. I answered carelessly and, almost as an insult, told him that I had mainly read the works of alchemists. The professor stared at me. “Have you really wasted your time on such nonsense?” he asked.

En/Pt → I said yes. “Every minute,” said Mr. Krempe angrily, “every moment you spent on those books is completely lost. You have filled your memory with false ideas and useless names. Good God! Where have you lived, in what empty place, that no one told you these old fantasies are a thousand years old and as stale as they are ancient? I did not expect, in this wise and scientific age, to meet a follower of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. My dear sir, you must begin your studies again from the start.”

Then he stepped aside and wrote down a list of books on natural philosophy that he wanted me to get. He then sent me away, saying that early the next week he would begin a course of lectures on natural philosophy in general. He also said that M. Waldman, another professor, would lecture on chemistry on the days when he did not.

En/Pt → I went home, not disappointed, because I had already thought those writers were useless, as the professor had said. Still, I did not feel any more willing to study them again. Mr. Krempe was short and broad, with a rough voice and an unpleasant face, so he did not make me like his subject. Perhaps I have explained my early ideas in a way that is too thoughtful and connected. As a child, I was not satisfied with the results promised by modern science teachers. Because I was very young and had no guide, my ideas were confused. I went back through the history of knowledge and traded the discoveries of recent thinkers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. I also looked down on modern natural philosophy. It was different when scientists sought immortality and power; even if those goals were impossible, they were grand. But now things were different. The aim of the student seemed only to destroy the very dreams that made science interesting to me. I was being asked to give up wild visions of greatness for ordinary truths of little value.

En/Pt → During my first two or three days at Ingolstadt, I spent most of my time learning the town and meeting the main people in my new home. But when the next week began, I remembered what Mr. Krempe had told me about the lectures. I could not bear to hear that proud little man speak from a pulpit, but I did remember what he had said about M. Waldman, whom I had never seen because he had been away from town until then.

En/Pt → Out of curiosity and boredom, I went to the lecture room, and M. Waldman entered soon after. He was very different from his colleague. He seemed to be about fifty, and his face showed great kindness. A few grey hairs were at his temples, though the hair at the back of his head was still almost black. He was short, but stood very straight, and his voice was the sweetest I had ever heard. He began with the history of chemistry and the changes made by different scholars, speaking the names of the great discoverers with great feeling. Then he gave a quick look at the present state of the science and explained many basic terms. After a few simple experiments, he finished with high praise for modern chemistry, words I could never forget:

En/Pt → “The old teachers of this science,” he said, “promised impossible things and did nothing. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be changed into other metals, and that the elixir of life is only a dream. But these thinkers, whose hands seem made only for dirt and whose eyes look through the microscope or crucible, have truly done wonders. They go deep into nature and show how she works in secret. They rise to the heavens: they have discovered how blood moves through the body and what the air we breathe is like. They have gained new powers beyond measure. They can command thunder, copy an earthquake, and even make fun of the unseen world with its own shadows.”

En/Pt → These were the professor’s words, or rather the words of fate, spoken to destroy me. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were struggling with a real enemy. One by one, the keys of my being were touched. Soon my mind was full of one thought, one plan, and one purpose. So much has been done, cried the soul of Frankenstein, and I will do more, far more. I will follow the path already marked, open a new one, explore unknown powers, and reveal the deepest secrets of creation to the world.

En/Pt → I did not close my eyes that night. My inner self was in rebellion and confusion. I felt that order would come from it, but I had no power to create that order. After dawn, I slowly fell asleep. When I woke, my thoughts from the night before seemed like a dream. Only one resolve remained: I would return to my old studies and give myself to a science for which I believed I had natural talent. That same day, I visited M. Waldman. In private, he was even gentler and more pleasant than in public. In his lecture he had a certain dignity, but at home that was replaced by great warmth and kindness. I gave him nearly the same account of my former studies as I had given his colleague. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. He said these men, by their tireless work, had given modern philosophers most of the foundations of their knowledge. They had left us the easier task of giving new names and arranging the facts they had helped uncover. He added that the work of great minds, even when they are partly wrong, almost always ends by helping humankind. I listened to him, and then told him that his lecture had changed my dislike of modern chemists. I spoke carefully and respectfully, as a young man should to his teacher, and I did not show the excitement I felt inside. I asked him what books I should get.

En/Pt → “I am glad,” said M. Waldman, “to have won a student. If your effort matches your ability, I have no doubt you will succeed. Chemistry is the part of natural philosophy where the greatest progress has been made, and may still be made. That is why I study it so closely. But I have not ignored the other sciences. A man would be a poor chemist if he studied only that one subject. If you truly want to become a man of science, and not just a small experimenter, I advise you to study every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics.”

Then he took me to his laboratory and explained how his different machines worked. He told me what I should buy, and he promised that I could use his own equipment later, once I knew enough not to damage it. He also gave me the list of books I had asked for, and then I left.

En/Pt → So ended a day I would always remember, because it decided my future.

Chapter IV

En/Pt → From that day on, natural philosophy, especially chemistry, became almost my only work. I read eagerly the books by modern researchers, which were full of skill and careful thought. I attended lectures and got to know the scientists at the university. Even in M. Krempe I found much good sense and real knowledge, though his face and manners were unpleasant. M. Waldman became a true friend to me. He was never strict or stubborn. He taught with honesty and kindness, and he never seemed proud or pedantic. In many ways he made the road of learning easier for me and made difficult subjects clear. At first my study was uneven and uncertain, but it grew stronger as I went on. Soon my desire was so great that I often stayed in my laboratory until morning light made the stars disappear.

En/Pt → Because I worked so hard, I made quick progress. My enthusiasm surprised the students, and my skill surprised the teachers. Professor Krempe often asked me with a sly smile how Cornelius Agrippa was going, while M. Waldman was truly happy about my success. Two years passed like this, and I did not visit Geneva. I put all my heart into the discoveries I hoped to make. Only people who have felt this can understand the power of science. In other studies, you can only follow the path others have already taken, and there is nothing new left to learn. But science always offers new discoveries and new wonder. A person of ordinary ability who studies one subject carefully will surely become very skilled in it. I kept seeking one goal, and because of that I improved so fast that after two years I had made some discoveries in improving chemical instruments. These brought me great respect and admiration at the university. By then I knew the theory and practice of natural philosophy as well as any lessons from the professors at Ingolstadt could teach me. Since staying there could no longer help me improve, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, but then something happened that made me remain longer.

En/Pt → One thing that especially caught my attention was the structure of the human body, and of any living animal. I often asked myself where life came from. It was a bold question, and people have always thought it a mystery. Yet we are close to learning many things if fear or carelessness does not stop us. I thought about this and decided to study more about natural philosophy, especially physiology. Without a strong and almost unnatural excitement, this study would have been very hard for me. To understand life, we must first study death. I learned anatomy, but that was not enough. I also had to watch the natural decay of the human body. My father had taken great care to protect my mind from supernatural fears. I did not fear ghost stories, spirits, or darkness. A churchyard was only a place where dead bodies lay, bodies that had once been beautiful and strong but were now food for worms. Now I had to study how decay begins and grows, and I spent days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. I looked at things that are very upsetting to human feelings. I saw how the beautiful human body becomes weak and ruined, how death follows life, and how worms take what was once eye and brain. I studied every small cause and change, until suddenly a bright and wonderful, yet simple, idea came to me. It amazed me that among so many great men who had studied the same subject, I alone had found this astonishing secret.

En/Pt → Remember, I am not telling the dream of a madman. What I say is as true as the sun shining in the sky. A miracle may have helped, but the steps of my discovery were clear and likely. After days and nights of extreme work and tiredness, I discovered the cause of life and birth. More than that, I became able to give life to dead matter.

At first I was amazed, but soon that feeling turned into joy and excitement. After so much painful work, reaching the top of my desire was a great reward. Yet the discovery was so huge that I forgot the many steps that led me there, and I saw only the result. What the wisest men had searched for since the beginning of the world was now in my hands. It did not appear like magic all at once. What I had learned was enough to guide my efforts when I turned them toward my goal, not enough to show the finished result. I was like the Arabian who was buried with the dead and found a way back to life, helped only by one weak and almost useless light.

En/Pt → I can see from your eagerness and the wonder in your eyes that you want to know the secret I learned. I cannot tell it now. Listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will understand why I keep it back. I do not want to lead you, as I was once led, into destruction and certain misery. Learn from me, if not from my advice, then at least from my example, how dangerous knowledge can be. A person is happier if he thinks his small town is the whole world than if he tries to become greater than his nature allows.

En/Pt → When I found such amazing power in my hands, I hesitated for a long time about how to use it. Even though I could give life, it was still incredibly hard work to prepare a body with its many fibres, muscles, and veins. At first I wondered whether I should create a being like myself or a simpler one, but my first success made me believe I could give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as a human being. The materials I had then were hardly enough for such a difficult task, but I believed I would finally succeed. I expected many failures. My work might be blocked again and again, and in the end it might still be imperfect. But I also knew that science and machines improve every day, so I hoped my work would at least help future success. I did not think the size and difficulty of my plan meant it could not be done. With these feelings, I began to create a human being. Because the tiny parts slowed me down so much, I decided, against my first plan, to make the being very large, about eight feet tall and in proportion. After this decision, and after several months of collecting and arranging my materials, I began.

En/Pt → No one can imagine the many feelings that drove me forward like a hurricane in the first joy of success. Life and death seemed like limits I could break through, and I thought I could send a flood of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator. Many good and happy beings would owe their lives to me. No father could earn a child’s gratitude as fully as I would deserve theirs. As I thought this over, I believed that if I could give life to dead matter, I might one day, even if it seemed impossible now, restore life to a body that death had already sent toward decay.

En/Pt → These thoughts kept me going as I worked with constant energy. Study had made my face pale, and staying indoors had made my body thin. Sometimes I came very close to success and then failed, but I still held on to hope that the next day or even the next hour might bring it. Hope was the secret I lived for. The moon watched my late-night work as I searched nature’s hidden places without rest. Who can imagine the horror of my secret labor, as I worked in the damp graveyard air or forced a living animal to give life to dead clay? Even now I tremble and feel sick when I remember it. But then a strong, almost mad force pushed me on. I seemed to lose all other feelings and thoughts except this one aim. It was only a passing state, and when it ended I felt the pain even more strongly. I collected bones from charnel-houses and used my hands to uncover the terrible secrets of the human body. In a lonely room at the top of the house, far from the other rooms, I kept my dirty workshop. My eyes hurt as I watched every detail of my work. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse gave me many materials. Often my human feelings made me hate what I was doing, yet my growing eagerness drove me on until my work was nearly finished.

En/Pt → The summer months passed while I was fully absorbed in this one task. It was a beautiful season. The fields gave a rich harvest, and the vines produced a wonderful crop of grapes. But I could not enjoy nature’s beauty. The same feelings that made me ignore the world around me also made me forget my friends, who were far away and whom I had not seen for a long time. I knew my silence worried them, and I remembered my father’s words: “I know that when you are pleased with yourself, you will think of us with love, and we shall hear from you regularly. You must forgive me if I think that any break in your letters means you are neglecting your other duties too.”

So I knew what my father must be feeling. But I could not turn my mind away from my work, which was unpleasant in itself but had a powerful hold on my imagination. I wanted to put off everything about love and family until the great task, which had taken over all my habits and thoughts, was complete.

En/Pt → At that time I thought my father would be unfair if he blamed me for vice or bad character. But now I believe he was right to think I was not fully free from blame. A person should keep a calm and peaceful mind and should not let passion or short-lived desire disturb that peace. I do not think the search for knowledge is an exception. If the study you follow weakens your love for others and destroys your enjoyment of simple pleasures, then that study is truly wrong for the human mind. If people always followed this rule and never let any goal disturb the peace of family life, Greece would not have been enslaved, Caesar would have spared his country, America would have been discovered more slowly, and the empires of Mexico and Peru would not have been destroyed.

But I forget that I am giving moral lessons at the most interesting part of my story, and your looks remind me to go on.

En/Pt → My father did not blame me in his letters. He only asked more carefully than before what I was doing. Winter, spring, and summer passed while I worked. I did not even watch the flowers or the leaves grow, though I had always loved them. I was so focused on my work. By the time the leaves of that year had died, my work was almost finished. Each day showed me more clearly that I had done well. But my excitement was mixed with fear. I looked more like a person forced to work in mines or some unhealthy job than an artist doing what he loved. Every night I had a low fever, and I became painfully nervous. The fall of a leaf frightened me, and I avoided other people as if I had done something wrong. Sometimes I was shocked by how badly I had become. Only my strong purpose kept me going. Soon my work would end, and I believed that exercise and fun would then drive away the first signs of illness. I promised myself both when my creation was complete.

Chapter V

En/Pt → It was on a dark November night that I saw my hard work finished. With fear almost like pain, I placed the tools of life around me, so I could give life to the lifeless thing at my feet. It was already one in the morning. The rain hit the windows sadly, and my candle was almost gone, when, in the weak light, I saw the creature’s dull yellow eye open. It breathed hard, and a violent movement shook its limbs.

How can I describe my feelings at this terrible moment, or describe the creature I had worked so long and carefully to make? His limbs were well shaped, and I had chosen his face to be beautiful. Beautiful! Great God! His yellow skin barely covered the muscles and arteries beneath. His hair was shiny black and long. His teeth were white like pearls. But these good features only made the ugly contrast stronger with his watery eyes, which looked almost the same color as the dull white eye sockets, his wrinkled face, and his straight black lips.

En/Pt → Life is not as changeable as human feelings. I had worked hard for nearly two years just to put life into a body that had none. For this, I had given up rest and health. I had wanted it with a passion greater than was wise. But now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream disappeared, and my heart was filled with horror and disgust. I could not bear the sight of what I had made, so I ran out of the room. I walked up and down my bedroom for a long time, unable to calm my mind enough to sleep. At last I became tired, and I threw myself on the bed with my clothes on, trying to forget for a while. But it was useless. I did sleep, but terrible dreams disturbed me. I thought I saw Elizabeth, young and healthy, walking in the streets of Ingolstadt. Happy and surprised, I hugged her. But when I kissed her lips, they turned the color of death. Her face seemed to change, and I thought I was holding the body of my dead mother in my arms. A shroud covered her, and I saw worms in the folds of the cloth. I woke in horror. Cold sweat covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and my whole body shook. Then, in the pale yellow moonlight coming through the shutters, I saw the wretch - the miserable monster I had created. He held back the bed curtain, and his eyes, if they could be called eyes, were fixed on me. His jaw opened, and he made unclear sounds while a grin twisted his cheeks. He may have spoken, but I did not hear. One hand reached out as if to stop me, but I escaped and rushed downstairs. I hid in the courtyard of the house where I lived and spent the rest of the night walking back and forth in great fear, listening closely and fearing every sound, as if it might warn me that the evil corpse I had wrongly given life was coming.

En/Pt → No mortal could bear the horror of that face. A mummy given life again could not be more horrible than that wretch. I had looked at him before he was finished, and he was ugly then. But when those muscles and joints could move, he became something that even Dante could not have imagined.

I spent the night in misery. At times my pulse beat so fast and hard that I could feel every artery pounding. At other times I nearly fell to the ground from weakness and exhaustion. Along with this horror, I felt deep disappointment. The dreams that had fed me and given me comfort for so long had become a hell to me. And the change was so fast, so complete!

En/Pt → At last a dark, wet morning came and showed my sleepless, aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, with its white tower and clock showing six o'clock. The porter opened the gate of the courtyard where I had found shelter that night, and I went out into the streets. I walked quickly, as if I wanted to escape the wretch whom I feared I would see around every corner. I did not dare return to my room, but felt driven to keep going, though I was soaked by the rain falling from the black, cold sky.

I kept walking like this for some time, trying to ease the burden on my mind by using my body. I went through the streets without really knowing where I was or what I was doing. My heart beat fast with fear, and I hurried on with uneven steps, not daring to look around me:

En/Pt → “Like one who, on a lonely road, Doth walk in fear and dread, And, having once turned round, walks on, And turns no more his head; Because he knows a frightful fiend Doth close behind him tread.”1

As I went on, I soon came opposite the inn where the different carriages usually stopped. I stopped there, I did not know why. For some minutes I stood still and looked at a coach coming toward me from the other end of the street. As it came nearer, I saw it was the Swiss diligence. It stopped where I was standing, and when the door opened, I saw Henry Clerval. When he saw me, he jumped out at once. “My dear Frankenstein,” he cried, “how happy I am to see you! How lucky that you should be here just as I am getting out!”

En/Pt → Seeing Clerval made me very happy. His arrival made me think of my father, Elizabeth, and all the dear scenes of home. I took his hand and, at once, forgot my fear and misery. For the first time in many months, I felt calm and truly happy. I welcomed him warmly, and we walked toward my college. Clerval talked for some time about our friends and about his own good luck in being allowed to come to Ingolstadt. He said it had been hard to convince his father that useful knowledge was not only bookkeeping. In the end, though, his father’s love for him was stronger than his dislike of learning, and he let him come on this journey of discovery to the land of knowledge.

“It makes me very happy to see you. But tell me, how did you leave my father, my brothers, and Elizabeth?”

En/Pt → “They are very well and very happy, but they do worry a little because they hear from you so rarely. I am going to scold you about that myself. But, my dear Frankenstein,” he said, stopping and looking closely at me, “I did not notice before how ill you look. You are so thin and pale. You look as if you have not slept for several nights.”

“You are right. I have lately been so deeply busy with one task that I have not let myself rest enough, as you can see. But I hope, and truly hope, that all these tasks are now over, and that I am finally free.”

En/Pt → I trembled badly. I could not bear to think about the events of the night before, much less speak about them. I walked quickly, and soon we reached my college. Then I thought, with a shiver, that the creature I had left in my room might still be there, alive and moving around. I was afraid to see the monster, but I was even more afraid that Henry should see him. So I asked Henry to wait a few minutes at the bottom of the stairs, and I ran up to my room. My hand was already on the door lock before I remembered myself. Then I stopped, and cold fear came over me. I threw the door open hard, as children do when they expect a ghost to be waiting for them. But nothing was there. I went in fearfully. The room was empty, and my bedroom was free of its terrible visitor. I could hardly believe such good fortune. But when I was sure my enemy had really gone, I clapped my hands with joy and ran back to Clerval.

En/Pt → We went up to my room, and the servant soon brought breakfast. But I could not calm myself. It was not only joy that filled me. My body felt strange and overly sensitive, and my pulse beat fast. I could not stay still for even one moment. I jumped over chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed out loud. At first Clerval thought my strange excitement was only because he had arrived. But when he looked more closely, he saw a wild look in my eyes that he could not understand. My loud, uncontrolled, and empty laughter frightened and surprised him.

“My dear Victor,” he cried, “what in God’s name is wrong? Do not laugh like that. How ill you are! What is causing all this?”

“Do not ask me,” I cried, covering my eyes, because I thought I saw the awful ghost glide into the room. “He can tell you. Oh, save me! Save me!” I thought the monster had grabbed me. I fought wildly, and then fell down in a fit.

En/Pt → Poor Clerval! How must he have felt? A meeting he had looked forward to with so much joy had turned into sadness. But I did not see his pain, because I was unconscious, and I did not come back to my senses for a very long time.

This began a nervous fever that kept me in bed for several months. During all that time, Henry was my only nurse. I later learned that he hid how serious my illness was from my father and Elizabeth. My father was too old for such a long journey, and Elizabeth would have been deeply upset. Henry knew I could not have had a kinder nurse, and he hoped I would recover. He believed he was helping them in the best way possible.

Original English Text

Chapter I

Chapter II

Chapter III

Chapter IV

Chapter V

Contents

Chapter I

Português → I am by birth a Genevese; and my family is one of the most distinguished of that republic. My ancestors had been for many years counsellors and syndics; and my father had filled several public situations with honour and reputation. He was respected by all who knew him, for his integrity and indefatigable attention to public business. He passed his younger days perpetually occupied by the affairs of his country; a variety of circumstances had prevented his marrying early, nor was it until the decline of life that he became a husband and the father of a family.

Português → As the circumstances of his marriage illustrate his character, I cannot refrain from relating them. One of his most intimate friends was a merchant, who, from a flourishing state, fell, through numerous mischances, into poverty. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Having paid his debts, therefore, in the most honourable manner, he retreated with his daughter to the town of Lucerne, where he lived unknown and in wretchedness. My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances. He bitterly deplored the false pride which led his friend to a conduct so little worthy of the affection that united them. He lost no time in endeavouring to seek him out, with the hope of persuading him to begin the world again through his credit and assistance.

Português → Beaufort had taken effectual measures to conceal himself; and it was ten months before my father discovered his abode. Overjoyed at this discovery, he hastened to the house, which was situated in a mean street, near the Reuss. But when he entered, misery and despair alone welcomed him. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. The interval was, consequently, spent in inaction; his grief only became more deep and rankling, when he had leisure for reflection; and at length it took so fast hold of his mind, that at the end of three months he lay on a bed of sickness, incapable of any exertion.

His daughter attended him with the greatest tenderness; but she saw with despair that their little fund was rapidly decreasing, and that there was no other prospect of support. But Caroline Beaufort possessed a mind of an uncommon mould; and her courage rose to support her in her adversity. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life.

Português → Several months passed in this manner. Her father grew worse; her time was more entirely occupied in attending him; her means of subsistence decreased; and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her an orphan and a beggar. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. He came like a protecting spirit to the poor girl, who committed herself to his care; and after the interment of his friend, he conducted her to Geneva, and placed her under the protection of a relation. Two years after this event Caroline became his wife.

Português → There was a considerable difference between the ages of my parents, but this circumstance seemed to unite them only closer in bonds of devoted affection. There was a sense of justice in my father’s upright mind, which rendered it necessary that he should approve highly to love strongly. Perhaps during former years he had suffered from the late-discovered unworthiness of one beloved, and so was disposed to set a greater value on tried worth. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Everything was made to yield to her wishes and her convenience. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Her health, and even the tranquillity of her hitherto constant spirit, had been shaken by what she had gone through. During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame.

Português → From Italy they visited Germany and France. I, their eldest child, was born at Naples, and as an infant accompanied them in their rambles. I remained for several years their only child. Much as they were attached to each other, they seemed to draw inexhaustible stores of affection from a very mine of love to bestow them upon me. My mother’s tender caresses, and my father’s smile of benevolent pleasure while regarding me, are my first recollections. I was their plaything and their idol, and something better - their child, the innocent and helpless creature bestowed on them by Heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery, according as they fulfilled their duties towards me. With this deep consciousness of what they owed towards the being to which they had given life, added to the active spirit of tenderness that animated both, it may be imagined that while during every hour of my infant life I received a lesson of patience, of charity, and of self-control, I was so guided by a silken cord, that all seemed but one train of enjoyment to me.

Português → For a long time I was their only care. My mother had much desired to have a daughter, but I continued their single offspring. When I was about five years old, while making an excursion beyond the frontiers of Italy, they passed a week on the shores of the Lake of Como. Their benevolent disposition often made them enter the cottages of the poor. This, to my mother, was more than a duty; it was a necessity, a passion - remembering what she had suffered, and how she had been relieved - for her to act in her turn the guardian angel to the afflicted. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. One day, when my father had gone by himself to Milan, my mother, accompanied by me, visited this abode. She found a peasant and his wife, hard working, bent down by care and labour, distributing a scanty meal to five hungry babes. Among these there was one which attracted my mother far above all the rest. She appeared of a different stock. The four others were dark-eyed, hardy little vagrants; this child was thin, and very fair. Her hair was the brightest living gold, and, despite the poverty of her clothing, seemed to set a crown of distinction on her head. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features.

Português → The peasant woman, perceiving that my mother fixed eyes of wonder and admiration on this lovely girl, eagerly communicated her history. She was not her child, but the daughter of a Milanese nobleman. Her mother was a German, and had died on giving her birth. The infant had been placed with these good people to nurse: they were better off then. They had not been long married, and their eldest child was but just born. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. He became the victim of its weakness. Whether he had died, or still lingered in the dungeons of Austria, was not known. His property was confiscated, his child became an orphan and a beggar. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles.

Português → When my father returned from Milan, he found playing with me in the hall of our villa, a child fairer than pictured cherub - a creature who seemed to shed radiance from her looks, and whose form and motions were lighter than the chamois of the hills. The apparition was soon explained. With his permission my mother prevailed on her rustic guardians to yield their charge to her. They were fond of the sweet orphan. Her presence had seemed a blessing to them; but it would be unfair to her to keep her in poverty and want, when Providence afforded her such powerful protection. They consulted their village priest, and the result was, that Elizabeth Lavenza became the inmate of my parents’ house - my more than sister - the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures.

Português → Everyone loved Elizabeth. The passionate and almost reverential attachment with which all regarded her became, while I shared it, my pride and my delight. On the evening previous to her being brought to my home, my mother had said playfully, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” And when, on the morrow, she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I, with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine - mine to protect, love, and cherish. All praises bestowed on her, I received as made to a possession of my own. We called each other familiarly by the name of cousin. No word, no expression could body forth the kind of relation in which she stood to me - my more than sister, since till death she was to be mine only.

Chapter II

Português → We were brought up together; there was not quite a year difference in our ages. I need not say that we were strangers to any species of disunion or dispute. Harmony was the soul of our companionship, and the diversity and contrast that subsisted in our characters drew us nearer together. Elizabeth was of a calmer and more concentrated disposition; but, with all my ardour, I was capable of a more intense application, and was more deeply smitten with the thirst for knowledge. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. While my companion contemplated with a serious and satisfied spirit the magnificent appearances of things, I delighted in investigating their causes. The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember.

Português → On the birth of a second son, my junior by seven years, my parents gave up entirely their wandering life, and fixed themselves in their native country. We possessed a house in Geneva, and a campagne on Bellerive, the eastern shore of the lake, at the distance of rather more than a league from the city. We resided principally in the latter, and the lives of my parents were passed in considerable seclusion. It was my temper to avoid a crowd, and to attach myself fervently to a few. I was indifferent, therefore, to my schoolfellows in general; but I united myself in the bonds of the closest friendship to one among them. Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant of Geneva. He was a boy of singular talent and fancy. He loved enterprise, hardship, and even danger, for its own sake. He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance. He composed heroic songs, and began to write many a tale of enchantment and knightly adventure. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels.

Português → No human being could have passed a happier childhood than myself. My parents were possessed by the very spirit of kindness and indulgence. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love.

My temper was sometimes violent, and my passions vehement; but by some law in my temperature they were turned, not towards childish pursuits, but to an eager desire to learn, and not to learn all things indiscriminately. I confess that neither the structure of languages, nor the code of governments, nor the politics of various states, possessed attractions for me. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things, or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my enquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or, in its highest sense, the physical secrets of the world.

Português → Meanwhile Clerval occupied himself, so to speak, with the moral relations of things. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home. Her sympathy was ours; her smile, her soft voice, the sweet glance of her celestial eyes, were ever there to bless and animate us. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition.

Português → I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys.

Português → Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate; I desire, therefore, in this narration, to state those facts which led to my predilection for that science. When I was thirteen years of age, we all went on a party of pleasure to the baths near Thonon: the inclemency of the weather obliged us to remain a day confined to the inn. In this house I chanced to find a volume of the works of Cornelius Agrippa. I opened it with apathy; the theory which he attempts to demonstrate, and the wonderful facts which he relates, soon changed this feeling into enthusiasm. A new light seemed to dawn upon my mind; and, bounding with joy, I communicated my discovery to my father. My father looked carelessly at the titlepage of my book, and said, “Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! My dear Victor, do not waste your time upon this; it is sad trash.”

Português → If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. It is even possible, that the train of my ideas would never have received the fatal impulse that led to my ruin. But the cursory glance my father had taken of my volume by no means assured me that he was acquainted with its contents; and I continued to read with the greatest avidity.

Português → When I returned home, my first care was to procure the whole works of this author, and afterwards of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. I read and studied the wild fancies of these writers with delight; they appeared to me treasures known to few beside myself. I have described myself as always having been imbued with a fervent longing to penetrate the secrets of nature. In spite of the intense labour and wonderful discoveries of modern philosophers, I always came from my studies discontented and unsatisfied. Sir Isaac Newton is said to have avowed that he felt like a child picking up shells beside the great and unexplored ocean of truth. Those of his successors in each branch of natural philosophy with whom I was acquainted, appeared even to my boy’s apprehensions, as tyros engaged in the same pursuit.

Português → The untaught peasant beheld the elements around him, and was acquainted with their practical uses. The most learned philosopher knew little more. He had partially unveiled the face of Nature, but her immortal lineaments were still a wonder and a mystery. He might dissect, anatomise, and give names; but, not to speak of a final cause, causes in their secondary and tertiary grades were utterly unknown to him. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined.

Português → But here were books, and here were men who had penetrated deeper and knew more. I took their word for all that they averred, and I became their disciple. It may appear strange that such should arise in the eighteenth century; but while I followed the routine of education in the schools of Geneva, I was, to a great degree, self taught with regard to my favourite studies. My father was not scientific, and I was left to struggle with a child’s blindness, added to a student’s thirst for knowledge. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend the discovery, if I could banish disease from the human frame, and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death!

Português → Nor were these my only visions. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas.

Português → When I was about fifteen years old we had retired to our house near Bellerive, when we witnessed a most violent and terrible thunderstorm. It advanced from behind the mountains of Jura; and the thunder burst at once with frightful loudness from various quarters of the heavens. I remained, while the storm lasted, watching its progress with curiosity and delight. As I stood at the door, on a sudden I beheld a stream of fire issue from an old and beautiful oak, which stood about twenty yards from our house; and so soon as the dazzling light vanished, the oak had disappeared, and nothing remained but a blasted stump. When we visited it the next morning, we found the tree shattered in a singular manner. It was not splintered by the shock, but entirely reduced to thin ribbons of wood. I never beheld anything so utterly destroyed.

Português → Before this I was not unacquainted with the more obvious laws of electricity. On this occasion a man of great research in natural philosophy was with us, and, excited by this catastrophe, he entered on the explanation of a theory which he had formed on the subject of electricity and galvanism, which was at once new and astonishing to me. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. It seemed to me as if nothing would or could ever be known. All that had so long engaged my attention suddenly grew despicable. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. In this mood of mind I betook myself to the mathematics, and the branches of study appertaining to that science, as being built upon secure foundations, and so worthy of my consideration.

Português → Thus strangely are our souls constructed, and by such slight ligaments are we bound to prosperity or ruin. When I look back, it seems to me as if this almost miraculous change of inclination and will was the immediate suggestion of the guardian angel of my life - the last effort made by the spirit of preservation to avert the storm that was even then hanging in the stars, and ready to envelope me. Her victory was announced by an unusual tranquillity and gladness of soul, which followed the relinquishing of my ancient and latterly tormenting studies. It was thus that I was to be taught to associate evil with their prosecution, happiness with their disregard.

It was a strong effort of the spirit of good; but it was ineffectual. Destiny was too potent, and her immutable laws had decreed my utter and terrible destruction.

Chapter III

Português → When I had attained the age of seventeen, my parents resolved that I should become a student at the university of Ingolstadt. I had hitherto attended the schools of Geneva; but my father thought it necessary, for the completion of my education, that I should be made acquainted with other customs than those of my native country. My departure was therefore fixed at an early date; but, before the day resolved upon could arrive, the first misfortune of my life occurred - an omen, as it were, of my future misery.

Português → Elizabeth had caught the scarlet fever; her illness was severe, and she was in the greatest danger. During her illness, many arguments had been urged to persuade my mother to refrain from attending upon her. She had, at first, yielded to our entreaties; but when she heard that the life of her favourite was menaced, she could no longer control her anxiety. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. On the third day my mother sickened; her fever was accompanied by the most alarming symptoms, and the looks of her medical attendants prognosticated the worst event. On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. She joined the hands of Elizabeth and myself: - “My children,” she said, “my firmest hopes of future happiness were placed on the prospect of your union. This expectation will now be the consolation of your father. Elizabeth, my love, you must supply my place to my younger children. Alas! I regret that I am taken from you; and, happy and beloved as I have been, is it not hard to quit you all? But these are not thoughts befitting me; I will endeavour to resign myself cheerfully to death, and will indulge a hope of meeting you in another world.”

Português → She died calmly; and her countenance expressed affection even in death. I need not describe the feelings of those whose dearest ties are rent by that most irreparable evil; the void that presents itself to the soul; and the despair that is exhibited on the countenance. It is so long before the mind can persuade itself that she, whom we saw every day, and whose very existence appeared a part of our own, can have departed forever - that the brightness of a beloved eye can have been extinguished, and the sound of a voice so familiar, and dear to the ear, can be hushed, never more to be heard. These are the reflections of the first days; but when the lapse of time proves the reality of the evil, then the actual bitterness of grief commences. Yet from whom has not that rude hand rent away some dear connection? and why should I describe a sorrow which all have felt, and must feel? The time at length arrives, when grief is rather an indulgence than a necessity; and the smile that plays upon the lips, although it may be deemed a sacrilege, is not banished. My mother was dead, but we had still duties which we ought to perform; we must continue our course with the rest, and learn to think ourselves fortunate, whilst one remains whom the spoiler has not seized.

Português → My departure for Ingolstadt, which had been deferred by these events, was now again determined upon. I obtained from my father a respite of some weeks. It appeared to me sacrilege so soon to leave the repose, akin to death, of the house of mourning, and to rush into the thick of life. I was new to sorrow, but it did not the less alarm me. I was unwilling to quit the sight of those that remained to me; and, above all, I desired to see my sweet Elizabeth in some degree consoled.

She indeed veiled her grief, and strove to act the comforter to us all. She looked steadily on life, and assumed its duties with courage and zeal. She devoted herself to those whom she had been taught to call her uncle and cousins. Never was she so enchanting as at this time, when she recalled the sunshine of her smiles and spent them upon us. She forgot even her own regret in her endeavours to make us forget.

Português → The day of my departure at length arrived. Clerval spent the last evening with us. He had endeavoured to persuade his father to permit him to accompany me, and to become my fellow student; but in vain. His father was a narrow-minded trader, and saw idleness and ruin in the aspirations and ambition of his son. Henry deeply felt the misfortune of being debarred from a liberal education. He said little; but when he spoke, I read in his kindling eye and in his animated glance a restrained but firm resolve, not to be chained to the miserable details of commerce.

We sat late. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend.

Português → I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections. I, who had ever been surrounded by amiable companions, continually engaged in endeavouring to bestow mutual pleasure, I was now alone. In the university, whither I was going, I must form my own friends, and be my own protector. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; these were “old familiar faces;” but I believed myself totally unfitted for the company of strangers. Such were my reflections as I commenced my journey; but as I proceeded, my spirits and hopes rose. I ardently desired the acquisition of knowledge. I had often, when at home, thought it hard to remain during my youth cooped up in one place, and had longed to enter the world, and take my station among other human beings. Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have been folly to repent.

Português → I had sufficient leisure for these and many other reflections during my journey to Ingolstadt, which was long and fatiguing. At length the high white steeple of the town met my eyes. I alighted, and was conducted to my solitary apartment, to spend the evening as I pleased.

The next morning I delivered my letters of introduction, and paid a visit to some of the principal professors. Chance - or rather the evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant steps from my father’s door - led me first to Mr. Krempe, professor of natural philosophy. He was an uncouth man, but deeply imbued in the secrets of his science. He asked me several questions concerning my progress in the different branches of science appertaining to natural philosophy. I replied carelessly; and, partly in contempt, mentioned the names of my alchemists as the principal authors I had studied. The professor stared: “Have you,” he said, “really spent your time in studying such nonsense?”

Português → I replied in the affirmative. “Every minute,” continued Mr. Krempe with warmth, “every instant that you have wasted on those books is utterly and entirely lost. You have burdened your memory with exploded systems and useless names. Good God! in what desert land have you lived, where no one was kind enough to inform you that these fancies, which you have so greedily imbibed, are a thousand years old, and as musty as they are ancient? I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. My dear sir, you must begin your studies entirely anew.”

So saying, he stepped aside, and wrote down a list of several books treating of natural philosophy, which he desired me to procure; and dismissed me, after mentioning that in the beginning of the following week he intended to commence a course of lectures upon natural philosophy in its general relations, and that M. Waldman, a fellow-professor, would lecture upon chemistry the alternate days that he omitted.

Português → I returned home, not disappointed, for I have said that I had long considered those authors useless whom the professor reprobated; but I returned, not at all the more inclined to recur to these studies in any shape. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. In rather a too philosophical and connected a strain, perhaps, I have given an account of the conclusions I had come to concerning them in my early years. As a child, I had not been content with the results promised by the modern professors of natural science. With a confusion of ideas only to be accounted for by my extreme youth, and my want of a guide on such matters, I had retrod the steps of knowledge along the paths of time, and exchanged the discoveries of recent enquirers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Besides, I had a contempt for the uses of modern natural philosophy. It was very different, when the masters of the science sought immortality and power; such views, although futile, were grand: but now the scene was changed. The ambition of the enquirer seemed to limit itself to the annihilation of those visions on which my interest in science was chiefly founded. I was required to exchange chimeras of boundless grandeur for realities of little worth.

Português → Such were my reflections during the first two or three days of my residence at Ingolstadt, which were chiefly spent in becoming acquainted with the localities, and the principal residents in my new abode. But as the ensuing week commenced, I thought of the information which Mr. Krempe had given me concerning the lectures. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town.

Português → Partly from curiosity, and partly from idleness, I went into the lecturing room, which M. Waldman entered shortly after. This professor was very unlike his colleague. He appeared about fifty years of age, but with an aspect expressive of the greatest benevolence; a few grey hairs covered his temples, but those at the back of his head were nearly black. His person was short, but remarkably erect; and his voice the sweetest I had ever heard. He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. He then took a cursory view of the present state of the science, and explained many of its elementary terms. After having made a few preparatory experiments, he concluded with a panegyric upon modern chemistry, the terms of which I shall never forget: -

Português → “The ancient teachers of this science,” said he, “promised impossibilities, and performed nothing. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted, and that the elixir of life is a chimera. But these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. They penetrate into the recesses of nature, and show how she works in her hiding places. They ascend into the heavens: they have discovered how the blood circulates, and the nature of the air we breathe. They have acquired new and almost unlimited powers; they can command the thunders of heaven, mimic the earthquake, and even mock the invisible world with its own shadows.”

Português → Such were the professor’s words - rather let me say such the words of fate, enounced to destroy me. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were grappling with a palpable enemy; one by one the various keys were touched which formed the mechanism of my being: chord after chord was sounded, and soon my mind was filled with one thought, one conception, one purpose. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation.

Português → I closed not my eyes that night. My internal being was in a state of insurrection and turmoil; I felt that order would thence arise, but I had no power to produce it. By degrees, after the morning’s dawn, sleep came. I awoke, and my yesternight’s thoughts were as a dream. There only remained a resolution to return to my ancient studies, and to devote myself to a science for which I believed myself to possess a natural talent. On the same day, I paid M. Waldman a visit. His manners in private were even more mild and attractive than in public; for there was a certain dignity in his mien during his lecture, which in his own house was replaced by the greatest affability and kindness. I gave him pretty nearly the same account of my former pursuits as I had given to his fellow-professor. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. He said, that “these were men to whose indefatigable zeal modern philosophers were indebted for most of the foundations of their knowledge. They had left to us, as an easier task, to give new names, and arrange in connected classifications, the facts which they in a great degree had been the instruments of bringing to light. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. I requested his advice concerning the books I ought to procure.

Português → “I am happy,” said M. Waldman, “to have gained a disciple; and if your application equals your ability, I have no doubt of your success. Chemistry is that branch of natural philosophy in which the greatest improvements have been and may be made: it is on that account that I have made it my peculiar study; but at the same time I have not neglected the other branches of science. A man would make but a very sorry chemist if he attended to that department of human knowledge alone. If your wish is to become really a man of science, and not merely a petty experimentalist, I should advise you to apply to every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics.”

He then took me into his laboratory, and explained to me the uses of his various machines; instructing me as to what I ought to procure, and promising me the use of his own when I should have advanced far enough in the science not to derange their mechanism. He also gave me the list of books which I had requested; and I took my leave.

Português → Thus ended a day memorable to me: it decided my future destiny.

Chapter IV

Português → From this day natural philosophy, and particularly chemistry, in the most comprehensive sense of the term, became nearly my sole occupation. I read with ardour those works, so full of genius and discrimination, which modern enquirers have written on these subjects. I attended the lectures, and cultivated the acquaintance, of the men of science of the university; and I found even in M. Krempe a great deal of sound sense and real information, combined, it is true, with a repulsive physiognomy and manners, but not on that account the less valuable. In M. Waldman I found a true friend. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. My application was at first fluctuating and uncertain; it gained strength as I proceeded, and soon became so ardent and eager, that the stars often disappeared in the light of morning whilst I was yet engaged in my laboratory.

Português → As I applied so closely, it may be easily conceived that my progress was rapid. My ardour was indeed the astonishment of the students, and my proficiency that of the masters. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Two years passed in this manner, during which I paid no visit to Geneva, but was engaged, heart and soul, in the pursuit of some discoveries, which I hoped to make. None but those who have experienced them can conceive of the enticements of science. In other studies you go as far as others have gone before you, and there is nothing more to know; but in a scientific pursuit there is continual food for discovery and wonder. A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay.

Português → One of the phenomena which had peculiarly attracted my attention was the structure of the human frame, and, indeed, any animal endued with life. Whence, I often asked myself, did the principle of life proceed? It was a bold question, and one which has ever been considered as a mystery; yet with how many things are we upon the brink of becoming acquainted, if cowardice or carelessness did not restrain our enquiries. I revolved these circumstances in my mind, and determined thenceforth to apply myself more particularly to those branches of natural philosophy which relate to physiology. Unless I had been animated by an almost supernatural enthusiasm, my application to this study would have been irksome, and almost intolerable. To examine the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death. I became acquainted with the science of anatomy: but this was not sufficient; I must also observe the natural decay and corruption of the human body. In my education my father had taken the greatest precautions that my mind should be impressed with no supernatural horrors. I do not ever remember to have trembled at a tale of superstition, or to have feared the apparition of a spirit. Darkness had no effect upon my fancy; and a churchyard was to me merely the receptacle of bodies deprived of life, which, from being the seat of beauty and strength, had become food for the worm. Now I was led to examine the cause and progress of this decay, and forced to spend days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. My attention was fixed upon every object the most insupportable to the delicacy of the human feelings. I saw how the fine form of man was degraded and wasted; I beheld the corruption of death succeed to the blooming cheek of life; I saw how the worm inherited the wonders of the eye and brain. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret.

Português → Remember, I am not recording the vision of a madman. The sun does not more certainly shine in the heavens, than that which I now affirm is true. Some miracle might have produced it, yet the stages of the discovery were distinct and probable. After days and nights of incredible labour and fatigue, I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life; nay, more, I became myself capable of bestowing animation upon lifeless matter.

The astonishment which I had at first experienced on this discovery soon gave place to delight and rapture. After so much time spent in painful labour, to arrive at once at the summit of my desires, was the most gratifying consummation of my toils. But this discovery was so great and overwhelming, that all the steps by which I had been progressively led to it were obliterated, and I beheld only the result. What had been the study and desire of the wisest men since the creation of the world was now within my grasp. Not that, like a magic scene, it all opened upon me at once: the information I had obtained was of a nature rather to direct my endeavours so soon as I should point them towards the object of my search, than to exhibit that object already accomplished. I was like the Arabian who had been buried with the dead, and found a passage to life, aided only by one glimmering, and seemingly ineffectual, light.

Português → I see by your eagerness, and the wonder and hope which your eyes express, my friend, that you expect to be informed of the secret with which I am acquainted; that cannot be: listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will easily perceive why I am reserved upon that subject. I will not lead you on, unguarded and ardent as I then was, to your destruction and infallible misery. Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.

Português → When I found so astonishing a power placed within my hands, I hesitated a long time concerning the manner in which I should employ it. Although I possessed the capacity of bestowing animation, yet to prepare a frame for the reception of it, with all its intricacies of fibres, muscles, and veins, still remained a work of inconceivable difficulty and labour. I doubted at first whether I should attempt the creation of a being like myself, or one of simpler organization; but my imagination was too much exalted by my first success to permit me to doubt of my ability to give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as man. The materials at present within my command hardly appeared adequate to so arduous an undertaking; but I doubted not that I should ultimately succeed. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Nor could I consider the magnitude and complexity of my plan as any argument of its impracticability. It was with these feelings that I began the creation of a human being. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. After having formed this determination, and having spent some months in successfully collecting and arranging my materials, I began.

Português → No one can conceive the variety of feelings which bore me onwards, like a hurricane, in the first enthusiasm of success. Life and death appeared to me ideal bounds, which I should first break through, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me. No father could claim the gratitude of his child so completely as I should deserve theirs. Pursuing these reflections, I thought, that if I could bestow animation upon lifeless matter, I might in process of time (although I now found it impossible) renew life where death had apparently devoted the body to corruption.

Português → These thoughts supported my spirits, while I pursued my undertaking with unremitting ardour. My cheek had grown pale with study, and my person had become emaciated with confinement. Sometimes, on the very brink of certainty, I failed; yet still I clung to the hope which the next day or the next hour might realise. One secret which I alone possessed was the hope to which I had dedicated myself; and the moon gazed on my midnight labours, while, with unrelaxed and breathless eagerness, I pursued nature to her hiding-places. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? My limbs now tremble, and my eyes swim with the remembrance; but then a resistless, and almost frantic, impulse, urged me forward; I seemed to have lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit. It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. I collected bones from charnel-houses; and disturbed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame. In a solitary chamber, or rather cell, at the top of the house, and separated from all the other apartments by a gallery and staircase, I kept my workshop of filthy creation: my eyeballs were starting from their sockets in attending to the details of my employment. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion.

Português → The summer months passed while I was thus engaged, heart and soul, in one pursuit. It was a most beautiful season; never did the fields bestow a more plentiful harvest, or the vines yield a more luxuriant vintage: but my eyes were insensible to the charms of nature. And the same feelings which made me neglect the scenes around me caused me also to forget those friends who were so many miles absent, and whom I had not seen for so long a time. I knew my silence disquieted them; and I well remembered the words of my father: “I know that while you are pleased with yourself, you will think of us with affection, and we shall hear regularly from you. You must pardon me if I regard any interruption in your correspondence as a proof that your other duties are equally neglected.”

I knew well therefore what would be my father’s feelings; but I could not tear my thoughts from my employment, loathsome in itself, but which had taken an irresistible hold of my imagination. I wished, as it were, to procrastinate all that related to my feelings of affection until the great object, which swallowed up every habit of my nature, should be completed.

Português → I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. A human being in perfection ought always to preserve a calm and peaceful mind, and never to allow passion or a transitory desire to disturb his tranquillity. I do not think that the pursuit of knowledge is an exception to this rule. If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections, and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind. If this rule were always observed; if no man allowed any pursuit whatsoever to interfere with the tranquillity of his domestic affections, Greece had not been enslaved; Caesar would have spared his country; America would have been discovered more gradually; and the empires of Mexico and Peru had not been destroyed.

But I forget that I am moralising in the most interesting part of my tale; and your looks remind me to proceed.

Português → My father made no reproach in his letters, and only took notice of my silence by enquiring into my occupations more particularly than before. Winter, spring, and summer passed away during my labours; but I did not watch the blossom or the expanding leaves - sights which before always yielded me supreme delight - so deeply was I engrossed in my occupation. The leaves of that year had withered before my work drew near to a close; and now every day showed me more plainly how well I had succeeded. But my enthusiasm was checked by my anxiety, and I appeared rather like one doomed by slavery to toil in the mines, or any other unwholesome trade, than an artist occupied by his favourite employment. Every night I was oppressed by a slow fever, and I became nervous to a most painful degree; the fall of a leaf startled me, and I shunned my fellow-creatures as if I had been guilty of a crime. Sometimes I grew alarmed at the wreck I perceived that I had become; the energy of my purpose alone sustained me: my labours would soon end, and I believed that exercise and amusement would then drive away incipient disease; and I promised myself both of these when my creation should be complete.

Chapter V

Português → It was on a dreary night of November, that I beheld the accomplishment of my toils. With an anxiety that almost amounted to agony, I collected the instruments of life around me, that I might infuse a spark of being into the lifeless thing that lay at my feet. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs.

How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form? His limbs were in proportion, and I had selected his features as beautiful. Beautiful! - Great God! His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips.

Português → The different accidents of life are not so changeable as the feelings of human nature. I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart. Unable to endure the aspect of the being I had created, I rushed out of the room, and continued a long time traversing my bedchamber, unable to compose my mind to sleep. At length lassitude succeeded to the tumult I had before endured; and I threw myself on the bed in my clothes, endeavouring to seek a few moments of forgetfulness. But it was in vain: I slept, indeed, but I was disturbed by the wildest dreams. I thought I saw Elizabeth, in the bloom of health, walking in the streets of Ingolstadt. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. He held up the curtain of the bed; and his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. He might have spoken, but I did not hear; one hand was stretched out, seemingly to detain me, but I escaped, and rushed downstairs. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life.

Português → Oh! no mortal could support the horror of that countenance. A mummy again endued with animation could not be so hideous as that wretch. I had gazed on him while unfinished; he was ugly then; but when those muscles and joints were rendered capable of motion, it became a thing such as even Dante could not have conceived.

I passed the night wretchedly. Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly, that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness. Mingled with this horror, I felt the bitterness of disappointment; dreams that had been my food and pleasant rest for so long a space were now become a hell to me; and the change was so rapid, the overthrow so complete!

Português → Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. The porter opened the gates of the court, which had that night been my asylum, and I issued into the streets, pacing them with quick steps, as if I sought to avoid the wretch whom I feared every turning of the street would present to my view. I did not dare return to the apartment which I inhabited, but felt impelled to hurry on, although drenched by the rain which poured from a black and comfortless sky.

I continued walking in this manner for some time, endeavouring, by bodily exercise, to ease the load that weighed upon my mind. I traversed the streets, without any clear conception of where I was, or what I was doing. My heart palpitated in the sickness of fear; and I hurried on with irregular steps, not daring to look about me: -

Português → “Like one who, on a lonely road,Doth walk in fear and dread,And, having once turned round, walks on,And turns no more his head;Because he knows a frightful fiendDoth close behind him tread.”1

Continuing thus, I came at length opposite to the inn at which the various diligences and carriages usually stopped. Here I paused, I knew not why; but I remained some minutes with my eyes fixed on a coach that was coming towards me from the other end of the street. As it drew nearer, I observed that it was the Swiss diligence: it stopped just where I was standing; and, on the door being opened, I perceived Henry Clerval, who, on seeing me, instantly sprung out. “My dear Frankenstein,” exclaimed he, “how glad I am to see you! how fortunate that you should be here at the very moment of my alighting!”

Português → Nothing could equal my delight on seeing Clerval; his presence brought back to my thoughts my father, Elizabeth, and all those scenes of home so dear to my recollection. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy. I welcomed my friend, therefore, in the most cordial manner, and we walked towards my college. Clerval continued talking for some time about our mutual friends, and his own good fortune in being permitted to come to Ingolstadt. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.”

“It gives me the greatest delight to see you; but tell me how you left my father, brothers, and Elizabeth.”

Português → “Very well, and very happy, only a little uneasy that they hear from you so seldom. By the by, I mean to lecture you a little upon their account myself. - But, my dear Frankenstein,” continued he, stopping short, and gazing full in my face, “I did not before remark how very ill you appear; so thin and pale; you look as if you had been watching for several nights.”

“You have guessed right; I have lately been so deeply engaged in one occupation, that I have not allowed myself sufficient rest, as you see: but I hope, I sincerely hope, that all these employments are now at an end, and that I am at length free.”

Português → I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. I walked with a quick pace, and we soon arrived at my college. I then reflected, and the thought made me shiver, that the creature whom I had left in my apartment might still be there, alive, and walking about. I dreaded to behold this monster; but I feared still more that Henry should see him. Entreating him, therefore, to remain a few minutes at the bottom of the stairs, I darted up towards my own room. My hand was already on the lock of the door before I recollected myself. I then paused; and a cold shivering came over me. I threw the door forcibly open, as children are accustomed to do when they expect a spectre to stand in waiting for them on the other side; but nothing appeared. I stepped fearfully in: the apartment was empty; and my bedroom was also freed from its hideous guest. I could hardly believe that so great a good fortune could have befallen me; but when I became assured that my enemy had indeed fled, I clapped my hands for joy, and ran down to Clerval.

Português → We ascended into my room, and the servant presently brought breakfast; but I was unable to contain myself. It was not joy only that possessed me; I felt my flesh tingle with excess of sensitiveness, and my pulse beat rapidly. I was unable to remain for a single instant in the same place; I jumped over the chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed aloud. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him.

“My dear Victor,” cried he, “what, for God’s sake, is the matter? Do not laugh in that manner. How ill you are! What is the cause of all this?”

“Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. - Oh, save me! save me!” I imagined that the monster seized me; I struggled furiously, and fell down in a fit.

Português → Poor Clerval! what must have been his feelings? A meeting, which he anticipated with such joy, so strangely turned to bitterness. But I was not the witness of his grief; for I was lifeless, and did not recover my senses for a long, long time.

This was the commencement of a nervous fever, which confined me for several months. During all that time Henry was my only nurse. I afterwards learned that, knowing my father’s advanced age, and unfitness for so long a journey, and how wretched my sickness would make Elizabeth, he spared them this grief by concealing the extent of my disorder. He knew that I could not have a more kind and attentive nurse than himself; and, firm in the hope he felt of my recovery, he did not doubt that, instead of doing harm, he performed the kindest action that he could towards them.

Versão em Português B1

Capítulo I

Capítulo II

Capítulo III

Capítulo IV

Capítulo V

Contents

Capítulo I

English → Nasci em Genebra, e minha família é uma das mais respeitadas da cidade. Meus antepassados foram conselheiros e síndicos por muitos anos, e meu pai exerceu vários cargos públicos com honra. Todos que o conheciam o respeitavam, pois era honesto e trabalhava muito pelo bem público. Na juventude, ele estava sempre ocupado com os assuntos de seu país. Por muitas razões, só se casou tarde e apenas então tornou-se marido e pai.

English → O casamento de meu pai mostra seu caráter, por isso devo contar como aconteceu. Um de seus amigos mais próximos era um comerciante chamado Beaufort. Após muitos infortúnios, Beaufort perdeu a fortuna e empobreceu. Orgulhoso e obstinado, não suportava viver na pobreza no mesmo país onde fora conhecido por sua posição e luxo. Assim, depois de pagar honradamente as dívidas, foi com a filha para Lucerna e ali viveu em segredo e miséria. Meu pai amava Beaufort como a um verdadeiro amigo e entristeceu-se profundamente com sua queda. Detestava o falso orgulho que levara o amigo a uma vida tão triste. Logo procurou encontrá-lo, esperando convencê-lo a recomeçar com sua ajuda e apoio.

English → Beaufort escondera-se tão bem que meu pai levou dez meses para descobrir onde morava. Muito feliz, foi imediatamente à casa, situada numa rua pobre perto do rio Reuss. Mas, ao entrar, encontrou apenas miséria e desespero. Beaufort conservara apenas uma pequena soma de sua fortuna arruinada. Era suficiente para viver alguns meses, enquanto esperava conseguir trabalho respeitável numa casa comercial. Porém, passou esse tempo sem fazer nada. A dor se agravou com o tempo para refletir e, por fim, dominou-o a tal ponto que, após três meses, adoeceu e ficou incapaz de agir.

A filha cuidava dele com grande ternura, mas via, com medo, que o pouco dinheiro acabava depressa e que não tinham outro apoio. Ainda assim, Caroline Beaufort tinha uma mente firme. Sua coragem se elevou diante das dificuldades. Ela fazia trabalhos simples de costura e trançava palha. De várias maneiras, ganhava o suficiente para mantê-los vivos.

English → Isso continuou por vários meses. Seu pai piorou, e ela passava cada vez mais tempo cuidando dele. O dinheiro diminuía e, no décimo mês, o pai morreu em seus braços, deixando-a sozinha e pobre. Esse último golpe partiu seu coração. Ela se ajoelhou junto ao caixão de Beaufort e chorou amargamente quando meu pai entrou no quarto. Ele se aproximou da moça como um protetor, e ela confiou-se aos seus cuidados. Depois que o amigo foi enterrado, levou-a para Genebra e a deixou com uma parente. Dois anos mais tarde, Caroline tornou-se sua esposa.

English → Meus pais tinham idades muito diferentes, mas isso apenas fortaleceu o laço amoroso entre eles. Meu pai tinha um forte senso do que era certo e precisava respeitar profundamente alguém para amá-lo de verdade. Talvez tivesse sido ferido por alguém em quem confiava; por isso, passou a valorizar ainda mais a bondade comprovada. Ele demonstrava por minha mãe gratidão e reverência, não o amor fraco da velhice. Admirava suas virtudes e queria compensar os sofrimentos que ela suportara. Isso o tornava muito gentil. Tudo precisava atender aos desejos e ao conforto dela. Tentava protegê-la de toda dificuldade, como um jardineiro protege uma flor rara do mau tempo, e cercá-la de coisas que agradassem sua natureza bondosa. A saúde dela, e até seu espírito habitualmente sereno, haviam sido abalados pelo que vivera. Nos dois anos anteriores ao casamento, meu pai abandonou gradualmente os deveres públicos. Depois de casados, viajaram para a Itália, esperando que o clima quente e novas paisagens restaurassem seu corpo frágil.

English → Da Itália viajaram para a Alemanha e a França. Fui o primeiro filho e nasci em Nápoles. Ainda bebê, viajei com eles. Por vários anos, fui seu único filho. Eles se amavam profundamente, mas pareciam ter também um amor sem fim para me dar. Minhas primeiras lembranças são os abraços suaves de minha mãe e o sorriso bondoso de meu pai ao olhar para mim. Eu era seu brinquedo e tesouro, mas também mais que isso: era seu filho, dado a eles pelo Céu. Sabiam que tinham o dever de educar-me bem e que minha futura felicidade ou miséria dependeria deles. Como entendiam isso e eram ambos muito ternos, ensinaram-me diariamente paciência, bondade e autocontrole. Contudo, eu me sentia guiado por uma fita suave, e toda a minha infância pareceu cheia de felicidade.

English → Por muito tempo, fui sua única preocupação. Minha mãe desejava uma filha, mas continuei sendo filho único. Quando eu tinha cerca de cinco anos, viajaram para fora da Itália e passaram uma semana perto do lago de Como. Visitavam com frequência os casebres dos pobres, pois tinham bom coração. Para minha mãe, isso era mais que um dever: era uma necessidade profunda e uma paixão, pois se lembrava do próprio sofrimento e de como fora ajudada. Queria ser um anjo da guarda para outros que sofriam. Numa caminhada, notaram uma cabana pobre num vale, de aspecto muito triste, com muitas crianças semivestidas ao redor. Era sinal de extrema pobreza. Certo dia, enquanto meu pai fora sozinho a Milão, minha mãe levou-me à cabana. Ali encontrou um camponês e sua esposa, ambos exaustos de trabalho e preocupação, dividindo uma pequena refeição com cinco filhos famintos. Uma criança se destacava. Não parecia pertencer àquela família. As outras quatro tinham olhos escuros e aparência rude e forte, mas ela era magra e muito clara. Seus cabelos eram de ouro vivo e, embora suas roupas fossem pobres, tinha aspecto nobre. A testa era ampla e límpida, os olhos azuis brilhantes, e o rosto mostrava tanta doçura e sensibilidade que qualquer um a julgaria uma criança celestial.

English → A camponesa percebeu o espanto e a admiração de minha mãe pela linda criança e logo contou sua história. A menina não era sua filha. Era filha de um nobre de Milão. A mãe, alemã, morrera ao dar-lhe à luz. O bebê fora entregue àquele bom casal para ser criado. Naquela época, eles tinham melhores condições. Haviam se casado recentemente, e o filho mais velho acabara de nascer. O pai da menina era um daqueles italianos que ainda lembravam a antiga glória da Itália e lutavam pela liberdade de seu país. Mas tornou-se vítima da fraqueza de sua nação. Ninguém sabia se morrera ou se ainda vivia nas prisões austríacas. Seus bens foram confiscados, e a filha ficou órfã e mendiga. Ela permaneceu com os pais adotivos e cresceu no lar pobre deles, mais bela que uma rosa num jardim selvagem.

English → Quando meu pai voltou de Milão, encontrou uma criança brincando comigo no salão de nossa vila. Ela era mais bela que um anjo pintado e parecia irradiar luz. Seus movimentos eram leves como os de uma cabra-montesa. O mistério logo foi explicado. Com a permissão de meu pai, minha mãe convencera seus simples guardiões a entregá-la aos seus cuidados. Eles amavam a doce órfã, e sua presença lhes parecera uma bênção. Mas não seria correto mantê-la na pobreza quando a Providência lhe oferecia proteção tão firme. Pediram conselho ao padre da aldeia e, por fim, Elizabeth Lavenza veio viver na casa de meus pais. Ela foi mais que uma irmã para mim e tornou-se a bela e querida companheira de todos os meus trabalhos e brincadeiras.

English → Todos amavam Elizabeth. Eu me sentia orgulhoso e feliz por compartilhar esse amor. Na noite anterior à sua chegada, minha mãe disse, brincando: “Tenho um lindo presente para meu Victor; amanhã ele o receberá.” No dia seguinte, entregou-me Elizabeth como o presente prometido. Levei suas palavras muito a sério e pensei em Elizabeth como minha, alguém que eu devia proteger, amar e cuidar. Recebia cada elogio a ela como elogio a algo que me pertencia. Chamávamo-nos primos. Nenhuma palavra poderia descrever inteiramente nosso vínculo. Ela era mais que uma irmã para mim e, até a morte, seria só minha.

Capítulo II

English → Crescemos juntos, com menos de um ano de diferença entre nós. Nunca tivemos discussões sérias. A harmonia era o coração de nossa amizade, e nossos temperamentos diferentes nos aproximavam ainda mais. Elizabeth era mais calma e concentrada. Eu era mais intenso e gostava de aprender profundamente. Ela apreciava os poetas e seus mundos sonhadores. Em nossa casa suíça, as montanhas, as mudanças das estações, as tempestades e a calmaria, e o silêncio do inverno lhe davam grande alegria. Eu gostava de estudar por que as coisas aconteciam. O mundo era um mistério que eu queria compreender. A curiosidade e a alegria de aprender as leis ocultas da natureza estão entre minhas primeiras lembranças.

English → Quando meu segundo irmão nasceu, sete anos depois de mim, meus pais abandonaram a vida errante e se estabeleceram em sua terra natal. Tínhamos uma casa em Genebra e uma residência de campo em Bellerive, no lado oriental do lago, pouco mais de uma légua distante da cidade. Vivíamos principalmente na casa de campo, e meus pais levavam uma vida tranquila, afastados de muitas pessoas. Eu também gostava de evitar multidões e de dedicar toda minha lealdade a poucos amigos. Por isso, não me importava muito com a maioria dos colegas, mas me tornei muito próximo de um deles. Henry Clerval era filho de um comerciante de Genebra. Talentoso e imaginativo, amava a aventura, a dificuldade e o perigo. Lia livros de cavalaria e romances, escrevia canções heroicas e começava muitas histórias de magia e feitos valentes. Tentava fazer-nos atuar em peças e mascaradas, usando heróis de Roncesvales, a Távola Redonda do rei Artur e os cavaleiros que lutaram para libertar o Santo Sepulcro.

English → Nenhum ser humano poderia ter tido uma infância mais feliz que a minha. Meus pais eram muito bondosos e indulgentes. Sabíamos que não eram governantes cruéis decidindo nossa vida ao acaso, mas as pessoas que nos davam todas as alegrias. Quando conhecia outras famílias, via claramente como eu era afortunado, e isso tornava meu amor por meus pais ainda mais forte.

Meu temperamento às vezes era violento, e meus sentimentos, intensos. Mas essa energia não me levava a brincadeiras infantis. Em vez disso, tornou-se um forte desejo de aprender. Eu não queria aprender tudo. Não me interessavam a estrutura das línguas, os governos ou a política. O que eu queria era conhecer os segredos do céu e da terra. Queria compreender a natureza exterior das coisas, o espírito oculto da natureza e a alma misteriosa do homem. Meus estudos sempre se voltavam para os segredos físicos e filosóficos mais profundos do mundo.

English → Clerval se preocupava com o lado moral da vida. Amava o mundo público, os feitos dos heróis e as ações dos homens. Sonhava tornar-se uma das pessoas lembradas na história por sua coragem e ajuda aos outros. O espírito puro de Elizabeth brilhava em nosso lar pacífico como uma lâmpada num santuário. Sua compaixão pertencia a todos nós. Seu sorriso, sua voz suave e seus olhos luminosos sempre nos davam conforto e ânimo. Ela era um espírito vivo de amor, que acalmava e aproximava as pessoas. Eu talvez tivesse me tornado sombrio em meus estudos e rude por minha natureza intensa, mas ela estava ali para me tornar mais gentil. E Clerval, por mais nobre que fosse, tornou-se ainda mais humano e generoso porque Elizabeth lhe mostrou a verdadeira beleza da bondade e fez do bem o objetivo de sua grande ambição.

English → Sinto grande prazer em recordar minha infância, antes que a desgraça mudasse minha mente e transformasse meus sonhos esperançosos de ajudar os outros em pensamentos sombrios e egoístas. Ao contar a história de minha vida inicial, conto também os acontecimentos que lentamente me levaram à miséria posterior. Quando tento entender como começou essa paixão, vejo que ela nasceu de causas pequenas, quase esquecidas, como um rio de montanha. Mas, à medida que cresceu, tornou-se uma grande inundação que levou embora todas as minhas esperanças e alegrias.

English → A filosofia natural moldou meu destino, por isso quero explicar o que me levou a amar essa ciência. Quando tinha treze anos, fizemos uma viagem de lazer às termas perto de Thonon. O mau tempo obrigou-nos a passar um dia na hospedaria. Ali encontrei um livro de Cornelius Agrippa. Abri-o sem interesse, mas suas ideias e os fatos estranhos que narrava logo me encheram de entusiasmo. Parecia que uma nova luz entrara em minha mente. Feliz e ansioso, mostrei o livro a meu pai. Ele apenas olhou a página de rosto e disse: “Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! Meu querido Victor, não perca seu tempo com isso; é triste lixo.”

English → Se meu pai tivesse explicado que as ideias de Agrippa estavam inteiramente desacreditadas e que um sistema moderno de ciência as substituíra, eu certamente teria deixado o livro de lado. Então teria voltado aos estudos anteriores com ainda maior energia. É até possível que meus pensamentos nunca tivessem seguido o caminho que me levou à ruína. Mas meu pai apenas lançou um olhar rápido ao livro, e eu não sabia se ele o compreendia. Por isso continuei lendo com grande avidez.

English → Quando voltei para casa, primeiro obtive as obras completas desse autor e depois as de Paracelso e Alberto Magno. Li suas ideias estranhas com deleite. Para mim, eram tesouros conhecidos por poucas pessoas. Já disse que sempre tive forte desejo de entender os segredos da natureza. Mas, mesmo com o trabalho árduo e as grandes descobertas dos cientistas modernos, eu sempre terminava meus estudos infeliz e insatisfeito. Diz-se que Sir Isaac Newton afirmou sentir-se como uma criança recolhendo conchas à margem do grande e desconhecido oceano da verdade. Os cientistas que vieram depois dele, nos ramos da filosofia natural que eu conhecia, pareciam-me iniciantes na mesma tarefa.

English → O camponês sem instrução conhecia o mundo natural e sabia usá-lo na prática. Mesmo o filósofo mais sábio conhecia pouco mais. Ele havia revelado em parte a Natureza, mas sua verdadeira forma continuava sendo assombro e mistério. Podia abrir as coisas, estudá-las e dar-lhes nomes, mas ainda desconhecia suas causas mais profundas. Eu observava as barreiras que pareciam impedir os homens de entrar na fortaleza da natureza e me queixava tola e ignorantemente.

English → Mas ali estavam os livros e homens que sabiam mais e tinham ido mais fundo. Acreditei no que diziam e tornei-me seu discípulo. Pode parecer estranho que isso ocorresse no século XVIII, mas, enquanto acompanhava as aulas em Genebra, eu me ensinava sobretudo nas matérias de que mais gostava. Meu pai não era cientista, de modo que eu tinha de lutar com a ignorância de uma criança e o intenso desejo de aprender de um estudante. Guiado por meus novos mestres, trabalhei muito para encontrar a pedra filosofal e o elixir da vida. Logo, porém, o elixir da vida tornou-se meu único objetivo. Eu me importava menos com dinheiro do que com glória. Que fama grandiosa viria se eu pudesse acabar com as doenças do corpo humano e tornar as pessoas imunes à morte, exceto pela violência!

English → Esses não eram meus únicos sonhos. Meus livros favoritos prometiam que fantasmas ou demônios podiam ser evocados, e tentei ansiosamente fazê-lo. Se meus feitiços falhavam, eu culpava minha falta de experiência e meus erros, não os mestres. Por algum tempo, perdi-me em teorias antigas e inúteis. Misturei mil ideias opostas, como alguém que não aprendera o ofício, e me debati num pântano profundo de muitos tipos de conhecimento. Minha imaginação viva e meu pensamento infantil me conduziram, até que um acidente voltou a mudar minhas ideias.

English → Quando eu tinha cerca de quinze anos, vivíamos em nossa casa perto de Bellerive quando vimos uma terrível tempestade. Ela vinha de trás das montanhas do Jura, e os trovões explodiam alto em muitas partes do céu. Enquanto durou, observei-a com curiosidade e prazer. Então, parado à porta, vi de repente uma corrente de fogo atingir um velho e belo carvalho, a cerca de vinte metros de nossa casa. Quando a luz brilhante desapareceu, o carvalho já não existia; restava apenas um toco quebrado. Na manhã seguinte, fomos vê-lo e percebemos que a árvore fora destruída de modo estranho. Não se partira em lascas por um golpe, mas se transformara em finas tiras de madeira. Nunca tinha visto algo destruído tão completamente.

English → Antes disso, eu conhecia as leis mais evidentes da eletricidade. Naquele dia, havia conosco um homem que estudava profundamente a filosofia natural. Impressionado pelo estranho acontecimento, explicou uma teoria sobre eletricidade e galvanismo que era nova e espantosa para mim. O que disse fez Cornelius Agrippa, Alberto Magno e Paracelso, que haviam enchido minha imaginação, parecerem muito menos importantes. Mas, por alguma razão, a derrota deles fez-me abandonar os antigos estudos. Parecia que nada jamais poderia ser conhecido. Tudo que antes me interessava de súbito pareceu inútil. Num impulso juvenil de sentimentos mutáveis, deixei imediatamente meu trabalho anterior. Rejeitei a história natural e todos os estudos relacionados como feios e fracos, e senti profundo desprezo por uma ciência que nem sequer podia alcançar a porta do verdadeiro saber. Voltei-me então para a matemática e as matérias a ela ligadas, pois pareciam assentar em terreno firme e dignas de minha atenção.

English → Os corações humanos são feitos de modo estranho, e coisas muito pequenas podem levar-nos ao sucesso ou à ruína. Olhando para trás, sinto que essa mudança quase mágica de meus desejos e vontade foi obra do anjo da guarda de minha vida, o último esforço do espírito protetor para afastar a tempestade que já me esperava. Sua vitória se mostrou numa estranha calma e felicidade depois que abandonei aqueles velhos estudos que ultimamente me atormentavam. Assim, aprendi a associar o mal a segui-los e a felicidade a deixá-los de lado.

Foi um forte esforço do espírito do bem, mas não funcionou. O destino era poderoso demais, e suas leis imutáveis haviam decidido minha destruição completa e terrível.

Capítulo III

English → Quando completei dezessete anos, meus pais decidiram que eu estudaria na Universidade de Ingolstadt. Até então, frequentara a escola em Genebra, mas meu pai acreditava que, para concluir minha educação, eu precisava aprender costumes além dos de meu próprio país. Assim, minha partida foi marcada para breve. Mas, antes que o dia chegasse, ocorreu a primeira desgraça de minha vida, como sinal da miséria que viria depois.

English → Elizabeth contraíra escarlatina. Estava muito doente e corria grande perigo. Durante sua enfermidade, muitos tentaram impedir minha mãe de cuidar dela. A princípio, ela cedeu a nossos pedidos. Mas, ao saber que a vida de Elizabeth estava em risco, não conseguiu mais ficar afastada. Velou por seu leito, e seus cuidados venceram a doença. Elizabeth foi salva, mas esse gesto teve consequências fatais para quem a salvou. No terceiro dia, minha mãe adoeceu. Sua febre apresentava sinais muito preocupantes, e os médicos temiam o pior. Mesmo no leito de morte, essa excelente mulher permaneceu corajosa e bondosa. Uniu as mãos de Elizabeth às minhas e disse: “Meus filhos, eu tinha as mais fortes esperanças de felicidade futura por causa do casamento de vocês. Agora essa esperança confortará seu pai. Elizabeth, meu amor, você deve ocupar meu lugar junto a meus filhos mais novos. Entristece-me deixá-los. Fui feliz e amada, e é difícil separar-me de todos vocês. Mas não são esses os pensamentos que devo ter agora. Tentarei enfrentar a morte com calma e espero encontrá-los novamente em outro mundo.”

English → Ela morreu em paz, e seu rosto demonstrava amor até na morte. Não preciso descrever a dor daqueles cujos laços mais íntimos são rompidos por uma perda assim. Há um vazio na alma e desespero no rosto. A princípio, a mente mal consegue acreditar que a pessoa vista todos os dias, e cuja vida parecia parte da nossa, se foi para sempre. É difícil acreditar que um olhar amado se apagou e que uma voz tão familiar e querida jamais será ouvida novamente. Esses são os pensamentos dos primeiros dias. Mais tarde, quando o tempo prova que a perda é real, começa a verdadeira amargura do luto. Contudo, quem não perdeu alguém querido neste mundo áspero? Por que descrever uma dor que todas as pessoas sentiram e devem sentir? Com o tempo, o luto se torna mais uma escolha que uma necessidade, e até um sorriso pode voltar a aparecer. Minha mãe estava morta, mas ainda tínhamos deveres. Era preciso continuar a viver e agradecer por ainda nos restar uma pessoa amada.

English → Minha partida para Ingolstadt, adiada por esses acontecimentos, foi novamente decidida. Meu pai deu-me mais algumas semanas antes de eu partir. Parecia errado deixar tão cedo a casa silenciosa do luto e voltar à vida agitada. Eu ainda não conhecia a dor, e ela continuava a me assustar. Não queria deixar as pessoas que ainda tinha comigo. Acima de tudo, queria ver minha querida Elizabeth consolada de algum modo.

Ela escondia de verdade a própria tristeza e tentava consolar todos nós. Enfrentou a vida com firmeza e assumiu seus deveres com coragem e energia. Dedicou-se àqueles que fora ensinada a chamar de tio e primos. Nunca foi mais encantadora do que então, quando seus sorrisos voltaram e ela os compartilhou conosco. Chegava até a esquecer a própria dor enquanto procurava ajudar-nos a esquecer a nossa.

English → Por fim chegou o dia de minha partida. Clerval passou a última noite conosco. Tentara convencer o pai a deixá-lo vir e estudar comigo, mas foi inútil. Seu pai era um comerciante de visão estreita e via apenas preguiça e ruína nas esperanças e na ambição do filho. Henry sentia profundamente a perda de uma boa educação. Falava pouco, mas, quando falava, eu via em seus olhos brilhantes e no rosto animado uma decisão oculta, porém firme, de não se prender à vida monótona do comércio.

Ficamos acordados até tarde. Não suportávamos nos separar e nem conseguíamos pronunciar a palavra “Adeus!”. Mas ela foi dita, e fomos para a cama fingindo descansar, cada um pensando que enganava os demais. Ao amanhecer, quando desci até a carruagem que me levaria, todos estavam lá. Meu pai veio novamente abençoar-me. Clerval apertou minha mão uma vez mais. Minha Elizabeth pediu-me novamente que escrevesse com frequência e deu-me sua última demonstração carinhosa de cuidado, como amiga e companheira de infância.

English → Entrei na carruagem que me levaria e me entreguei a pensamentos tristes. Sempre estivera cercado de companheiros bondosos, empenhados em dar e compartilhar felicidade. Agora eu estava só. Na universidade para onde ia, teria de fazer meus próprios amigos e cuidar de mim mesmo. Minha vida sempre fora tranquila e centrada no lar, e isso fazia com que eu não gostasse de rostos novos. Amava meus irmãos, Elizabeth e Clerval; eram rostos familiares que eu conhecia bem. Mas acreditava não ter sido feito para a companhia de estranhos. Esses eram meus pensamentos ao iniciar a viagem. Contudo, à medida que avançava, meu ânimo melhorava. Eu desejava intensamente o conhecimento. Em casa, muitas vezes achara difícil passar a juventude preso a um único lugar e ansiara ver o mundo e ocupar meu lugar entre outras pessoas. Agora esse desejo se realizava; seria tolice lamentá-lo.

English → Durante a viagem a Ingolstadt, tive tempo suficiente para esses e muitos outros pensamentos. A jornada foi longa e cansativa. Por fim avistei a alta torre branca da cidade. Desci e fui conduzido ao meu quarto solitário, onde passaria a noite como quisesse.

Na manhã seguinte, entreguei minhas cartas de apresentação e visitei alguns dos principais professores. Por acaso, ou melhor, pela influência maligna que parecia guiar-me desde que deixara a casa de meu pai, fui primeiro ao senhor Krempe, professor de filosofia natural. Era um homem de aparência estranha, mas conhecia muito bem sua matéria. Fez-me várias perguntas sobre meu progresso nas diferentes áreas da filosofia natural. Respondi descuidadamente e, quase como uma afronta, disse que lera principalmente as obras dos alquimistas. O professor me encarou. “Você realmente desperdiçou seu tempo com tamanha bobagem?”, perguntou.

English → Respondi que sim. “Cada minuto”, disse o senhor Krempe, irritado, “cada instante que você passou nesses livros está inteiramente perdido. Você encheu a memória de ideias falsas e nomes inúteis. Meu Deus! Onde viveu, em que lugar vazio, para que ninguém lhe dissesse que essas velhas fantasias têm mil anos e são tão mofadas quanto antigas? Eu não esperava, nesta era sábia e científica, encontrar um seguidor de Alberto Magno e Paracelso. Meu caro senhor, você precisa recomeçar seus estudos do início.”

Então ele se afastou e anotou uma lista de livros de filosofia natural que queria que eu obtivesse. Em seguida mandou-me embora, dizendo que, no começo da semana seguinte, iniciaria um curso de palestras sobre filosofia natural em geral. Acrescentou que o senhor Waldman, outro professor, daria palestras de química nos dias em que ele não as desse.

English → Voltei para casa sem me decepcionar, pois já considerava aqueles autores inúteis, como o professor dissera. Ainda assim, não senti maior vontade de estudá-los de novo. O senhor Krempe era baixo e largo, tinha voz áspera e rosto desagradável, e não me fez gostar de sua matéria. Talvez eu tenha explicado minhas primeiras ideias de maneira excessivamente refletida e coerente. Quando criança, eu não me satisfazia com os resultados prometidos pelos mestres da ciência moderna. Como era muito jovem e não tinha guia, minhas ideias eram confusas. Voltei pela história do conhecimento e troquei as descobertas de pensadores recentes pelos sonhos de alquimistas esquecidos. Também desprezava a filosofia natural moderna. Era diferente quando os cientistas buscavam a imortalidade e o poder; embora tais objetivos fossem impossíveis, eram grandiosos. Mas agora as coisas eram diferentes. O objetivo do estudante parecia apenas destruir os próprios sonhos que tornavam a ciência interessante para mim. Pediam-me que abandonasse visões grandiosas e selvagens por verdades comuns de pouco valor.

English → Durante meus primeiros dois ou três dias em Ingolstadt, passei a maior parte do tempo conhecendo a cidade e as principais pessoas de meu novo lar. Mas, quando a semana seguinte começou, lembrei-me do que o senhor Krempe me dissera sobre as palestras. Eu não suportava ouvir aquele homenzinho orgulhoso falar de um púlpito, mas me recordava do que ele havia dito sobre o senhor Waldman, a quem eu nunca vira porque estivera fora da cidade até então.

English → Por curiosidade e tédio, fui à sala de palestras, e o senhor Waldman entrou logo depois. Era muito diferente do colega. Parecia ter cerca de cinquenta anos, e seu rosto revelava grande bondade. Tinha alguns fios grisalhos nas têmporas, embora os cabelos na parte de trás da cabeça ainda fossem quase pretos. Era baixo, mas mantinha-se muito ereto, e sua voz era a mais doce que eu já ouvira. Começou pela história da química e pelas mudanças feitas por diferentes estudiosos, pronunciando com grande emoção os nomes dos grandes descobridores. Em seguida, apresentou brevemente o estado atual da ciência e explicou muitos termos básicos. Depois de alguns experimentos simples, concluiu com alto elogio à química moderna, palavras que eu jamais esqueceria:

English → “Os antigos mestres dessa ciência”, disse ele, “prometiam coisas impossíveis e nada faziam. Os mestres modernos prometem muito pouco; sabem que os metais não podem ser transformados em outros metais e que o elixir da vida é apenas um sonho. Mas esses pensadores, cujas mãos parecem feitas apenas para a sujeira e cujos olhos espiam pelo microscópio ou pelo cadinho, realmente fizeram maravilhas. Penetram profundamente na natureza e mostram como ela trabalha em segredo. Elevam-se aos céus: descobriram como o sangue circula no corpo e como é o ar que respiramos. Adquiriram novos poderes sem medida. Podem comandar o trovão, imitar um terremoto e até zombar do mundo invisível com suas próprias sombras.”

English → Essas foram as palavras do professor, ou melhor, as palavras do destino, pronunciadas para me destruir. Enquanto ele continuava, senti como se minha alma lutasse contra um inimigo verdadeiro. Uma a uma, as teclas do meu ser foram tocadas. Logo minha mente estava cheia de um único pensamento, um plano e um propósito. Tanto já foi feito, clamou a alma de Frankenstein, e eu farei mais, muito mais. Seguirei o caminho já marcado, abrirei um novo, explorarei poderes desconhecidos e revelarei ao mundo os segredos mais profundos da criação.

English → Não fechei os olhos naquela noite. Meu íntimo estava em rebelião e confusão. Sentia que dali surgiria ordem, mas não tinha poder para criá-la. Depois do amanhecer, adormeci aos poucos. Ao despertar, meus pensamentos da noite anterior pareciam um sonho. Restava apenas uma decisão: eu voltaria aos antigos estudos e me dedicaria a uma ciência para a qual acreditava ter talento natural. No mesmo dia, visitei o senhor Waldman. Em particular, ele era ainda mais gentil e agradável do que em público. Em sua palestra, tinha certa dignidade; em casa, ela era substituída por grande calor humano e bondade. Dei-lhe quase o mesmo relato de meus estudos anteriores que dera ao colega. Ele ouviu atentamente minha história e sorriu aos nomes de Cornelius Agrippa e Paracelso, mas sem o desprezo demonstrado pelo senhor Krempe. Disse que esses homens, por seu trabalho incansável, haviam fornecido aos filósofos modernos boa parte dos fundamentos de seu saber. Deixaram-nos a tarefa mais fácil de dar novos nomes e organizar os fatos que ajudaram a descobrir. Acrescentou que o trabalho das grandes mentes, mesmo quando parcialmente equivocado, quase sempre acaba ajudando a humanidade. Eu o ouvi e então lhe contei que sua palestra mudara minha aversão aos químicos modernos. Falei com cuidado e respeito, como um jovem deve falar ao professor, sem mostrar a excitação que sentia por dentro. Perguntei-lhe que livros deveria obter.

English → “Fico feliz”, disse o senhor Waldman, “por ter conquistado um aluno. Se seu esforço corresponder à sua capacidade, não tenho dúvida de que terá sucesso. A química é a área da filosofia natural em que se fez - e ainda se pode fazer - o maior progresso. É por isso que a estudo tão de perto. Mas não ignorei as outras ciências. Um homem seria um mau químico se estudasse apenas essa matéria. Se deseja realmente tornar-se um homem de ciência, e não apenas um pequeno experimentador, aconselho-o a estudar todos os ramos da filosofia natural, incluindo a matemática.”

Então ele me levou ao laboratório e explicou como funcionavam seus diversos aparelhos. Disse-me o que eu deveria comprar e prometeu que mais tarde eu poderia usar seu próprio equipamento, quando soubesse o suficiente para não danificá-lo. Também me deu a lista de livros que eu pedira, e então parti.

English → Assim terminou um dia de que eu sempre me lembraria, pois decidiu meu futuro.

Capítulo IV

English → Daquele dia em diante, a filosofia natural, especialmente a química, tornou-se quase meu único trabalho. Li avidamente os livros dos pesquisadores modernos, cheios de habilidade e reflexão cuidadosa. Assisti às palestras e conheci os cientistas da universidade. Até no senhor Krempe encontrei muito bom senso e conhecimento verdadeiro, embora seu rosto e suas maneiras fossem desagradáveis. O senhor Waldman tornou-se um verdadeiro amigo para mim. Nunca era rígido ou obstinado. Ensinava com honestidade e bondade e jamais parecia orgulhoso ou pedante. De muitas formas, tornou mais fácil para mim o caminho do aprendizado e esclareceu assuntos difíceis. No início, meus estudos eram irregulares e incertos, mas se fortaleceram com o tempo. Logo meu desejo se tornou tão grande que eu frequentemente ficava no laboratório até que a luz da manhã apagasse as estrelas.

English → Como trabalhava tão arduamente, avancei depressa. Meu entusiasmo surpreendia os estudantes, e minha habilidade surpreendia os professores. O professor Krempe muitas vezes me perguntava, com um sorriso malicioso, como ia Cornelius Agrippa, enquanto o senhor Waldman se alegrava de verdade com meu êxito. Dois anos passaram assim, e não visitei Genebra. Coloquei todo o coração nas descobertas que esperava fazer. Só quem sentiu isso pode entender o poder da ciência. Em outros estudos, só se pode seguir o caminho que outros já percorreram, e nada de novo resta a aprender. Mas a ciência sempre oferece descobertas e maravilhas novas. Uma pessoa de capacidade comum que estude cuidadosamente uma matéria certamente se tornará muito hábil nela. Continuei buscando um único objetivo e, por isso, progredi tão rápido que, após dois anos, fiz algumas descobertas para aperfeiçoar instrumentos químicos. Elas me trouxeram grande respeito e admiração na universidade. Então eu conhecia a teoria e a prática da filosofia natural tão bem quanto as lições dos professores de Ingolstadt podiam ensinar. Como permanecer ali já não podia ajudar meu aperfeiçoamento, pensei em voltar aos amigos e à cidade natal, mas então aconteceu algo que me fez ficar mais tempo.

English → Uma coisa que me chamou especialmente a atenção foi a estrutura do corpo humano e de qualquer animal vivo. Eu frequentemente me perguntava de onde vinha a vida. Era uma pergunta audaciosa, sempre considerada um mistério. Contudo, estamos perto de aprender muitas coisas, se o medo ou o descuido não nos detiverem. Refleti sobre isso e decidi estudar mais a filosofia natural, sobretudo a fisiologia. Sem uma excitação intensa e quase antinatural, esse estudo teria sido muito difícil para mim. Para compreender a vida, é preciso primeiro estudar a morte. Aprendi anatomia, mas isso não bastava. Também precisava observar a decomposição natural do corpo humano. Meu pai tivera grande cuidado em proteger minha mente dos medos sobrenaturais. Eu não temia histórias de fantasmas, espíritos ou a escuridão. Um cemitério era apenas o lugar onde jaziam corpos mortos, corpos antes belos e fortes, mas agora alimento de vermes. Então precisei estudar como a decomposição começa e cresce, e passei dias e noites em criptas e ossários. Observei coisas que perturbam profundamente os sentimentos humanos. Vi como o belo corpo humano se torna fraco e arruinado, como a morte segue a vida e como os vermes tomam o que antes foi olho e cérebro. Estudei cada pequena causa e transformação, até que de repente me ocorreu uma ideia luminosa, maravilhosa e simples. Espantou-me que, entre tantos grandes homens que estudaram o mesmo assunto, só eu tivesse encontrado esse segredo assombroso.

English → Lembre-se: não estou narrando o sonho de um louco. O que digo é tão verdadeiro quanto o sol que brilha no céu. Um milagre pode ter ajudado, mas os passos de minha descoberta foram claros e prováveis. Após dias e noites de trabalho e exaustão extremos, descobri a causa da vida e do nascimento. Mais do que isso: tornei-me capaz de dar vida à matéria morta.

No início fiquei maravilhado, mas logo essa sensação se transformou em alegria e entusiasmo. Depois de tanto trabalho doloroso, alcançar o auge de meu desejo foi grande recompensa. Contudo, a descoberta era tão imensa que esqueci os muitos passos que me levaram até ela e só enxergava o resultado. Aquilo que os homens mais sábios buscavam desde o começo do mundo estava agora em minhas mãos. Não surgiu de uma vez, como por magia. O que aprendi bastava para guiar meus esforços quando os dirigia ao objetivo, mas não para mostrar o resultado acabado. Eu era como o árabe sepultado com os mortos, que encontrou um caminho de volta à vida ajudado apenas por uma luz fraca e quase inútil.

English → Vejo por sua ansiedade e pelo espanto em seus olhos que deseja conhecer o segredo que aprendi. Não posso revelá-lo agora. Ouça com paciência até o fim de minha história e entenderá por que o escondo. Não quero conduzi-lo, como um dia fui conduzido, à destruição e à miséria certa. Aprenda comigo, se não por meu conselho, ao menos por meu exemplo, quão perigoso pode ser o conhecimento. Uma pessoa é mais feliz se considera sua pequena cidade o mundo inteiro do que se tenta tornar-se maior do que sua natureza permite.

English → Ao descobrir tamanho poder em minhas mãos, hesitei por muito tempo sobre como empregá-lo. Embora pudesse dar vida, preparar um corpo com tantas fibras, músculos e veias ainda exigia um trabalho incrivelmente difícil. Primeiro pensei se devia criar um ser semelhante a mim ou um mais simples, mas meu êxito inicial fez-me acreditar que poderia dar vida a um animal tão complexo e maravilhoso quanto um ser humano. Os materiais de que dispunha mal bastavam para tarefa tão difícil, mas acreditava que por fim teria êxito. Esperava muitos fracassos. Meu trabalho poderia ser interrompido repetidamente e, no final, ainda ser imperfeito. Mas eu também sabia que a ciência e as máquinas melhoram a cada dia, e esperava que meu trabalho ao menos ajudasse o êxito futuro. Não achei que a dimensão e a dificuldade do plano significassem que ele não pudesse ser realizado. Com esses sentimentos, comecei a criar um ser humano. Como as partes minúsculas me atrasavam demais, decidi, contrariando meu primeiro plano, fazer a criatura muito grande, com cerca de oito pés de altura e bem proporcionada. Depois dessa decisão e de vários meses reunindo e organizando os materiais, comecei.

English → Ninguém pode imaginar os muitos sentimentos que me impeliam como um furacão na primeira alegria do êxito. A vida e a morte pareciam limites que eu poderia transpor, e pensei que lançaria uma torrente de luz em nosso mundo sombrio. Uma nova espécie me abençoaria como seu criador. Muitos seres bons e felizes me deveriam a vida. Nenhum pai poderia conquistar a gratidão de um filho tão plenamente quanto eu mereceria a deles. Ao refletir sobre isso, acreditei que, se podia dar vida à matéria morta, talvez um dia, embora agora parecesse impossível, pudesse restaurar a vida a um corpo que a morte já encaminhara à decomposição.

English → Esses pensamentos me mantinham ativo enquanto trabalhava com energia constante. O estudo deixara meu rosto pálido, e o confinamento tornara meu corpo magro. Às vezes chegava muito perto do êxito e então falhava, mas ainda me prendia à esperança de que o dia seguinte, ou mesmo a hora seguinte, pudesse trazê-lo. A esperança era o segredo pelo qual eu vivia. A lua observava meu trabalho noturno enquanto eu perscrutava sem descanso os lugares ocultos da natureza. Quem poderia imaginar o horror de meu labor secreto, quando trabalhava no ar úmido do cemitério ou forçava um animal vivo a dar vida ao barro morto? Ainda hoje tremo e me sinto mal ao recordá-lo. Mas então uma força intensa, quase louca, me impelia. Eu parecia perder todos os outros sentimentos e pensamentos, exceto esse objetivo. Era apenas um estado passageiro e, quando passou, senti a dor ainda mais fortemente. Recolhi ossos em ossários e usei minhas mãos para desvendar os terríveis segredos do corpo humano. Num quarto solitário no alto da casa, longe dos demais cômodos, mantinha minha oficina imunda. Meus olhos doíam ao acompanhar cada detalhe do trabalho. A sala de dissecação e o matadouro me forneciam muitos materiais. Muitas vezes meus sentimentos humanos me faziam odiar o que eu fazia, mas minha crescente ânsia me levava adiante até que a obra estivesse quase concluída.

English → Os meses de verão passaram enquanto eu estava inteiramente absorvido nessa única tarefa. Era uma bela estação. Os campos davam uma colheita abundante, e as videiras produziam uma maravilhosa safra de uvas. Mas eu não podia desfrutar a beleza da natureza. Os mesmos sentimentos que me faziam ignorar o mundo ao redor também me faziam esquecer meus amigos, que estavam longe e que eu não via havia muito tempo. Sabia que meu silêncio os preocupava e recordava as palavras de meu pai: “Sei que, quando estiver satisfeito consigo mesmo, pensará em nós com amor e teremos notícias suas regularmente. Perdoe-me se penso que qualquer interrupção em suas cartas significa que você também está negligenciando seus outros deveres.”

Eu sabia, portanto, o que meu pai devia estar sentindo. Mas não conseguia afastar a mente de meu trabalho, desagradável em si mesmo, porém com poderoso domínio sobre minha imaginação. Queria adiar tudo o que se referia ao amor e à família até que a grande tarefa, que tomara conta de todos os meus hábitos e pensamentos, estivesse concluída.

English → Naquela época, eu achava que meu pai seria injusto se me culpasse por vício ou mau caráter. Mas agora creio que ele tinha razão ao pensar que eu não estava inteiramente livre de culpa. Uma pessoa deve conservar a mente calma e serena e não permitir que a paixão ou um desejo passageiro perturbem essa paz. Não considero que a busca do conhecimento seja uma exceção. Se o estudo que se segue enfraquece o amor pelos outros e destrói o prazer nas alegrias simples, então esse estudo é realmente inadequado à mente humana. Se as pessoas sempre seguissem essa regra e jamais deixassem qualquer objetivo perturbar a paz da vida familiar, a Grécia não teria sido escravizada, César teria poupado seu país, a América teria sido descoberta mais lentamente, e os impérios do México e do Peru não teriam sido destruídos.

Mas esqueço que estou dando lições morais justamente na parte mais interessante de minha história, e seu olhar me lembra de continuar.

English → Meu pai não me censurava nas cartas. Apenas perguntava com mais cuidado do que antes o que eu estava fazendo. O inverno, a primavera e o verão passaram enquanto eu trabalhava. Nem sequer observava as flores ou as folhas crescerem, embora sempre as tivesse amado. Eu estava completamente concentrado no trabalho. Quando as folhas daquele ano morreram, minha obra estava quase terminada. A cada dia eu via mais claramente que fora bem-sucedido. Mas minha excitação se misturava ao medo. Eu parecia mais um homem forçado a trabalhar em minas ou em algum emprego insalubre do que um artista fazendo o que amava. Todas as noites eu tinha febre baixa e me tornara dolorosamente nervoso. A queda de uma folha me assustava, e eu evitava outras pessoas como se tivesse feito algo errado. Às vezes me chocava com o quanto havia piorado. Só meu propósito firme me mantinha em movimento. Logo minha obra terminaria, e eu acreditava que exercícios e diversão afastariam então os primeiros sinais da doença. Prometi-me ambos quando minha criação estivesse completa.

Capítulo V

English → Foi numa escura noite de novembro que vi meu árduo trabalho terminado. Com um medo quase doloroso, preparei ao meu redor os instrumentos da vida para dar vida à coisa sem vida que jazia a meus pés. Já era uma hora da manhã. A chuva batia tristemente nas janelas e minha vela estava quase acabada quando, à luz fraca, vi o olho amarelo e opaco da criatura se abrir. Ela respirou com dificuldade, e um movimento violento sacudiu seus membros.

Como descrever meus sentimentos naquele momento terrível, ou descrever a criatura que eu trabalhara tanto e tão cuidadosamente para criar? Seus membros eram bem proporcionados, e eu escolhera que seu rosto fosse belo. Belo! Meu Deus! Sua pele amarela mal cobria os músculos e as artérias por baixo. Os cabelos eram negros, brilhantes e longos. Os dentes, brancos como pérolas. Mas essas boas feições apenas tornavam mais forte o contraste horrível com os olhos úmidos, quase da mesma cor das órbitas branco-opacas, o rosto enrugado e os lábios negros e retos.

English → A vida não muda tanto quanto os sentimentos humanos. Trabalhara arduamente por quase dois anos apenas para pôr vida num corpo sem vida. Por isso, abandonara o repouso e a saúde. Eu o desejara com uma paixão maior que a prudência. Mas, quando terminei, a beleza do sonho desapareceu, e meu coração se encheu de horror e nojo. Não suportava contemplar o que fizera e fugi do quarto. Andei por muito tempo de um lado para outro no dormitório, incapaz de acalmar a mente o bastante para dormir. Por fim me cansei e me joguei vestido sobre a cama, tentando esquecer por algum tempo. Foi inútil. Cheguei a dormir, mas sonhos terríveis me perturbaram. Vi Elizabeth, jovem e saudável, caminhando pelas ruas de Ingolstadt. Feliz e surpreso, abracei-a. Mas, ao beijar seus lábios, eles adquiriram a cor da morte. Seu rosto pareceu mudar, e pensei segurar em meus braços o corpo de minha mãe morta. Uma mortalha a cobria, e eu via vermes nas dobras do pano. Acordei horrorizado. Suor frio cobria minha testa, meus dentes batiam e todo meu corpo tremia. Então, à luz amarela e pálida da lua que entrava pelas venezianas, vi o desgraçado - o monstro miserável que eu criara. Ele segurava a cortina da cama, e seus olhos, se podiam ser chamados de olhos, estavam fixos em mim. Abriu a mandíbula e produziu sons indistintos enquanto um sorriso torcia suas faces. Talvez tivesse falado, mas eu não o ouvi. Uma mão se estendeu, como se quisesse deter-me, mas escapei e corri escada abaixo. Escondi-me no pátio da casa em que morava e passei o resto da noite caminhando de um lado para outro, aterrorizado, escutando cada som, como se pudesse avisar que o cadáver maligno ao qual eu dera vida por engano estava vindo.

English → Nenhum mortal poderia suportar o horror daquele rosto. Uma múmia trazida de volta à vida não seria mais horrível que aquele desgraçado. Eu o vira antes de estar acabado, e já era feio. Mas, quando seus músculos e articulações puderam mover-se, tornou-se algo que nem Dante poderia imaginar.

Passei a noite em miséria. Às vezes meu pulso batia tão rápido e forte que eu sentia cada artéria latejar. Em outras, quase caía no chão de fraqueza e exaustão. Junto desse horror, senti profunda decepção. Os sonhos que por tanto tempo me alimentaram e consolaram tinham se tornado um inferno. E a mudança fora tão rápida, tão completa!

English → Por fim chegou uma manhã escura e molhada e mostrou aos meus olhos doloridos e sem sono a igreja de Ingolstadt, com sua torre branca e o relógio marcando seis horas. O porteiro abriu o portão do pátio onde eu encontrara abrigo naquela noite, e saí para as ruas. Caminhei depressa, como se quisesse escapar do desgraçado que temia ver em cada esquina. Não ousei voltar ao quarto, mas me senti impelido a continuar, embora estivesse encharcado pela chuva que caía do céu negro e frio.

Continuei caminhando assim por algum tempo, tentando aliviar o peso em minha mente pelo esforço do corpo. Percorri as ruas sem saber realmente onde estava ou o que fazia. Meu coração batia depressa de medo, e eu me apressava com passos irregulares, sem ousar olhar ao redor:

English → “Como quem, numa estrada solitária, / Caminha com medo e pavor, / E, depois de olhar para trás uma vez, segue adiante / E não volta mais a cabeça; / Pois sabe que um demônio terrível / Pisa bem perto atrás dele.”

Enquanto seguia, logo cheguei em frente à estalagem onde as diferentes carruagens costumavam parar. Parei ali, sem saber por quê. Por alguns minutos fiquei imóvel, olhando uma carruagem que vinha da outra extremidade da rua. Quando se aproximou, vi que era a diligência suíça. Ela parou onde eu estava e, quando a porta se abriu, vi Henry Clerval. Ao me ver, ele saltou imediatamente. “Meu caro Frankenstein”, exclamou, “como estou feliz em vê-lo! Que sorte você estar aqui exatamente quando eu desço!”

English → Ver Clerval me deixou muito feliz. Sua chegada fez-me pensar em meu pai, Elizabeth e todas as cenas queridas do lar. Tomei-lhe a mão e, de imediato, esqueci o medo e a miséria. Pela primeira vez em muitos meses, senti-me calmo e realmente feliz. Recebi-o calorosamente e caminhamos para minha faculdade. Clerval falou por algum tempo sobre nossos amigos e sobre sua própria boa sorte por ter recebido permissão para vir a Ingolstadt. Disse que fora difícil convencer o pai de que o conhecimento útil não era apenas contabilidade. No fim, porém, o amor do pai foi mais forte que sua aversão ao aprendizado, e ele o deixou partir nessa viagem de descoberta rumo à terra do saber.

“Fico muito feliz em vê-lo. Mas diga-me: como deixou meu pai, meus irmãos e Elizabeth?”

English → “Eles estão muito bem e muito felizes, mas se preocupam um pouco porque recebem notícias suas tão raramente. Eu mesmo vou repreendê-lo por isso. Mas, meu caro Frankenstein”, disse ele, parando e me olhando atentamente, “eu não havia percebido como você parece doente. Está tão magro e pálido. Parece não dormir há várias noites.”

“Você tem razão. Ultimamente estive tão profundamente ocupado com uma tarefa que não me permiti descansar o suficiente, como pode ver. Mas espero, e espero sinceramente, que todas essas tarefas estejam agora encerradas e que eu esteja finalmente livre.”

English → Tremi violentamente. Não suportava pensar nos acontecimentos da noite anterior, muito menos falar deles. Caminhei depressa e logo chegamos à minha faculdade. Então pensei, com um arrepio, que a criatura que deixara no quarto talvez ainda estivesse lá, viva e se movendo. Eu temia ver o monstro, mas temia ainda mais que Henry o visse. Pedi, portanto, que Henry esperasse alguns minutos no pé da escada e corri para o quarto. Minha mão já estava na fechadura quando recobrei a razão. Parei, e um medo gelado tomou conta de mim. Abri a porta com força, como fazem as crianças que esperam encontrar um fantasma. Mas não havia nada ali. Entrei receosamente. O quarto estava vazio e meu dormitório livre de seu visitante terrível. Mal podia acreditar em tanta felicidade. Mas, ao certificar-me de que meu inimigo realmente partira, bati palmas de alegria e corri de volta para Clerval.

English → Subimos ao quarto, e o criado logo trouxe o desjejum. Mas eu não conseguia me acalmar. Não era apenas alegria que me preenchia. Meu corpo parecia estranho e excessivamente sensível, e meu pulso batia rápido. Eu não conseguia ficar quieto por um instante. Pulei por cima das cadeiras, bati palmas e ri alto. A princípio, Clerval pensou que minha estranha excitação se devia apenas à sua chegada. Mas, ao me observar melhor, viu em meus olhos um olhar selvagem que não conseguia compreender. Minha risada alta, descontrolada e vazia o assustou e surpreendeu.

“Meu caro Victor”, exclamou ele, “o que, em nome de Deus, está acontecendo? Não ria assim. Como você está doente! O que causa tudo isso?”

“Não me pergunte”, gritei, cobrindo os olhos, pois pensei ver o terrível fantasma deslizar para dentro do quarto. “Ele pode lhe contar. Ah, salve-me! Salve-me!” Pensei que o monstro me agarrara. Lutei desesperadamente e então caí num ataque.

English → Pobre Clerval! Como deve ter se sentido? Um encontro que aguardara com tanta alegria transformara-se em tristeza. Mas eu não vi sua dor, pois estava inconsciente e só voltei a mim muito tempo depois.

Foi o início de uma febre nervosa que me manteve na cama por vários meses. Durante todo esse tempo, Henry foi meu único enfermeiro. Mais tarde soube que ele escondera de meu pai e de Elizabeth a gravidade da doença. Meu pai era velho demais para uma viagem tão longa, e Elizabeth teria ficado profundamente aflita. Henry sabia que eu não poderia ter enfermeiro mais bondoso e esperava que eu me recuperasse. Acreditava ajudá-los da melhor forma possível.

Chapter I

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Nasci em Genebra, e minha família é uma das mais respeitadas da cidade. Meus antepassados foram conselheiros e síndicos por muitos anos, e meu pai exerceu vários cargos públicos com honra. Todos que o conheciam o respeitavam, pois era honesto e trabalhava muito pelo bem público. Na juventude, ele estava sempre ocupado com os assuntos de seu país. Por muitas razões, só se casou tarde e apenas então tornou-se marido e pai.

Original English Version

I am by birth a Genevese; and my family is one of the most distinguished of that republic. My ancestors had been for many years counsellors and syndics; and my father had filled several public situations with honour and reputation. He was respected by all who knew him, for his integrity and indefatigable attention to public business. He passed his younger days perpetually occupied by the affairs of his country; a variety of circumstances had prevented his marrying early, nor was it until the decline of life that he became a husband and the father of a family.

Tradução Integral em Português

Sou genovês de nascimento; e minha família é uma das mais ilustres daquela república. Meus antepassados ​​foram durante muitos anos conselheiros e síndicos; e meu pai ocupou diversos cargos públicos com honra e reputação. Ele era respeitado por todos que o conheciam, por sua integridade e atenção incansável aos negócios públicos. Ele passou sua juventude perpetuamente ocupado pelos assuntos de seu país; uma variedade de circunstâncias o impediram de se casar cedo, e só no declínio da vida ele se tornou marido e pai de família.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

O casamento de meu pai mostra seu caráter, por isso devo contar como aconteceu. Um de seus amigos mais próximos era um comerciante chamado Beaufort. Após muitos infortúnios, Beaufort perdeu a fortuna e empobreceu. Orgulhoso e obstinado, não suportava viver na pobreza no mesmo país onde fora conhecido por sua posição e luxo. Assim, depois de pagar honradamente as dívidas, foi com a filha para Lucerna e ali viveu em segredo e miséria. Meu pai amava Beaufort como a um verdadeiro amigo e entristeceu-se profundamente com sua queda. Detestava o falso orgulho que levara o amigo a uma vida tão triste. Logo procurou encontrá-lo, esperando convencê-lo a recomeçar com sua ajuda e apoio.

Original English Version

As the circumstances of his marriage illustrate his character, I cannot refrain from relating them. One of his most intimate friends was a merchant, who, from a flourishing state, fell, through numerous mischances, into poverty. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Having paid his debts, therefore, in the most honourable manner, he retreated with his daughter to the town of Lucerne, where he lived unknown and in wretchedness. My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances. He bitterly deplored the false pride which led his friend to a conduct so little worthy of the affection that united them. He lost no time in endeavouring to seek him out, with the hope of persuading him to begin the world again through his credit and assistance.

Tradução Integral em Português

Como as circunstâncias do seu casamento ilustram o seu caráter, não posso deixar de relatá-las. Um de seus amigos mais íntimos era um comerciante que, vindo de um estado próspero, caiu, através de numerosos infortúnios, na pobreza. Este homem, cujo nome era Beaufort, era de uma disposição orgulhosa e inflexível, e não suportava viver na pobreza e no esquecimento no mesmo país onde anteriormente se distinguia pela sua posição e magnificência. Tendo pago as suas dívidas, portanto, da maneira mais honrosa, retirou-se com a filha para a cidade de Lucerna, onde viveu desconhecido e na miséria. Meu pai amava Beaufort com a mais verdadeira amizade e ficou profundamente triste com sua retirada nessas circunstâncias infelizes. Deplorou amargamente o falso orgulho que levava o amigo a uma conduta tão pouco digna do afeto que os unia. Ele não perdeu tempo em tentar procurá-lo, na esperança de persuadi-lo a recomeçar o mundo através de seu crédito e assistência.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Beaufort escondera-se tão bem que meu pai levou dez meses para descobrir onde morava. Muito feliz, foi imediatamente à casa, situada numa rua pobre perto do rio Reuss. Mas, ao entrar, encontrou apenas miséria e desespero. Beaufort conservara apenas uma pequena soma de sua fortuna arruinada. Era suficiente para viver alguns meses, enquanto esperava conseguir trabalho respeitável numa casa comercial. Porém, passou esse tempo sem fazer nada. A dor se agravou com o tempo para refletir e, por fim, dominou-o a tal ponto que, após três meses, adoeceu e ficou incapaz de agir.

A filha cuidava dele com grande ternura, mas via, com medo, que o pouco dinheiro acabava depressa e que não tinham outro apoio. Ainda assim, Caroline Beaufort tinha uma mente firme. Sua coragem se elevou diante das dificuldades. Ela fazia trabalhos simples de costura e trançava palha. De várias maneiras, ganhava o suficiente para mantê-los vivos.

Original English Version

Beaufort had taken effectual measures to conceal himself; and it was ten months before my father discovered his abode. Overjoyed at this discovery, he hastened to the house, which was situated in a mean street, near the Reuss. But when he entered, misery and despair alone welcomed him. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. The interval was, consequently, spent in inaction; his grief only became more deep and rankling, when he had leisure for reflection; and at length it took so fast hold of his mind, that at the end of three months he lay on a bed of sickness, incapable of any exertion.

His daughter attended him with the greatest tenderness; but she saw with despair that their little fund was rapidly decreasing, and that there was no other prospect of support. But Caroline Beaufort possessed a mind of an uncommon mould; and her courage rose to support her in her adversity. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life.

Tradução Integral em Português

Beaufort tomou medidas eficazes para se esconder; e passaram-se dez meses antes que meu pai descobrisse sua morada. Muito feliz com esta descoberta, ele correu para a casa, que ficava numa rua secundária, perto do Reuss. Mas quando ele entrou, apenas a miséria e o desespero o acolheram. Beaufort economizou apenas uma pequena quantia de dinheiro com a destruição de sua fortuna; mas foi suficiente para lhe proporcionar sustento durante alguns meses e, enquanto isso, ele esperava conseguir algum emprego respeitável na casa de um comerciante. O intervalo foi, conseqüentemente, passado em inação; sua dor só se tornou mais profunda e irritante quando ele teve tempo para refletir; e por fim isso tomou conta de sua mente tão rapidamente que, ao final de três meses, ele ficou deitado num leito de doença, incapaz de qualquer esforço.

Sua filha o atendeu com a maior ternura; mas ela viu com desespero que o seu pequeno fundo estava diminuindo rapidamente e que não havia outra perspectiva de apoio. Mas Caroline Beaufort possuía uma mente de molde incomum; e sua coragem aumentou para apoiá-la em sua adversidade. Ela conseguiu trabalho simples; ela trançava palha; e por vários meios conseguiu ganhar uma ninharia que mal é suficiente para sustentar a vida.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Isso continuou por vários meses. Seu pai piorou, e ela passava cada vez mais tempo cuidando dele. O dinheiro diminuía e, no décimo mês, o pai morreu em seus braços, deixando-a sozinha e pobre. Esse último golpe partiu seu coração. Ela se ajoelhou junto ao caixão de Beaufort e chorou amargamente quando meu pai entrou no quarto. Ele se aproximou da moça como um protetor, e ela confiou-se aos seus cuidados. Depois que o amigo foi enterrado, levou-a para Genebra e a deixou com uma parente. Dois anos mais tarde, Caroline tornou-se sua esposa.

Original English Version

Several months passed in this manner. Her father grew worse; her time was more entirely occupied in attending him; her means of subsistence decreased; and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her an orphan and a beggar. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. He came like a protecting spirit to the poor girl, who committed herself to his care; and after the interment of his friend, he conducted her to Geneva, and placed her under the protection of a relation. Two years after this event Caroline became his wife.

Tradução Integral em Português

Vários meses se passaram dessa maneira. O pai dela piorou; seu tempo estava mais inteiramente ocupado em atendê-lo; os seus meios de subsistência diminuíram; e no décimo mês seu pai morreu em seus braços, deixando-a órfã e mendiga. Este último golpe a venceu; e ela se ajoelhou junto ao caixão de Beaufort, chorando amargamente, quando meu pai entrou na câmara. Ele veio como um espírito protetor para a pobre menina, que se entregou aos seus cuidados; e após o enterro de seu amigo, ele a conduziu a Genebra e a colocou sob a proteção de um parente. Dois anos após este evento, Caroline tornou-se sua esposa.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Meus pais tinham idades muito diferentes, mas isso apenas fortaleceu o laço amoroso entre eles. Meu pai tinha um forte senso do que era certo e precisava respeitar profundamente alguém para amá-lo de verdade. Talvez tivesse sido ferido por alguém em quem confiava; por isso, passou a valorizar ainda mais a bondade comprovada. Ele demonstrava por minha mãe gratidão e reverência, não o amor fraco da velhice. Admirava suas virtudes e queria compensar os sofrimentos que ela suportara. Isso o tornava muito gentil. Tudo precisava atender aos desejos e ao conforto dela. Tentava protegê-la de toda dificuldade, como um jardineiro protege uma flor rara do mau tempo, e cercá-la de coisas que agradassem sua natureza bondosa. A saúde dela, e até seu espírito habitualmente sereno, haviam sido abalados pelo que vivera. Nos dois anos anteriores ao casamento, meu pai abandonou gradualmente os deveres públicos. Depois de casados, viajaram para a Itália, esperando que o clima quente e novas paisagens restaurassem seu corpo frágil.

Original English Version

There was a considerable difference between the ages of my parents, but this circumstance seemed to unite them only closer in bonds of devoted affection. There was a sense of justice in my father’s upright mind, which rendered it necessary that he should approve highly to love strongly. Perhaps during former years he had suffered from the late-discovered unworthiness of one beloved, and so was disposed to set a greater value on tried worth. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Everything was made to yield to her wishes and her convenience. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Her health, and even the tranquillity of her hitherto constant spirit, had been shaken by what she had gone through. During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame.

Tradução Integral em Português

Havia uma diferença considerável entre as idades dos meus pais, mas esta circunstância parecia uni-los ainda mais em laços de devotada afeição. Havia um senso de justiça na mente correta de meu pai, o que tornava necessário que ele aprovasse fortemente o amor forte. Talvez durante os anos anteriores ele tivesse sofrido com a indignidade de um ser amado, recentemente descoberta, e por isso estivesse disposto a dar um valor maior ao valor experimentado. Havia uma demonstração de gratidão e adoração em seu apego a minha mãe, totalmente diferente do carinho amoroso da idade, pois era inspirado pela reverência pelas virtudes dela e pelo desejo de ser o meio de, em algum grau, recompensá-la pelas tristezas que ela havia suportado, mas que deu graça inexprimível ao comportamento dele para com ela. Tudo foi feito para ceder aos seus desejos e à sua conveniência. Ele se esforçou para protegê-la, como um belo exótico é protegido pelo jardineiro, de todos os ventos mais fortes, e para cercá-la com tudo que pudesse provocar emoções agradáveis ​​em sua mente suave e benevolente. Sua saúde, e até a tranquilidade de seu espírito até então constante, foram abaladas pelo que ela passou. Durante os dois anos que antecederam o casamento, meu pai abandonou gradualmente todas as suas funções públicas; e imediatamente após a união, eles buscaram o clima agradável da Itália e a mudança de cenário e de interesse decorrentes de uma viagem por aquela terra de maravilhas, como um restaurador para seu corpo enfraquecido.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Da Itália viajaram para a Alemanha e a França. Fui o primeiro filho e nasci em Nápoles. Ainda bebê, viajei com eles. Por vários anos, fui seu único filho. Eles se amavam profundamente, mas pareciam ter também um amor sem fim para me dar. Minhas primeiras lembranças são os abraços suaves de minha mãe e o sorriso bondoso de meu pai ao olhar para mim. Eu era seu brinquedo e tesouro, mas também mais que isso: era seu filho, dado a eles pelo Céu. Sabiam que tinham o dever de educar-me bem e que minha futura felicidade ou miséria dependeria deles. Como entendiam isso e eram ambos muito ternos, ensinaram-me diariamente paciência, bondade e autocontrole. Contudo, eu me sentia guiado por uma fita suave, e toda a minha infância pareceu cheia de felicidade.

Original English Version

From Italy they visited Germany and France. I, their eldest child, was born at Naples, and as an infant accompanied them in their rambles. I remained for several years their only child. Much as they were attached to each other, they seemed to draw inexhaustible stores of affection from a very mine of love to bestow them upon me. My mother’s tender caresses, and my father’s smile of benevolent pleasure while regarding me, are my first recollections. I was their plaything and their idol, and something better - their child, the innocent and helpless creature bestowed on them by Heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery, according as they fulfilled their duties towards me. With this deep consciousness of what they owed towards the being to which they had given life, added to the active spirit of tenderness that animated both, it may be imagined that while during every hour of my infant life I received a lesson of patience, of charity, and of self-control, I was so guided by a silken cord, that all seemed but one train of enjoyment to me.

Tradução Integral em Português

Da Itália visitaram a Alemanha e a França. Eu, o filho mais velho, nasci em Nápoles e, quando criança, acompanhava-os em suas caminhadas. Permaneci por vários anos como seu único filho. Por mais que fossem apegados um ao outro, pareciam extrair reservas inesgotáveis ​​de afeto de uma mina de amor para concedê-los a mim. As ternas carícias de minha mãe e o sorriso de prazer benevolente de meu pai ao me olhar são minhas primeiras lembranças. Eu era seu brinquedo e seu ídolo, e algo melhor - seu filho, a criatura inocente e indefesa que lhes foi concedida pelo Céu, a quem deveriam educar para o bem, e cujo destino futuro estava em suas mãos direcionar para a felicidade ou a miséria, conforme cumprissem seus deveres para comigo. Com esta profunda consciência do que deviam ao ser a quem deram a vida, somada ao espírito ativo de ternura que animava ambos, pode-se imaginar que, embora durante cada hora da minha vida infantil eu recebesse uma lição de paciência, de caridade e de autocontrole, fui tão guiado por um cordão de seda que tudo me pareceu apenas um trem de prazer.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Por muito tempo, fui sua única preocupação. Minha mãe desejava uma filha, mas continuei sendo filho único. Quando eu tinha cerca de cinco anos, viajaram para fora da Itália e passaram uma semana perto do lago de Como. Visitavam com frequência os casebres dos pobres, pois tinham bom coração. Para minha mãe, isso era mais que um dever: era uma necessidade profunda e uma paixão, pois se lembrava do próprio sofrimento e de como fora ajudada. Queria ser um anjo da guarda para outros que sofriam. Numa caminhada, notaram uma cabana pobre num vale, de aspecto muito triste, com muitas crianças semivestidas ao redor. Era sinal de extrema pobreza. Certo dia, enquanto meu pai fora sozinho a Milão, minha mãe levou-me à cabana. Ali encontrou um camponês e sua esposa, ambos exaustos de trabalho e preocupação, dividindo uma pequena refeição com cinco filhos famintos. Uma criança se destacava. Não parecia pertencer àquela família. As outras quatro tinham olhos escuros e aparência rude e forte, mas ela era magra e muito clara. Seus cabelos eram de ouro vivo e, embora suas roupas fossem pobres, tinha aspecto nobre. A testa era ampla e límpida, os olhos azuis brilhantes, e o rosto mostrava tanta doçura e sensibilidade que qualquer um a julgaria uma criança celestial.

Original English Version

For a long time I was their only care. My mother had much desired to have a daughter, but I continued their single offspring. When I was about five years old, while making an excursion beyond the frontiers of Italy, they passed a week on the shores of the Lake of Como. Their benevolent disposition often made them enter the cottages of the poor. This, to my mother, was more than a duty; it was a necessity, a passion - remembering what she had suffered, and how she had been relieved - for her to act in her turn the guardian angel to the afflicted. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. One day, when my father had gone by himself to Milan, my mother, accompanied by me, visited this abode. She found a peasant and his wife, hard working, bent down by care and labour, distributing a scanty meal to five hungry babes. Among these there was one which attracted my mother far above all the rest. She appeared of a different stock. The four others were dark-eyed, hardy little vagrants; this child was thin, and very fair. Her hair was the brightest living gold, and, despite the poverty of her clothing, seemed to set a crown of distinction on her head. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features.

Tradução Integral em Português

Por muito tempo fui seu único cuidado. Minha mãe desejava muito ter uma filha, mas eu dei continuidade à sua filha solteira. Quando eu tinha cerca de cinco anos, durante uma excursão além das fronteiras da Itália, eles passaram uma semana às margens do Lago de Como. Sua disposição benevolente muitas vezes os fazia entrar nas casas dos pobres. Isto, para minha mãe, era mais que um dever; era uma necessidade, uma paixão - lembrar o que ela havia sofrido e como ela havia sido aliviada - para ela agir por sua vez como o anjo da guarda dos aflitos. Durante uma de suas caminhadas, um pobre berço nas dobras de um vale atraiu a atenção deles, por ser singularmente desconsolador, enquanto o número de crianças seminuas reunidas em torno dele falava da penúria em seu pior estado. Um dia, quando meu pai foi sozinho para Milão, minha mãe, acompanhada por mim, visitou esta morada. Ela encontrou um camponês e sua esposa, trabalhando arduamente, curvados pelo cuidado e pelo trabalho, distribuindo uma escassa refeição a cinco bebês famintos. Entre estes havia um que atraiu a minha mãe muito mais do que todos os outros. Ela parecia de uma linhagem diferente. Os outros quatro eram pequenos vagabundos de olhos escuros e resistentes; essa criança era magra e muito bonita. Seu cabelo era do mais brilhante ouro vivo e, apesar da pobreza de suas roupas, parecia colocar uma coroa de distinção em sua cabeça. Sua testa era clara e ampla, seus olhos azuis sem nuvens, e seus lábios e o formato de seu rosto tão expressivos de sensibilidade e doçura, que ninguém poderia contemplá-la sem olhar para ela como sendo de uma espécie distinta, um ser enviado do céu, e trazendo uma marca celestial em todas as suas feições.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A camponesa percebeu o espanto e a admiração de minha mãe pela linda criança e logo contou sua história. A menina não era sua filha. Era filha de um nobre de Milão. A mãe, alemã, morrera ao dar-lhe à luz. O bebê fora entregue àquele bom casal para ser criado. Naquela época, eles tinham melhores condições. Haviam se casado recentemente, e o filho mais velho acabara de nascer. O pai da menina era um daqueles italianos que ainda lembravam a antiga glória da Itália e lutavam pela liberdade de seu país. Mas tornou-se vítima da fraqueza de sua nação. Ninguém sabia se morrera ou se ainda vivia nas prisões austríacas. Seus bens foram confiscados, e a filha ficou órfã e mendiga. Ela permaneceu com os pais adotivos e cresceu no lar pobre deles, mais bela que uma rosa num jardim selvagem.

Original English Version

The peasant woman, perceiving that my mother fixed eyes of wonder and admiration on this lovely girl, eagerly communicated her history. She was not her child, but the daughter of a Milanese nobleman. Her mother was a German, and had died on giving her birth. The infant had been placed with these good people to nurse: they were better off then. They had not been long married, and their eldest child was but just born. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. He became the victim of its weakness. Whether he had died, or still lingered in the dungeons of Austria, was not known. His property was confiscated, his child became an orphan and a beggar. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles.

Tradução Integral em Português

A camponesa, percebendo que minha mãe fixava olhares de admiração e admiração naquela linda menina, comunicou com entusiasmo a sua história. Ela não era filha dela, mas filha de um nobre milanês. Sua mãe era alemã e morreu ao dar à luz. A criança foi colocada com essas boas pessoas para amamentar: então eles estavam em melhor situação. Eles não estavam casados ​​há muito tempo e seu filho mais velho acabara de nascer. O pai de seu pupilo era um daqueles italianos nutridos na memória da antiga glória da Itália - um entre os schiavi ognor frementi, que se esforçou para obter a liberdade de seu país. Ele se tornou vítima de sua fraqueza. Se ele havia morrido ou ainda permanecia nas masmorras da Áustria, não se sabia. Seus bens foram confiscados, seu filho ficou órfão e mendigo. Ela continuou com seus pais adotivos e floresceu em sua rude residência, mais bela do que uma rosa de jardim entre arbustos de folhas escuras.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando meu pai voltou de Milão, encontrou uma criança brincando comigo no salão de nossa vila. Ela era mais bela que um anjo pintado e parecia irradiar luz. Seus movimentos eram leves como os de uma cabra-montesa. O mistério logo foi explicado. Com a permissão de meu pai, minha mãe convencera seus simples guardiões a entregá-la aos seus cuidados. Eles amavam a doce órfã, e sua presença lhes parecera uma bênção. Mas não seria correto mantê-la na pobreza quando a Providência lhe oferecia proteção tão firme. Pediram conselho ao padre da aldeia e, por fim, Elizabeth Lavenza veio viver na casa de meus pais. Ela foi mais que uma irmã para mim e tornou-se a bela e querida companheira de todos os meus trabalhos e brincadeiras.

Original English Version

When my father returned from Milan, he found playing with me in the hall of our villa, a child fairer than pictured cherub - a creature who seemed to shed radiance from her looks, and whose form and motions were lighter than the chamois of the hills. The apparition was soon explained. With his permission my mother prevailed on her rustic guardians to yield their charge to her. They were fond of the sweet orphan. Her presence had seemed a blessing to them; but it would be unfair to her to keep her in poverty and want, when Providence afforded her such powerful protection. They consulted their village priest, and the result was, that Elizabeth Lavenza became the inmate of my parents’ house - my more than sister - the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures.

Tradução Integral em Português

Quando meu pai voltou de Milão, encontrou brincando comigo, no hall de nossa vila, uma criança mais bela do que o querubim retratado - uma criatura que parecia irradiar brilho em sua aparência e cujas formas e movimentos eram mais leves que a camurça das colinas. A aparição foi logo explicada. Com a sua permissão, a minha mãe convenceu os seus tutores rústicos a entregarem-lhe a sua responsabilidade. Eles gostavam do doce órfão. A presença dela parecia uma bênção para eles; mas seria injusto para ela mantê-la na pobreza e na miséria, quando a Providência lhe concedeu uma proteção tão poderosa. Consultaram o padre da aldeia e o resultado foi que Elizabeth Lavenza se tornou a moradora da casa dos meus pais - minha mais que irmã - a bela e adorada companheira de todas as minhas ocupações e prazeres.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Todos amavam Elizabeth. Eu me sentia orgulhoso e feliz por compartilhar esse amor. Na noite anterior à sua chegada, minha mãe disse, brincando: “Tenho um lindo presente para meu Victor; amanhã ele o receberá.” No dia seguinte, entregou-me Elizabeth como o presente prometido. Levei suas palavras muito a sério e pensei em Elizabeth como minha, alguém que eu devia proteger, amar e cuidar. Recebia cada elogio a ela como elogio a algo que me pertencia. Chamávamo-nos primos. Nenhuma palavra poderia descrever inteiramente nosso vínculo. Ela era mais que uma irmã para mim e, até a morte, seria só minha.

Original English Version

Everyone loved Elizabeth. The passionate and almost reverential attachment with which all regarded her became, while I shared it, my pride and my delight. On the evening previous to her being brought to my home, my mother had said playfully, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” And when, on the morrow, she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I, with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine - mine to protect, love, and cherish. All praises bestowed on her, I received as made to a possession of my own. We called each other familiarly by the name of cousin. No word, no expression could body forth the kind of relation in which she stood to me - my more than sister, since till death she was to be mine only.

Tradução Integral em Português

Todos adoravam Elizabeth. O apego apaixonado e quase reverente com que todos a olhavam tornou-se, enquanto eu o compartilhava, meu orgulho e minha alegria. Na noite anterior a ela ser trazida para minha casa, minha mãe disse brincando: “Tenho um lindo presente para meu Victor - amanhã ele o receberá”. E quando, no dia seguinte, ela me apresentou Elizabeth como seu presente prometido, eu, com uma seriedade infantil, interpretei suas palavras literalmente e considerei Elizabeth como minha - minha para proteger, amar e valorizar. Todos os elogios concedidos a ela, recebi como se fossem propriedade minha. Nós nos chamávamos familiarmente pelo nome de primo. Nenhuma palavra, nenhuma expressão poderia definir o tipo de relação que ela mantinha comigo - minha mais que irmã, já que até a morte ela seria apenas minha.

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Chapter II

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Crescemos juntos, com menos de um ano de diferença entre nós. Nunca tivemos discussões sérias. A harmonia era o coração de nossa amizade, e nossos temperamentos diferentes nos aproximavam ainda mais. Elizabeth era mais calma e concentrada. Eu era mais intenso e gostava de aprender profundamente. Ela apreciava os poetas e seus mundos sonhadores. Em nossa casa suíça, as montanhas, as mudanças das estações, as tempestades e a calmaria, e o silêncio do inverno lhe davam grande alegria. Eu gostava de estudar por que as coisas aconteciam. O mundo era um mistério que eu queria compreender. A curiosidade e a alegria de aprender as leis ocultas da natureza estão entre minhas primeiras lembranças.

Original English Version

We were brought up together; there was not quite a year difference in our ages. I need not say that we were strangers to any species of disunion or dispute. Harmony was the soul of our companionship, and the diversity and contrast that subsisted in our characters drew us nearer together. Elizabeth was of a calmer and more concentrated disposition; but, with all my ardour, I was capable of a more intense application, and was more deeply smitten with the thirst for knowledge. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. While my companion contemplated with a serious and satisfied spirit the magnificent appearances of things, I delighted in investigating their causes. The world was to me a secret which I desired to divine. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember.

Tradução Integral em Português

Fomos criados juntos; não houve exatamente um ano de diferença em nossas idades. Não preciso dizer que éramos estranhos a qualquer espécie de desunião ou disputa. A harmonia era a alma do nosso companheirismo, e a diversidade e o contraste que subsistiam em nossos temperamentos nos aproximaram ainda mais. Elizabeth tinha uma disposição mais calma e concentrada; mas, com todo o meu ardor, era capaz de uma dedicação mais intensa e fui mais profundamente atingido pela sede de conhecimento. Ela se ocupou em acompanhar as criações aéreas dos poetas; e nas cenas majestosas e maravilhosas que rodeavam a nossa casa suíça - as formas sublimes das montanhas; as mudanças das estações; tempestade e calma; o silêncio do inverno e a vida e a turbulência dos nossos verões alpinos - ela encontrou amplo espaço para admiração e deleite. Enquanto meu companheiro contemplava com espírito sério e satisfeito a magnífica aparência das coisas, eu me deleitava em investigar suas causas. O mundo era para mim um segredo que eu desejava adivinhar. A curiosidade, a pesquisa séria para aprender as leis ocultas da natureza, a alegria semelhante ao êxtase, à medida que me foram reveladas, estão entre as primeiras sensações de que me lembro.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando meu segundo irmão nasceu, sete anos depois de mim, meus pais abandonaram a vida errante e se estabeleceram em sua terra natal. Tínhamos uma casa em Genebra e uma residência de campo em Bellerive, no lado oriental do lago, pouco mais de uma légua distante da cidade. Vivíamos principalmente na casa de campo, e meus pais levavam uma vida tranquila, afastados de muitas pessoas. Eu também gostava de evitar multidões e de dedicar toda minha lealdade a poucos amigos. Por isso, não me importava muito com a maioria dos colegas, mas me tornei muito próximo de um deles. Henry Clerval era filho de um comerciante de Genebra. Talentoso e imaginativo, amava a aventura, a dificuldade e o perigo. Lia livros de cavalaria e romances, escrevia canções heroicas e começava muitas histórias de magia e feitos valentes. Tentava fazer-nos atuar em peças e mascaradas, usando heróis de Roncesvales, a Távola Redonda do rei Artur e os cavaleiros que lutaram para libertar o Santo Sepulcro.

Original English Version

On the birth of a second son, my junior by seven years, my parents gave up entirely their wandering life, and fixed themselves in their native country. We possessed a house in Geneva, and a campagne on Bellerive, the eastern shore of the lake, at the distance of rather more than a league from the city. We resided principally in the latter, and the lives of my parents were passed in considerable seclusion. It was my temper to avoid a crowd, and to attach myself fervently to a few. I was indifferent, therefore, to my schoolfellows in general; but I united myself in the bonds of the closest friendship to one among them. Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant of Geneva. He was a boy of singular talent and fancy. He loved enterprise, hardship, and even danger, for its own sake. He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance. He composed heroic songs, and began to write many a tale of enchantment and knightly adventure. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels.

Tradução Integral em Português

Com o nascimento de um segundo filho, sete anos mais novo que eu, meus pais desistiram inteiramente de sua vida errante e se estabeleceram em seu país natal. Possuímos uma casa em Genebra e uma campagne em Bellerive, a margem oriental do lago, a uma distância de pouco mais de uma légua da cidade. Residimos principalmente neste último, e a vida de meus pais transcorreu em considerável reclusão. Era meu temperamento evitar uma multidão e me apegar fervorosamente a algumas. Eu era, portanto, indiferente aos meus colegas de escola em geral; mas eu me uni nos laços da mais íntima amizade com um deles. Henry Clerval era filho de um comerciante de Genebra. Ele era um menino de talento e fantasia singulares. Ele amava o empreendimento, as dificuldades e até mesmo o perigo, por si só. Ele foi profundamente lido em livros de cavalaria e romance. Ele compôs canções heróicas e começou a escrever muitas histórias de encantamento e aventuras cavalheirescas. Ele tentou nos fazer representar peças e participar de bailes de máscaras, nos quais os personagens eram escolhidos entre os heróis de Roncesvalles, da Távola Redonda do Rei Arthur e do grupo de cavalheirescos que derramaram seu sangue para resgatar o santo sepulcro das mãos dos infiéis.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Nenhum ser humano poderia ter tido uma infância mais feliz que a minha. Meus pais eram muito bondosos e indulgentes. Sabíamos que não eram governantes cruéis decidindo nossa vida ao acaso, mas as pessoas que nos davam todas as alegrias. Quando conhecia outras famílias, via claramente como eu era afortunado, e isso tornava meu amor por meus pais ainda mais forte.

Meu temperamento às vezes era violento, e meus sentimentos, intensos. Mas essa energia não me levava a brincadeiras infantis. Em vez disso, tornou-se um forte desejo de aprender. Eu não queria aprender tudo. Não me interessavam a estrutura das línguas, os governos ou a política. O que eu queria era conhecer os segredos do céu e da terra. Queria compreender a natureza exterior das coisas, o espírito oculto da natureza e a alma misteriosa do homem. Meus estudos sempre se voltavam para os segredos físicos e filosóficos mais profundos do mundo.

Original English Version

No human being could have passed a happier childhood than myself. My parents were possessed by the very spirit of kindness and indulgence. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love.

My temper was sometimes violent, and my passions vehement; but by some law in my temperature they were turned, not towards childish pursuits, but to an eager desire to learn, and not to learn all things indiscriminately. I confess that neither the structure of languages, nor the code of governments, nor the politics of various states, possessed attractions for me. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things, or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my enquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or, in its highest sense, the physical secrets of the world.

Tradução Integral em Português

Nenhum ser humano poderia ter passado uma infância mais feliz do que eu. Meus pais eram possuídos pelo próprio espírito de bondade e indulgência. Sentimos que eles não eram os tiranos que governavam nossa sorte de acordo com seus caprichos, mas os agentes e criadores de todas as muitas delícias de que gostávamos. Quando me misturei com outras famílias, percebi claramente quão peculiarmente afortunada era minha sorte, e a gratidão ajudou no desenvolvimento do amor filial.

Meu temperamento às vezes era violento e minhas paixões, veementes; mas por alguma lei na minha temperatura eles foram direcionados, não para atividades infantis, mas para um desejo ardente de aprender, e não para aprender todas as coisas indiscriminadamente. Confesso que nem a estrutura das línguas, nem o código dos governos, nem a política dos vários estados me atraíram. Eram os segredos do céu e da terra que eu desejava aprender; e quer fosse a substância exterior das coisas, ou o espírito interior da natureza e a alma misteriosa do homem que me ocupava, ainda assim as minhas investigações eram dirigidas ao metafísico, ou, no seu sentido mais elevado, aos segredos físicos do mundo.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Clerval se preocupava com o lado moral da vida. Amava o mundo público, os feitos dos heróis e as ações dos homens. Sonhava tornar-se uma das pessoas lembradas na história por sua coragem e ajuda aos outros. O espírito puro de Elizabeth brilhava em nosso lar pacífico como uma lâmpada num santuário. Sua compaixão pertencia a todos nós. Seu sorriso, sua voz suave e seus olhos luminosos sempre nos davam conforto e ânimo. Ela era um espírito vivo de amor, que acalmava e aproximava as pessoas. Eu talvez tivesse me tornado sombrio em meus estudos e rude por minha natureza intensa, mas ela estava ali para me tornar mais gentil. E Clerval, por mais nobre que fosse, tornou-se ainda mais humano e generoso porque Elizabeth lhe mostrou a verdadeira beleza da bondade e fez do bem o objetivo de sua grande ambição.

Original English Version

Meanwhile Clerval occupied himself, so to speak, with the moral relations of things. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home. Her sympathy was ours; her smile, her soft voice, the sweet glance of her celestial eyes, were ever there to bless and animate us. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition.

Tradução Integral em Português

Enquanto isso, Clerval ocupava-se, por assim dizer, das relações morais das coisas. A fase movimentada da vida, as virtudes dos heróis e as ações dos homens eram o seu tema; e sua esperança e seu sonho era tornar-se um entre aqueles cujos nomes estão registrados na história, como os galantes e aventureiros benfeitores de nossa espécie. A alma santa de Elizabeth brilhou como uma lâmpada dedicada a um santuário em nosso lar pacífico. A simpatia dela era nossa; seu sorriso, sua voz suave, o olhar doce de seus olhos celestiais estavam sempre presentes para nos abençoar e animar. Ela era o espírito vivo do amor para suavizar e atrair: eu poderia ter ficado taciturno em meu estudo, áspero devido ao ardor de minha natureza, mas ela estava lá para me subjugar a uma aparência de sua própria gentileza. E Clerval - poderia alguma coisa se enraizar no nobre espírito de Clerval?

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Sinto grande prazer em recordar minha infância, antes que a desgraça mudasse minha mente e transformasse meus sonhos esperançosos de ajudar os outros em pensamentos sombrios e egoístas. Ao contar a história de minha vida inicial, conto também os acontecimentos que lentamente me levaram à miséria posterior. Quando tento entender como começou essa paixão, vejo que ela nasceu de causas pequenas, quase esquecidas, como um rio de montanha. Mas, à medida que cresceu, tornou-se uma grande inundação que levou embora todas as minhas esperanças e alegrias.

Original English Version

I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys.

Tradução Integral em Português

Sinto um prazer extraordinário em me deter nas lembranças da infância, antes que o infortúnio contaminasse minha mente e transformasse suas visões brilhantes de ampla utilidade em reflexões sombrias e estreitas sobre mim mesmo. Além disso, ao traçar o quadro dos meus primeiros dias, também registro aqueles eventos que levaram, por passos insensíveis, à minha história posterior de miséria: pois quando eu prestaria contas a mim mesmo do nascimento daquela paixão, que mais tarde governou meu destino, eu a vejo surgir, como um rio de montanha, de fontes ignóbeis e quase esquecidas; mas, crescendo à medida que avançava, tornou-se a torrente que, em seu curso, varreu todas as minhas esperanças e alegrias.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A filosofia natural moldou meu destino, por isso quero explicar o que me levou a amar essa ciência. Quando tinha treze anos, fizemos uma viagem de lazer às termas perto de Thonon. O mau tempo obrigou-nos a passar um dia na hospedaria. Ali encontrei um livro de Cornelius Agrippa. Abri-o sem interesse, mas suas ideias e os fatos estranhos que narrava logo me encheram de entusiasmo. Parecia que uma nova luz entrara em minha mente. Feliz e ansioso, mostrei o livro a meu pai. Ele apenas olhou a página de rosto e disse: “Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! Meu querido Victor, não perca seu tempo com isso; é triste lixo.”

Original English Version

Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate; I desire, therefore, in this narration, to state those facts which led to my predilection for that science. When I was thirteen years of age, we all went on a party of pleasure to the baths near Thonon: the inclemency of the weather obliged us to remain a day confined to the inn. In this house I chanced to find a volume of the works of Cornelius Agrippa. I opened it with apathy; the theory which he attempts to demonstrate, and the wonderful facts which he relates, soon changed this feeling into enthusiasm. A new light seemed to dawn upon my mind; and, bounding with joy, I communicated my discovery to my father. My father looked carelessly at the titlepage of my book, and said, “Ah! Cornelius Agrippa! My dear Victor, do not waste your time upon this; it is sad trash.”

Tradução Integral em Português

A filosofia natural é o gênio que regulou meu destino; Desejo, portanto, nesta narração, expor os fatos que levaram à minha predileção por essa ciência. Quando eu tinha treze anos, fomos todos numa festa de prazer às termas perto de Thonon: a inclemência do tempo obrigou-nos a permanecer um dia confinados na estalagem. Nesta casa encontrei por acaso um volume das obras de Cornélio Agripa. Abri com apatia; a teoria que ele tenta demonstrar e os fatos maravilhosos que relata logo transformaram esse sentimento em entusiasmo. Uma nova luz pareceu surgir em minha mente; e, cheio de alegria, comuniquei minha descoberta a meu pai. Meu pai olhou descuidadamente para a página de título do meu livro e disse: "Ah! Cornélio Agripa! Meu querido Victor, não perca seu tempo com isso; é um lixo triste."

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Se meu pai tivesse explicado que as ideias de Agrippa estavam inteiramente desacreditadas e que um sistema moderno de ciência as substituíra, eu certamente teria deixado o livro de lado. Então teria voltado aos estudos anteriores com ainda maior energia. É até possível que meus pensamentos nunca tivessem seguido o caminho que me levou à ruína. Mas meu pai apenas lançou um olhar rápido ao livro, e eu não sabia se ele o compreendia. Por isso continuei lendo com grande avidez.

Original English Version

If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. It is even possible, that the train of my ideas would never have received the fatal impulse that led to my ruin. But the cursory glance my father had taken of my volume by no means assured me that he was acquainted with its contents; and I continued to read with the greatest avidity.

Tradução Integral em Português

Se, em vez desta observação, meu pai tivesse se dado ao trabalho de me explicar que os princípios de Agripa haviam sido totalmente destruídos e que um sistema moderno de ciência havia sido introduzido, que possuía poderes muito maiores que o antigo, porque os poderes deste último eram quiméricos, enquanto os do primeiro eram reais e práticos; sob tais circunstâncias, eu certamente teria deixado Agripa de lado e teria satisfeito minha imaginação, aquecida como estava, retornando com maior ardor aos meus estudos anteriores. É até possível que o curso das minhas ideias nunca tivesse recebido o impulso fatal que me levou à ruína. Mas a rápida olhada que meu pai deu ao meu volume não me garantiu de forma alguma que ele estivesse familiarizado com seu conteúdo; e continuei a ler com a maior avidez.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando voltei para casa, primeiro obtive as obras completas desse autor e depois as de Paracelso e Alberto Magno. Li suas ideias estranhas com deleite. Para mim, eram tesouros conhecidos por poucas pessoas. Já disse que sempre tive forte desejo de entender os segredos da natureza. Mas, mesmo com o trabalho árduo e as grandes descobertas dos cientistas modernos, eu sempre terminava meus estudos infeliz e insatisfeito. Diz-se que Sir Isaac Newton afirmou sentir-se como uma criança recolhendo conchas à margem do grande e desconhecido oceano da verdade. Os cientistas que vieram depois dele, nos ramos da filosofia natural que eu conhecia, pareciam-me iniciantes na mesma tarefa.

Original English Version

When I returned home, my first care was to procure the whole works of this author, and afterwards of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. I read and studied the wild fancies of these writers with delight; they appeared to me treasures known to few beside myself. I have described myself as always having been imbued with a fervent longing to penetrate the secrets of nature. In spite of the intense labour and wonderful discoveries of modern philosophers, I always came from my studies discontented and unsatisfied. Sir Isaac Newton is said to have avowed that he felt like a child picking up shells beside the great and unexplored ocean of truth. Those of his successors in each branch of natural philosophy with whom I was acquainted, appeared even to my boy’s apprehensions, as tyros engaged in the same pursuit.

Tradução Integral em Português

Quando voltei para casa, meu primeiro cuidado foi adquirir as obras completas deste autor, e depois de Paracelso e Alberto Magno. Li e estudei com prazer as fantasias selvagens desses escritores; eles me pareceram tesouros conhecidos por poucos além de mim. Descrevi-me como sempre imbuído de um desejo fervoroso de penetrar nos segredos da natureza. Apesar do intenso trabalho e das maravilhosas descobertas dos filósofos modernos, sempre saí dos estudos descontente e insatisfeito. Diz-se que Sir Isaac Newton confessou que se sentia como uma criança catando conchas ao lado do grande e inexplorado oceano da verdade. Aqueles de seus sucessores em cada ramo da filosofia natural que eu conhecia pareciam, até mesmo para a apreensão de meu filho, como novatos engajados na mesma busca.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

O camponês sem instrução conhecia o mundo natural e sabia usá-lo na prática. Mesmo o filósofo mais sábio conhecia pouco mais. Ele havia revelado em parte a Natureza, mas sua verdadeira forma continuava sendo assombro e mistério. Podia abrir as coisas, estudá-las e dar-lhes nomes, mas ainda desconhecia suas causas mais profundas. Eu observava as barreiras que pareciam impedir os homens de entrar na fortaleza da natureza e me queixava tola e ignorantemente.

Original English Version

The untaught peasant beheld the elements around him, and was acquainted with their practical uses. The most learned philosopher knew little more. He had partially unveiled the face of Nature, but her immortal lineaments were still a wonder and a mystery. He might dissect, anatomise, and give names; but, not to speak of a final cause, causes in their secondary and tertiary grades were utterly unknown to him. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined.

Tradução Integral em Português

O camponês inculto contemplou os elementos ao seu redor e ficou familiarizado com seus usos práticos. O filósofo mais erudito sabia pouco mais. Ele havia revelado parcialmente a face da Natureza, mas seus traços imortais ainda eram uma maravilha e um mistério. Ele poderia dissecar, anatomizar e dar nomes; mas, para não falar de uma causa final, as causas nos seus graus secundário e terciário eram-lhe totalmente desconhecidas. Eu havia contemplado as fortificações e os impedimentos que pareciam impedir os seres humanos de entrar na cidadela da natureza e, precipitada e ignorantemente, lamentei-me.

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Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Mas ali estavam os livros e homens que sabiam mais e tinham ido mais fundo. Acreditei no que diziam e tornei-me seu discípulo. Pode parecer estranho que isso ocorresse no século XVIII, mas, enquanto acompanhava as aulas em Genebra, eu me ensinava sobretudo nas matérias de que mais gostava. Meu pai não era cientista, de modo que eu tinha de lutar com a ignorância de uma criança e o intenso desejo de aprender de um estudante. Guiado por meus novos mestres, trabalhei muito para encontrar a pedra filosofal e o elixir da vida. Logo, porém, o elixir da vida tornou-se meu único objetivo. Eu me importava menos com dinheiro do que com glória. Que fama grandiosa viria se eu pudesse acabar com as doenças do corpo humano e tornar as pessoas imunes à morte, exceto pela violência!

Original English Version

But here were books, and here were men who had penetrated deeper and knew more. I took their word for all that they averred, and I became their disciple. It may appear strange that such should arise in the eighteenth century; but while I followed the routine of education in the schools of Geneva, I was, to a great degree, self taught with regard to my favourite studies. My father was not scientific, and I was left to struggle with a child’s blindness, added to a student’s thirst for knowledge. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend the discovery, if I could banish disease from the human frame, and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death!

Tradução Integral em Português

Mas aqui estavam os livros e aqui estavam os homens que haviam penetrado mais fundo e sabiam mais. Aceitei a palavra deles por tudo o que afirmaram e tornei-me seu discípulo. Pode parecer estranho que tal surja no século XVIII; mas enquanto segui a rotina de educação nas escolas de Genebra, fui, em grande medida, autodidata no que diz respeito aos meus estudos favoritos. Meu pai não era científico e eu tive que lutar contra a cegueira de uma criança, somada à sede de conhecimento de um estudante. Sob a orientação dos meus novos preceptores, entrei com a maior diligência na busca da pedra filosofal e do elixir da vida; mas este último logo obteve toda a minha atenção. A riqueza era um objeto inferior; mas que glória acompanharia a descoberta, se eu pudesse banir a doença da estrutura humana e tornar o homem invulnerável a qualquer coisa que não fosse uma morte violenta!

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Esses não eram meus únicos sonhos. Meus livros favoritos prometiam que fantasmas ou demônios podiam ser evocados, e tentei ansiosamente fazê-lo. Se meus feitiços falhavam, eu culpava minha falta de experiência e meus erros, não os mestres. Por algum tempo, perdi-me em teorias antigas e inúteis. Misturei mil ideias opostas, como alguém que não aprendera o ofício, e me debati num pântano profundo de muitos tipos de conhecimento. Minha imaginação viva e meu pensamento infantil me conduziram, até que um acidente voltou a mudar minhas ideias.

Original English Version

Nor were these my only visions. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas.

Tradução Integral em Português

Nem foram essas minhas únicas visões. A ressurreição de fantasmas ou demônios foi uma promessa liberalmente concedida por meus autores favoritos, cujo cumprimento eu buscava com maior avidez; e se meus encantamentos eram sempre malsucedidos, atribuí o fracasso mais à minha própria inexperiência e erro, do que à falta de habilidade ou fidelidade de meus instrutores. E assim, por um tempo, estive ocupado com sistemas explodidos, misturando, como um não adepto, mil teorias contraditórias, e debatendo-me desesperadamente num pântano de conhecimento multifacetado, guiado por uma imaginação ardente e um raciocínio infantil, até que um acidente mudou novamente a corrente das minhas ideias.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando eu tinha cerca de quinze anos, vivíamos em nossa casa perto de Bellerive quando vimos uma terrível tempestade. Ela vinha de trás das montanhas do Jura, e os trovões explodiam alto em muitas partes do céu. Enquanto durou, observei-a com curiosidade e prazer. Então, parado à porta, vi de repente uma corrente de fogo atingir um velho e belo carvalho, a cerca de vinte metros de nossa casa. Quando a luz brilhante desapareceu, o carvalho já não existia; restava apenas um toco quebrado. Na manhã seguinte, fomos vê-lo e percebemos que a árvore fora destruída de modo estranho. Não se partira em lascas por um golpe, mas se transformara em finas tiras de madeira. Nunca tinha visto algo destruído tão completamente.

Original English Version

When I was about fifteen years old we had retired to our house near Bellerive, when we witnessed a most violent and terrible thunderstorm. It advanced from behind the mountains of Jura; and the thunder burst at once with frightful loudness from various quarters of the heavens. I remained, while the storm lasted, watching its progress with curiosity and delight. As I stood at the door, on a sudden I beheld a stream of fire issue from an old and beautiful oak, which stood about twenty yards from our house; and so soon as the dazzling light vanished, the oak had disappeared, and nothing remained but a blasted stump. When we visited it the next morning, we found the tree shattered in a singular manner. It was not splintered by the shock, but entirely reduced to thin ribbons of wood. I never beheld anything so utterly destroyed.

Tradução Integral em Português

Quando eu tinha cerca de quinze anos, havíamos nos retirado para nossa casa perto de Bellerive, quando testemunhamos uma violenta e terrível tempestade. Avançou por trás das montanhas do Jura; e o trovão explodiu imediatamente com um volume assustador de vários cantos do céu. Permaneci, enquanto durou a tempestade, observando seu progresso com curiosidade e deleite. Enquanto eu estava na porta, de repente vi uma torrente de fogo saindo de um velho e lindo carvalho, que ficava a cerca de vinte metros de nossa casa; e assim que a luz ofuscante desapareceu, o carvalho desapareceu e nada restou além de um toco destruído. Quando a visitamos na manhã seguinte, encontramos a árvore quebrada de uma forma singular. Não foi estilhaçado pelo choque, mas inteiramente reduzido a finas tiras de madeira. Nunca vi nada tão completamente destruído.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Antes disso, eu conhecia as leis mais evidentes da eletricidade. Naquele dia, havia conosco um homem que estudava profundamente a filosofia natural. Impressionado pelo estranho acontecimento, explicou uma teoria sobre eletricidade e galvanismo que era nova e espantosa para mim. O que disse fez Cornelius Agrippa, Alberto Magno e Paracelso, que haviam enchido minha imaginação, parecerem muito menos importantes. Mas, por alguma razão, a derrota deles fez-me abandonar os antigos estudos. Parecia que nada jamais poderia ser conhecido. Tudo que antes me interessava de súbito pareceu inútil. Num impulso juvenil de sentimentos mutáveis, deixei imediatamente meu trabalho anterior. Rejeitei a história natural e todos os estudos relacionados como feios e fracos, e senti profundo desprezo por uma ciência que nem sequer podia alcançar a porta do verdadeiro saber. Voltei-me então para a matemática e as matérias a ela ligadas, pois pareciam assentar em terreno firme e dignas de minha atenção.

Original English Version

Before this I was not unacquainted with the more obvious laws of electricity. On this occasion a man of great research in natural philosophy was with us, and, excited by this catastrophe, he entered on the explanation of a theory which he had formed on the subject of electricity and galvanism, which was at once new and astonishing to me. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. It seemed to me as if nothing would or could ever be known. All that had so long engaged my attention suddenly grew despicable. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. In this mood of mind I betook myself to the mathematics, and the branches of study appertaining to that science, as being built upon secure foundations, and so worthy of my consideration.

Tradução Integral em Português

Antes disso, eu não desconhecia as leis mais óbvias da eletricidade. Nessa ocasião, um homem de grande pesquisa em filosofia natural estava conosco e, entusiasmado com esta catástrofe, iniciou a explicação de uma teoria que havia formado sobre o tema da eletricidade e do galvanismo, que foi ao mesmo tempo nova e surpreendente para mim. Tudo o que ele disse jogou na sombra Cornélio Agripa, Alberto Magno e Paracelso, os senhores da minha imaginação; mas por alguma fatalidade a derrubada desses homens me desinclinou a prosseguir meus estudos habituais. Parecia-me que nada seria ou poderia ser conhecido. Tudo o que há tanto tempo chamava minha atenção tornou-se subitamente desprezível. Por um daqueles caprichos da mente, aos quais estamos talvez mais sujeitos na primeira juventude, desisti imediatamente de minhas ocupações anteriores; estabeleceu a história natural e toda a sua descendência como uma criação deformada e abortada; e nutria o maior desdém por uma pretensa ciência, que nunca poderia sequer pisar no limiar do conhecimento real. Com esse estado de espírito, dediquei-me à matemática e aos ramos de estudo pertencentes a essa ciência, como sendo construídos sobre bases seguras e, portanto, dignos de minha consideração.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Os corações humanos são feitos de modo estranho, e coisas muito pequenas podem levar-nos ao sucesso ou à ruína. Olhando para trás, sinto que essa mudança quase mágica de meus desejos e vontade foi obra do anjo da guarda de minha vida, o último esforço do espírito protetor para afastar a tempestade que já me esperava. Sua vitória se mostrou numa estranha calma e felicidade depois que abandonei aqueles velhos estudos que ultimamente me atormentavam. Assim, aprendi a associar o mal a segui-los e a felicidade a deixá-los de lado.

Foi um forte esforço do espírito do bem, mas não funcionou. O destino era poderoso demais, e suas leis imutáveis haviam decidido minha destruição completa e terrível.

Original English Version

Thus strangely are our souls constructed, and by such slight ligaments are we bound to prosperity or ruin. When I look back, it seems to me as if this almost miraculous change of inclination and will was the immediate suggestion of the guardian angel of my life - the last effort made by the spirit of preservation to avert the storm that was even then hanging in the stars, and ready to envelope me. Her victory was announced by an unusual tranquillity and gladness of soul, which followed the relinquishing of my ancient and latterly tormenting studies. It was thus that I was to be taught to associate evil with their prosecution, happiness with their disregard.

It was a strong effort of the spirit of good; but it was ineffectual. Destiny was too potent, and her immutable laws had decreed my utter and terrible destruction.

Tradução Integral em Português

Assim estranhamente nossas almas são construídas, e por tão leves ligamentos estamos ligados à prosperidade ou à ruína. Quando olho para trás, parece-me que esta mudança quase milagrosa de inclinação e vontade foi a sugestão imediata do anjo da guarda da minha vida - o último esforço feito pelo espírito de preservação para evitar a tempestade que já então pairava nas estrelas, e pronta para me envolver. Sua vitória foi anunciada por uma tranquilidade e alegria de alma incomuns, que se seguiram ao abandono de meus antigos e ultimamente atormentadores estudos. Foi assim que fui ensinado a associar o mal à sua acusação, a felicidade ao seu desrespeito.

Foi um forte esforço do espírito do bem; mas foi ineficaz. O destino era muito poderoso e suas leis imutáveis ​​decretaram minha destruição total e terrível.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Chapter III

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Quando completei dezessete anos, meus pais decidiram que eu estudaria na Universidade de Ingolstadt. Até então, frequentara a escola em Genebra, mas meu pai acreditava que, para concluir minha educação, eu precisava aprender costumes além dos de meu próprio país. Assim, minha partida foi marcada para breve. Mas, antes que o dia chegasse, ocorreu a primeira desgraça de minha vida, como sinal da miséria que viria depois.

Original English Version

When I had attained the age of seventeen, my parents resolved that I should become a student at the university of Ingolstadt. I had hitherto attended the schools of Geneva; but my father thought it necessary, for the completion of my education, that I should be made acquainted with other customs than those of my native country. My departure was therefore fixed at an early date; but, before the day resolved upon could arrive, the first misfortune of my life occurred - an omen, as it were, of my future misery.

Tradução Integral em Português

Quando completei dezessete anos, meus pais resolveram que eu deveria me tornar estudante na Universidade de Ingolstadt. Até então eu havia frequentado as escolas de Genebra; mas meu pai achou necessário, para completar minha educação, que eu conhecesse outros costumes além dos de meu país natal. Minha partida foi, portanto, marcada para uma data antecipada; mas, antes que chegasse o dia decidido, ocorreu o primeiro infortúnio da minha vida - um presságio, por assim dizer, da minha miséria futura.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Elizabeth contraíra escarlatina. Estava muito doente e corria grande perigo. Durante sua enfermidade, muitos tentaram impedir minha mãe de cuidar dela. A princípio, ela cedeu a nossos pedidos. Mas, ao saber que a vida de Elizabeth estava em risco, não conseguiu mais ficar afastada. Velou por seu leito, e seus cuidados venceram a doença. Elizabeth foi salva, mas esse gesto teve consequências fatais para quem a salvou. No terceiro dia, minha mãe adoeceu. Sua febre apresentava sinais muito preocupantes, e os médicos temiam o pior. Mesmo no leito de morte, essa excelente mulher permaneceu corajosa e bondosa. Uniu as mãos de Elizabeth às minhas e disse: “Meus filhos, eu tinha as mais fortes esperanças de felicidade futura por causa do casamento de vocês. Agora essa esperança confortará seu pai. Elizabeth, meu amor, você deve ocupar meu lugar junto a meus filhos mais novos. Entristece-me deixá-los. Fui feliz e amada, e é difícil separar-me de todos vocês. Mas não são esses os pensamentos que devo ter agora. Tentarei enfrentar a morte com calma e espero encontrá-los novamente em outro mundo.”

Original English Version

Elizabeth had caught the scarlet fever; her illness was severe, and she was in the greatest danger. During her illness, many arguments had been urged to persuade my mother to refrain from attending upon her. She had, at first, yielded to our entreaties; but when she heard that the life of her favourite was menaced, she could no longer control her anxiety. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. On the third day my mother sickened; her fever was accompanied by the most alarming symptoms, and the looks of her medical attendants prognosticated the worst event. On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. She joined the hands of Elizabeth and myself: - “My children,” she said, “my firmest hopes of future happiness were placed on the prospect of your union. This expectation will now be the consolation of your father. Elizabeth, my love, you must supply my place to my younger children. Alas! I regret that I am taken from you; and, happy and beloved as I have been, is it not hard to quit you all? But these are not thoughts befitting me; I will endeavour to resign myself cheerfully to death, and will indulge a hope of meeting you in another world.”

Tradução Integral em Português

Elizabeth pegou escarlatina; sua doença era grave e ela corria maior perigo. Durante sua doença, muitos argumentos foram apresentados para persuadir minha mãe a abster-se de atendê-la. Ela, a princípio, cedeu às nossas súplicas; mas quando soube que a vida de seu favorito estava ameaçada, ela não conseguiu mais controlar sua ansiedade. Ela atendeu seu leito de doença - suas atenções vigilantes triunfaram sobre a malignidade da cinomose - Elizabeth foi salva, mas as consequências dessa imprudência foram fatais para seu preservador. No terceiro dia minha mãe adoeceu; sua febre foi acompanhada dos sintomas mais alarmantes, e os olhares dos atendentes médicos prognosticaram o pior acontecimento. No seu leito de morte, a coragem e a benignidade desta melhor das mulheres não a abandonaram. Ela deu as mãos a Elizabeth e a mim: - “Meus filhos”, disse ela, “minhas mais firmes esperanças de felicidade futura foram depositadas na perspectiva de sua união. Essa expectativa agora será o consolo de seu pai. Elizabeth, meu amor, você deve fornecer meu lugar para meus filhos mais novos. Infelizmente! Lamento ter sido tirado de você; e, feliz e amado como tenho sido, não é difícil abandonar todos vocês? Mas esses não são pensamentos adequados para mim; tentarei resignar-me alegremente até a morte, e terei a esperança de encontrá-lo em outro mundo.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ela morreu em paz, e seu rosto demonstrava amor até na morte. Não preciso descrever a dor daqueles cujos laços mais íntimos são rompidos por uma perda assim. Há um vazio na alma e desespero no rosto. A princípio, a mente mal consegue acreditar que a pessoa vista todos os dias, e cuja vida parecia parte da nossa, se foi para sempre. É difícil acreditar que um olhar amado se apagou e que uma voz tão familiar e querida jamais será ouvida novamente. Esses são os pensamentos dos primeiros dias. Mais tarde, quando o tempo prova que a perda é real, começa a verdadeira amargura do luto. Contudo, quem não perdeu alguém querido neste mundo áspero? Por que descrever uma dor que todas as pessoas sentiram e devem sentir? Com o tempo, o luto se torna mais uma escolha que uma necessidade, e até um sorriso pode voltar a aparecer. Minha mãe estava morta, mas ainda tínhamos deveres. Era preciso continuar a viver e agradecer por ainda nos restar uma pessoa amada.

Original English Version

She died calmly; and her countenance expressed affection even in death. I need not describe the feelings of those whose dearest ties are rent by that most irreparable evil; the void that presents itself to the soul; and the despair that is exhibited on the countenance. It is so long before the mind can persuade itself that she, whom we saw every day, and whose very existence appeared a part of our own, can have departed forever - that the brightness of a beloved eye can have been extinguished, and the sound of a voice so familiar, and dear to the ear, can be hushed, never more to be heard. These are the reflections of the first days; but when the lapse of time proves the reality of the evil, then the actual bitterness of grief commences. Yet from whom has not that rude hand rent away some dear connection? and why should I describe a sorrow which all have felt, and must feel? The time at length arrives, when grief is rather an indulgence than a necessity; and the smile that plays upon the lips, although it may be deemed a sacrilege, is not banished. My mother was dead, but we had still duties which we ought to perform; we must continue our course with the rest, and learn to think ourselves fortunate, whilst one remains whom the spoiler has not seized.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ela morreu calmamente; e seu semblante expressava afeto mesmo na morte. Não preciso descrever os sentimentos daqueles cujos laços mais queridos foram rompidos por esse mal irreparável; o vazio que se apresenta à alma; e o desespero que se manifesta no semblante. Demora muito até que a mente possa se convencer de que aquela que víamos todos os dias, e cuja própria existência parecia fazer parte da nossa, pode ter partido para sempre - que o brilho de um olho amado pode ter sido extinto, e o som de uma voz tão familiar e querida ao ouvido pode ser silenciado, para nunca mais ser ouvido. Estas são as reflexões dos primeiros dias; mas quando o lapso de tempo prova a realidade do mal, então começa a verdadeira amargura da dor. No entanto, de quem essa mão rude não arrancou alguma ligação querida? e por que eu deveria descrever uma tristeza que todos sentiram e devem sentir? Chega finalmente o momento em que a dor é mais uma indulgência do que uma necessidade; e o sorriso que brinca nos lábios, embora possa ser considerado um sacrilégio, não é banido. Minha mãe estava morta, mas ainda tínhamos deveres que devíamos cumprir; devemos continuar nosso curso com os demais e aprender a nos considerar afortunados, enquanto resta alguém que o destruidor não capturou.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Minha partida para Ingolstadt, adiada por esses acontecimentos, foi novamente decidida. Meu pai deu-me mais algumas semanas antes de eu partir. Parecia errado deixar tão cedo a casa silenciosa do luto e voltar à vida agitada. Eu ainda não conhecia a dor, e ela continuava a me assustar. Não queria deixar as pessoas que ainda tinha comigo. Acima de tudo, queria ver minha querida Elizabeth consolada de algum modo.

Ela escondia de verdade a própria tristeza e tentava consolar todos nós. Enfrentou a vida com firmeza e assumiu seus deveres com coragem e energia. Dedicou-se àqueles que fora ensinada a chamar de tio e primos. Nunca foi mais encantadora do que então, quando seus sorrisos voltaram e ela os compartilhou conosco. Chegava até a esquecer a própria dor enquanto procurava ajudar-nos a esquecer a nossa.

Original English Version

My departure for Ingolstadt, which had been deferred by these events, was now again determined upon. I obtained from my father a respite of some weeks. It appeared to me sacrilege so soon to leave the repose, akin to death, of the house of mourning, and to rush into the thick of life. I was new to sorrow, but it did not the less alarm me. I was unwilling to quit the sight of those that remained to me; and, above all, I desired to see my sweet Elizabeth in some degree consoled.

She indeed veiled her grief, and strove to act the comforter to us all. She looked steadily on life, and assumed its duties with courage and zeal. She devoted herself to those whom she had been taught to call her uncle and cousins. Never was she so enchanting as at this time, when she recalled the sunshine of her smiles and spent them upon us. She forgot even her own regret in her endeavours to make us forget.

Tradução Integral em Português

Minha partida para Ingolstadt, adiada por esses acontecimentos, estava agora novamente determinada. Obtive de meu pai uma trégua de algumas semanas. Pareceu-me um sacrilégio deixar tão cedo o repouso, semelhante à morte, da casa do luto, e precipitar-se para o meio da vida. Eu era novo no sofrimento, mas nem por isso me alarmou menos. Eu não estava disposto a deixar de ver aqueles que restavam para mim; e, acima de tudo, desejava ver minha doce Elizabeth até certo ponto consolada.

Ela realmente ocultou sua dor e se esforçou para servir de consoladora para todos nós. Ela olhou com firmeza para a vida e assumiu seus deveres com coragem e zelo. Ela se dedicou àqueles a quem aprendeu a chamar de tio e primos. Nunca ela foi tão encantadora como naquela época, quando recordava o brilho do sol de seus sorrisos e os dedicava a nós. Ela esqueceu até mesmo seu próprio arrependimento em seus esforços para nos fazer esquecer.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Por fim chegou o dia de minha partida. Clerval passou a última noite conosco. Tentara convencer o pai a deixá-lo vir e estudar comigo, mas foi inútil. Seu pai era um comerciante de visão estreita e via apenas preguiça e ruína nas esperanças e na ambição do filho. Henry sentia profundamente a perda de uma boa educação. Falava pouco, mas, quando falava, eu via em seus olhos brilhantes e no rosto animado uma decisão oculta, porém firme, de não se prender à vida monótona do comércio.

Ficamos acordados até tarde. Não suportávamos nos separar e nem conseguíamos pronunciar a palavra “Adeus!”. Mas ela foi dita, e fomos para a cama fingindo descansar, cada um pensando que enganava os demais. Ao amanhecer, quando desci até a carruagem que me levaria, todos estavam lá. Meu pai veio novamente abençoar-me. Clerval apertou minha mão uma vez mais. Minha Elizabeth pediu-me novamente que escrevesse com frequência e deu-me sua última demonstração carinhosa de cuidado, como amiga e companheira de infância.

Original English Version

The day of my departure at length arrived. Clerval spent the last evening with us. He had endeavoured to persuade his father to permit him to accompany me, and to become my fellow student; but in vain. His father was a narrow-minded trader, and saw idleness and ruin in the aspirations and ambition of his son. Henry deeply felt the misfortune of being debarred from a liberal education. He said little; but when he spoke, I read in his kindling eye and in his animated glance a restrained but firm resolve, not to be chained to the miserable details of commerce.

We sat late. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend.

Tradução Integral em Português

Chegou finalmente o dia da minha partida. Clerval passou a última noite conosco. Ele havia tentado persuadir seu pai a permitir que ele me acompanhasse e se tornasse meu colega; mas em vão. Seu pai era um comerciante tacanho e via ociosidade e ruína nas aspirações e ambições de seu filho. Henry sentiu profundamente a infelicidade de ter sido excluído de uma educação liberal. Ele falou pouco; mas quando ele falou, li em seus olhos ardentes e em seu olhar animado uma resolução contida, mas firme, de não ser acorrentado aos detalhes miseráveis ​​do comércio.

Sentamos até tarde. Não conseguimos nos separar um do outro, nem nos persuadir a dizer a palavra “Adeus!” Foi dito; e nos retiramos sob o pretexto de buscar repouso, cada um imaginando que o outro estava enganado: mas quando, ao amanhecer, desci para a carruagem que deveria me levar embora, estavam todos lá - meu pai novamente para me abençoar, Clerval para apertar minha mão mais uma vez, minha Elizabeth para renovar suas súplicas que eu escreveria com freqüência, e para conceder as últimas atenções femininas a seu companheiro e amigo.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Entrei na carruagem que me levaria e me entreguei a pensamentos tristes. Sempre estivera cercado de companheiros bondosos, empenhados em dar e compartilhar felicidade. Agora eu estava só. Na universidade para onde ia, teria de fazer meus próprios amigos e cuidar de mim mesmo. Minha vida sempre fora tranquila e centrada no lar, e isso fazia com que eu não gostasse de rostos novos. Amava meus irmãos, Elizabeth e Clerval; eram rostos familiares que eu conhecia bem. Mas acreditava não ter sido feito para a companhia de estranhos. Esses eram meus pensamentos ao iniciar a viagem. Contudo, à medida que avançava, meu ânimo melhorava. Eu desejava intensamente o conhecimento. Em casa, muitas vezes achara difícil passar a juventude preso a um único lugar e ansiara ver o mundo e ocupar meu lugar entre outras pessoas. Agora esse desejo se realizava; seria tolice lamentá-lo.

Original English Version

I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections. I, who had ever been surrounded by amiable companions, continually engaged in endeavouring to bestow mutual pleasure, I was now alone. In the university, whither I was going, I must form my own friends, and be my own protector. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; these were “old familiar faces;” but I believed myself totally unfitted for the company of strangers. Such were my reflections as I commenced my journey; but as I proceeded, my spirits and hopes rose. I ardently desired the acquisition of knowledge. I had often, when at home, thought it hard to remain during my youth cooped up in one place, and had longed to enter the world, and take my station among other human beings. Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have been folly to repent.

Tradução Integral em Português

Atirei-me na espreguiçadeira que me deveria transportar e entreguei-me às mais melancólicas reflexões. Eu, que sempre estive rodeado de companheiros amáveis, continuamente empenhado em esforçar-me para proporcionar prazer mútuo, agora estava sozinho. Na universidade, para onde eu estava indo, deveria formar meus próprios amigos e ser meu próprio protetor. Até então, minha vida tinha sido notavelmente isolada e doméstica; e isso me deu uma repugnância invencível por novos semblantes. Eu amava meus irmãos, Elizabeth e Clerval; estes eram “velhos rostos familiares”; mas eu me considerava totalmente inadequado para a companhia de estranhos. Tais foram minhas reflexões ao iniciar minha jornada; mas à medida que prossegui, meu ânimo e minhas esperanças aumentaram. Desejei ardentemente a aquisição de conhecimento. Muitas vezes, quando estava em casa, pensei que seria difícil permanecer durante minha juventude confinado em um lugar, e ansiava por entrar no mundo e ocupar minha posição entre outros seres humanos. Agora meus desejos foram atendidos e seria, de fato, uma tolice arrepender-me.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Durante a viagem a Ingolstadt, tive tempo suficiente para esses e muitos outros pensamentos. A jornada foi longa e cansativa. Por fim avistei a alta torre branca da cidade. Desci e fui conduzido ao meu quarto solitário, onde passaria a noite como quisesse.

Na manhã seguinte, entreguei minhas cartas de apresentação e visitei alguns dos principais professores. Por acaso, ou melhor, pela influência maligna que parecia guiar-me desde que deixara a casa de meu pai, fui primeiro ao senhor Krempe, professor de filosofia natural. Era um homem de aparência estranha, mas conhecia muito bem sua matéria. Fez-me várias perguntas sobre meu progresso nas diferentes áreas da filosofia natural. Respondi descuidadamente e, quase como uma afronta, disse que lera principalmente as obras dos alquimistas. O professor me encarou. “Você realmente desperdiçou seu tempo com tamanha bobagem?”, perguntou.

Original English Version

I had sufficient leisure for these and many other reflections during my journey to Ingolstadt, which was long and fatiguing. At length the high white steeple of the town met my eyes. I alighted, and was conducted to my solitary apartment, to spend the evening as I pleased.

The next morning I delivered my letters of introduction, and paid a visit to some of the principal professors. Chance - or rather the evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant steps from my father’s door - led me first to Mr. Krempe, professor of natural philosophy. He was an uncouth man, but deeply imbued in the secrets of his science. He asked me several questions concerning my progress in the different branches of science appertaining to natural philosophy. I replied carelessly; and, partly in contempt, mentioned the names of my alchemists as the principal authors I had studied. The professor stared: “Have you,” he said, “really spent your time in studying such nonsense?”

Tradução Integral em Português

Tive tempo suficiente para estas e muitas outras reflexões durante a minha viagem a Ingolstadt, que foi longa e cansativa. Por fim, o alto campanário branco da cidade encontrou meus olhos. Desci e fui conduzido ao meu apartamento solitário, para passar a noite como quisesse.

Na manhã seguinte entreguei minhas cartas de apresentação e visitei alguns dos principais professores. O acaso - ou melhor, a influência maligna, o Anjo da Destruição, que exerceu domínio onipotente sobre mim desde o momento em que desviei meus passos relutantes da porta de meu pai - me levou primeiro ao Sr. Krempe, professor de filosofia natural. Ele era um homem rude, mas profundamente imbuído dos segredos de sua ciência. Ele me fez várias perguntas sobre meu progresso nos diferentes ramos da ciência pertencentes à filosofia natural. Eu respondi descuidadamente; e, em parte por desprezo, mencionei os nomes dos meus alquimistas como os principais autores que estudei. O professor ficou olhando: “Você”, disse ele, “você realmente gastou seu tempo estudando essas bobagens?”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Respondi que sim. “Cada minuto”, disse o senhor Krempe, irritado, “cada instante que você passou nesses livros está inteiramente perdido. Você encheu a memória de ideias falsas e nomes inúteis. Meu Deus! Onde viveu, em que lugar vazio, para que ninguém lhe dissesse que essas velhas fantasias têm mil anos e são tão mofadas quanto antigas? Eu não esperava, nesta era sábia e científica, encontrar um seguidor de Alberto Magno e Paracelso. Meu caro senhor, você precisa recomeçar seus estudos do início.”

Então ele se afastou e anotou uma lista de livros de filosofia natural que queria que eu obtivesse. Em seguida mandou-me embora, dizendo que, no começo da semana seguinte, iniciaria um curso de palestras sobre filosofia natural em geral. Acrescentou que o senhor Waldman, outro professor, daria palestras de química nos dias em que ele não as desse.

Original English Version

I replied in the affirmative. “Every minute,” continued Mr. Krempe with warmth, “every instant that you have wasted on those books is utterly and entirely lost. You have burdened your memory with exploded systems and useless names. Good God! in what desert land have you lived, where no one was kind enough to inform you that these fancies, which you have so greedily imbibed, are a thousand years old, and as musty as they are ancient? I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. My dear sir, you must begin your studies entirely anew.”

So saying, he stepped aside, and wrote down a list of several books treating of natural philosophy, which he desired me to procure; and dismissed me, after mentioning that in the beginning of the following week he intended to commence a course of lectures upon natural philosophy in its general relations, and that M. Waldman, a fellow-professor, would lecture upon chemistry the alternate days that he omitted.

Tradução Integral em Português

Eu respondi afirmativamente. “Cada minuto”, continuou o Sr. Krempe com entusiasmo, “cada instante que você desperdiçou nesses livros é total e inteiramente perdido. Você sobrecarregou sua memória com sistemas explodidos e nomes inúteis. Meu Deus! em que terra deserta você viveu, onde ninguém foi gentil o suficiente para informá-lo de que essas fantasias, que você absorveu com tanta avidez, têm mil anos e são tão bolorentas quanto antigas? Eu pouco esperava, nesta era esclarecida e científica, encontrar um discípulo de Albertus Magnus e Paracelsus Meu caro senhor, vocês devem começar seus estudos inteiramente de novo.

Dizendo isso, ele se afastou e escreveu uma lista de vários livros que tratavam de filosofia natural, que ele desejava que eu comprasse; e me dispensou, após mencionar que no início da semana seguinte ele pretendia iniciar um curso de palestras sobre filosofia natural em suas relações gerais, e que M. Waldman, um colega professor, daria palestras sobre química nos dias alternados que ele omitiu.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Voltei para casa sem me decepcionar, pois já considerava aqueles autores inúteis, como o professor dissera. Ainda assim, não senti maior vontade de estudá-los de novo. O senhor Krempe era baixo e largo, tinha voz áspera e rosto desagradável, e não me fez gostar de sua matéria. Talvez eu tenha explicado minhas primeiras ideias de maneira excessivamente refletida e coerente. Quando criança, eu não me satisfazia com os resultados prometidos pelos mestres da ciência moderna. Como era muito jovem e não tinha guia, minhas ideias eram confusas. Voltei pela história do conhecimento e troquei as descobertas de pensadores recentes pelos sonhos de alquimistas esquecidos. Também desprezava a filosofia natural moderna. Era diferente quando os cientistas buscavam a imortalidade e o poder; embora tais objetivos fossem impossíveis, eram grandiosos. Mas agora as coisas eram diferentes. O objetivo do estudante parecia apenas destruir os próprios sonhos que tornavam a ciência interessante para mim. Pediam-me que abandonasse visões grandiosas e selvagens por verdades comuns de pouco valor.

Original English Version

I returned home, not disappointed, for I have said that I had long considered those authors useless whom the professor reprobated; but I returned, not at all the more inclined to recur to these studies in any shape. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. In rather a too philosophical and connected a strain, perhaps, I have given an account of the conclusions I had come to concerning them in my early years. As a child, I had not been content with the results promised by the modern professors of natural science. With a confusion of ideas only to be accounted for by my extreme youth, and my want of a guide on such matters, I had retrod the steps of knowledge along the paths of time, and exchanged the discoveries of recent enquirers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Besides, I had a contempt for the uses of modern natural philosophy. It was very different, when the masters of the science sought immortality and power; such views, although futile, were grand: but now the scene was changed. The ambition of the enquirer seemed to limit itself to the annihilation of those visions on which my interest in science was chiefly founded. I was required to exchange chimeras of boundless grandeur for realities of little worth.

Tradução Integral em Português

Voltei para casa, não desapontado, pois disse que há muito considerava inúteis aqueles autores que o professor reprovava; mas voltei, nem um pouco mais inclinado a recorrer a esses estudos de qualquer forma. O Sr. Krempe era um homenzinho atarracado, com uma voz rouca e um semblante repulsivo; o professor, portanto, não me convenceu a favor de seus objetivos. Num tom um tanto filosófico e conectado, talvez, apresentei um relato das conclusões a que cheguei a respeito deles em meus primeiros anos. Quando criança, não me contentei com os resultados prometidos pelos modernos professores de ciências naturais. Com uma confusão de ideias que só pode ser explicada pela minha extrema juventude e pela minha falta de um guia sobre tais assuntos, retrocedi os passos do conhecimento ao longo dos caminhos do tempo e troquei as descobertas de investigadores recentes pelos sonhos de alquimistas esquecidos. Além disso, eu desprezava os usos da filosofia natural moderna. Foi muito diferente quando os mestres da ciência buscaram a imortalidade e o poder; tais opiniões, embora fúteis, eram grandiosas: mas agora o cenário mudou. A ambição do investigador parecia limitar-se à aniquilação daquelas visões nas quais se baseava principalmente o meu interesse pela ciência. Fui obrigado a trocar quimeras de grandeza sem limites por realidades de pouco valor.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Durante meus primeiros dois ou três dias em Ingolstadt, passei a maior parte do tempo conhecendo a cidade e as principais pessoas de meu novo lar. Mas, quando a semana seguinte começou, lembrei-me do que o senhor Krempe me dissera sobre as palestras. Eu não suportava ouvir aquele homenzinho orgulhoso falar de um púlpito, mas me recordava do que ele havia dito sobre o senhor Waldman, a quem eu nunca vira porque estivera fora da cidade até então.

Original English Version

Such were my reflections during the first two or three days of my residence at Ingolstadt, which were chiefly spent in becoming acquainted with the localities, and the principal residents in my new abode. But as the ensuing week commenced, I thought of the information which Mr. Krempe had given me concerning the lectures. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town.

Tradução Integral em Português

Tais foram minhas reflexões durante os primeiros dois ou três dias de minha residência em Ingolstadt, que foram gastos principalmente no conhecimento das localidades e dos principais residentes de minha nova residência. Mas no início da semana seguinte, pensei nas informações que o Sr. Krempe me deu sobre as palestras. E embora eu não pudesse consentir em ir ouvir aquele sujeitinho vaidoso proferir sentenças no púlpito, lembrei-me do que ele havia dito sobre M. Waldman, a quem eu nunca tinha visto, pois até então ele estivera fora da cidade.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Por curiosidade e tédio, fui à sala de palestras, e o senhor Waldman entrou logo depois. Era muito diferente do colega. Parecia ter cerca de cinquenta anos, e seu rosto revelava grande bondade. Tinha alguns fios grisalhos nas têmporas, embora os cabelos na parte de trás da cabeça ainda fossem quase pretos. Era baixo, mas mantinha-se muito ereto, e sua voz era a mais doce que eu já ouvira. Começou pela história da química e pelas mudanças feitas por diferentes estudiosos, pronunciando com grande emoção os nomes dos grandes descobridores. Em seguida, apresentou brevemente o estado atual da ciência e explicou muitos termos básicos. Depois de alguns experimentos simples, concluiu com alto elogio à química moderna, palavras que eu jamais esqueceria:

Original English Version

Partly from curiosity, and partly from idleness, I went into the lecturing room, which M. Waldman entered shortly after. This professor was very unlike his colleague. He appeared about fifty years of age, but with an aspect expressive of the greatest benevolence; a few grey hairs covered his temples, but those at the back of his head were nearly black. His person was short, but remarkably erect; and his voice the sweetest I had ever heard. He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. He then took a cursory view of the present state of the science, and explained many of its elementary terms. After having made a few preparatory experiments, he concluded with a panegyric upon modern chemistry, the terms of which I shall never forget: -

Tradução Integral em Português

Em parte por curiosidade e em parte por ociosidade, entrei na sala de aula, na qual M. Waldman entrou pouco depois. Este professor era muito diferente de seu colega. Ele parecia ter cerca de cinquenta anos de idade, mas com um aspecto que expressava a maior benevolência; alguns fios de cabelo grisalhos cobriam suas têmporas, mas os da parte de trás da cabeça eram quase pretos. Sua pessoa era baixa, mas notavelmente ereta; e sua voz a mais doce que eu já ouvi. Ele começou sua palestra recapitulando a história da química e os vários avanços feitos por diferentes estudiosos, pronunciando com fervor os nomes dos mais ilustres descobridores. Ele então fez uma visão superficial do estado atual da ciência e explicou muitos de seus termos elementares. Depois de ter feito algumas experiências preparatórias, concluiu com um panegírico sobre a química moderna, cujos termos nunca esquecerei:

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Os antigos mestres dessa ciência”, disse ele, “prometiam coisas impossíveis e nada faziam. Os mestres modernos prometem muito pouco; sabem que os metais não podem ser transformados em outros metais e que o elixir da vida é apenas um sonho. Mas esses pensadores, cujas mãos parecem feitas apenas para a sujeira e cujos olhos espiam pelo microscópio ou pelo cadinho, realmente fizeram maravilhas. Penetram profundamente na natureza e mostram como ela trabalha em segredo. Elevam-se aos céus: descobriram como o sangue circula no corpo e como é o ar que respiramos. Adquiriram novos poderes sem medida. Podem comandar o trovão, imitar um terremoto e até zombar do mundo invisível com suas próprias sombras.”

Original English Version

“The ancient teachers of this science,” said he, “promised impossibilities, and performed nothing. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted, and that the elixir of life is a chimera. But these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. They penetrate into the recesses of nature, and show how she works in her hiding places. They ascend into the heavens: they have discovered how the blood circulates, and the nature of the air we breathe. They have acquired new and almost unlimited powers; they can command the thunders of heaven, mimic the earthquake, and even mock the invisible world with its own shadows.”

Tradução Integral em Português

“Os antigos professores desta ciência”, disse ele, “prometeram impossibilidades e nada cumpriram. Os mestres modernos prometem muito pouco; eles sabem que os metais não podem ser transmutados e que o elixir da vida é uma quimera. Mas esses filósofos, cujas mãos parecem feitas apenas para mexer na sujeira e seus olhos para se debruçarem sobre o microscópio ou o cadinho, de fato realizaram milagres. Eles penetram nos recessos da natureza e mostram como ela trabalha em seus esconderijos. Eles ascendem ao céus: eles descobriram como o sangue circula e a natureza do ar que respiramos. Eles adquiriram poderes novos e quase ilimitados, podem comandar os trovões do céu, imitar o terremoto e até zombar do mundo invisível com suas próprias sombras.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Essas foram as palavras do professor, ou melhor, as palavras do destino, pronunciadas para me destruir. Enquanto ele continuava, senti como se minha alma lutasse contra um inimigo verdadeiro. Uma a uma, as teclas do meu ser foram tocadas. Logo minha mente estava cheia de um único pensamento, um plano e um propósito. Tanto já foi feito, clamou a alma de Frankenstein, e eu farei mais, muito mais. Seguirei o caminho já marcado, abrirei um novo, explorarei poderes desconhecidos e revelarei ao mundo os segredos mais profundos da criação.

Original English Version

Such were the professor’s words - rather let me say such the words of fate, enounced to destroy me. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were grappling with a palpable enemy; one by one the various keys were touched which formed the mechanism of my being: chord after chord was sounded, and soon my mind was filled with one thought, one conception, one purpose. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation.

Tradução Integral em Português

Essas foram as palavras do professor - deixe-me dizer essas palavras do destino, pronunciadas para me destruir. À medida que ele prosseguia, senti como se minha alma estivesse lutando contra um inimigo palpável; uma por uma, foram tocadas as várias teclas que formavam o mecanismo do meu ser: acorde após acorde foram tocados, e logo minha mente foi preenchida com um pensamento, uma concepção, um propósito. Tanto foi feito, exclamou a alma de Frankenstein - mais, muito mais, conseguirei: seguindo os passos já marcados, serei pioneiro em um novo caminho, explorarei poderes desconhecidos e revelarei ao mundo os mistérios mais profundos da criação.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Não fechei os olhos naquela noite. Meu íntimo estava em rebelião e confusão. Sentia que dali surgiria ordem, mas não tinha poder para criá-la. Depois do amanhecer, adormeci aos poucos. Ao despertar, meus pensamentos da noite anterior pareciam um sonho. Restava apenas uma decisão: eu voltaria aos antigos estudos e me dedicaria a uma ciência para a qual acreditava ter talento natural. No mesmo dia, visitei o senhor Waldman. Em particular, ele era ainda mais gentil e agradável do que em público. Em sua palestra, tinha certa dignidade; em casa, ela era substituída por grande calor humano e bondade. Dei-lhe quase o mesmo relato de meus estudos anteriores que dera ao colega. Ele ouviu atentamente minha história e sorriu aos nomes de Cornelius Agrippa e Paracelso, mas sem o desprezo demonstrado pelo senhor Krempe. Disse que esses homens, por seu trabalho incansável, haviam fornecido aos filósofos modernos boa parte dos fundamentos de seu saber. Deixaram-nos a tarefa mais fácil de dar novos nomes e organizar os fatos que ajudaram a descobrir. Acrescentou que o trabalho das grandes mentes, mesmo quando parcialmente equivocado, quase sempre acaba ajudando a humanidade. Eu o ouvi e então lhe contei que sua palestra mudara minha aversão aos químicos modernos. Falei com cuidado e respeito, como um jovem deve falar ao professor, sem mostrar a excitação que sentia por dentro. Perguntei-lhe que livros deveria obter.

Original English Version

I closed not my eyes that night. My internal being was in a state of insurrection and turmoil; I felt that order would thence arise, but I had no power to produce it. By degrees, after the morning’s dawn, sleep came. I awoke, and my yesternight’s thoughts were as a dream. There only remained a resolution to return to my ancient studies, and to devote myself to a science for which I believed myself to possess a natural talent. On the same day, I paid M. Waldman a visit. His manners in private were even more mild and attractive than in public; for there was a certain dignity in his mien during his lecture, which in his own house was replaced by the greatest affability and kindness. I gave him pretty nearly the same account of my former pursuits as I had given to his fellow-professor. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. He said, that “these were men to whose indefatigable zeal modern philosophers were indebted for most of the foundations of their knowledge. They had left to us, as an easier task, to give new names, and arrange in connected classifications, the facts which they in a great degree had been the instruments of bringing to light. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. I requested his advice concerning the books I ought to procure.

Tradução Integral em Português

Não fechei os olhos naquela noite. Meu ser interno estava num estado de insurreição e turbulência; Senti que daí surgiria a ordem, mas não tinha poder para produzi-la. Aos poucos, depois do amanhecer, o sono chegou. Acordei e meus pensamentos de ontem à noite pareciam um sonho. Restava apenas a resolução de retornar aos meus antigos estudos e de me dedicar a uma ciência para a qual eu acreditava possuir um talento natural. No mesmo dia, fiz uma visita ao Sr. Waldman. Suas maneiras em privado eram ainda mais suaves e atraentes do que em público; pois havia uma certa dignidade em seu semblante durante a palestra, que em sua própria casa foi substituída pela maior afabilidade e gentileza. Dei-lhe praticamente o mesmo relato de minhas atividades anteriores que dei ao seu colega professor. Ele ouviu com atenção a pequena narração sobre meus estudos e sorriu ao ouvir os nomes de Cornélio Agripa e Paracelso, mas sem o desprezo que o Sr. Krempe havia demonstrado. Ele disse que "esses eram homens a cujo zelo infatigável os filósofos modernos deviam a maior parte dos fundamentos de seu conhecimento. Eles nos deixaram, como uma tarefa mais fácil, dar novos nomes e organizar em classificações conectadas, os fatos que eles, em grande medida, foram os instrumentos para trazer à luz. Os trabalhos de homens de gênio, por mais erroneamente direcionados, raramente falham em, em última análise, transformar-se em sólida vantagem para a humanidade". Ouvi o seu depoimento, que foi proferido sem qualquer presunção ou afetação; e então acrescentei que sua palestra havia removido meus preconceitos contra os químicos modernos; Expressei-me em termos comedidos, com a modéstia e a deferência devidas a um jovem para com o seu instrutor, sem deixar escapar (a inexperiência na vida teria me envergonhado) qualquer entusiasmo que estimulasse os meus trabalhos pretendidos. Solicitei seu conselho sobre os livros que deveria adquirir.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Fico feliz”, disse o senhor Waldman, “por ter conquistado um aluno. Se seu esforço corresponder à sua capacidade, não tenho dúvida de que terá sucesso. A química é a área da filosofia natural em que se fez - e ainda se pode fazer - o maior progresso. É por isso que a estudo tão de perto. Mas não ignorei as outras ciências. Um homem seria um mau químico se estudasse apenas essa matéria. Se deseja realmente tornar-se um homem de ciência, e não apenas um pequeno experimentador, aconselho-o a estudar todos os ramos da filosofia natural, incluindo a matemática.”

Então ele me levou ao laboratório e explicou como funcionavam seus diversos aparelhos. Disse-me o que eu deveria comprar e prometeu que mais tarde eu poderia usar seu próprio equipamento, quando soubesse o suficiente para não danificá-lo. Também me deu a lista de livros que eu pedira, e então parti.

Original English Version

“I am happy,” said M. Waldman, “to have gained a disciple; and if your application equals your ability, I have no doubt of your success. Chemistry is that branch of natural philosophy in which the greatest improvements have been and may be made: it is on that account that I have made it my peculiar study; but at the same time I have not neglected the other branches of science. A man would make but a very sorry chemist if he attended to that department of human knowledge alone. If your wish is to become really a man of science, and not merely a petty experimentalist, I should advise you to apply to every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics.”

He then took me into his laboratory, and explained to me the uses of his various machines; instructing me as to what I ought to procure, and promising me the use of his own when I should have advanced far enough in the science not to derange their mechanism. He also gave me the list of books which I had requested; and I took my leave.

Tradução Integral em Português

"Estou feliz", disse M. Waldman, "por ter ganhado um discípulo; e se sua aplicação for igual à sua habilidade, não tenho dúvidas de seu sucesso. A química é o ramo da filosofia natural no qual as maiores melhorias foram e podem ser feitas: é por esse motivo que fiz dela meu estudo peculiar; mas, ao mesmo tempo, não negligenciei os outros ramos da ciência. Um homem seria um químico muito lamentável se atendesse apenas a esse departamento do conhecimento humano. Se o seu desejo é se tornar sendo realmente um homem da ciência, e não apenas um experimentalista mesquinho, eu deveria aconselhá-lo a aplicar-se a todos os ramos da filosofia natural, incluindo a matemática.”

Ele então me levou ao seu laboratório e me explicou os usos de suas diversas máquinas; instruindo-me sobre o que eu deveria adquirir e prometendo-me o uso dos seus quando eu tivesse avançado o suficiente na ciência para não perturbar seu mecanismo. Ele também me deu a lista de livros que eu havia solicitado; e eu me despedi.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Assim terminou um dia de que eu sempre me lembraria, pois decidiu meu futuro.

Original English Version

Thus ended a day memorable to me: it decided my future destiny.

Tradução Integral em Português

Assim terminou um dia memorável para mim: decidiu o meu destino futuro.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Chapter IV

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Daquele dia em diante, a filosofia natural, especialmente a química, tornou-se quase meu único trabalho. Li avidamente os livros dos pesquisadores modernos, cheios de habilidade e reflexão cuidadosa. Assisti às palestras e conheci os cientistas da universidade. Até no senhor Krempe encontrei muito bom senso e conhecimento verdadeiro, embora seu rosto e suas maneiras fossem desagradáveis. O senhor Waldman tornou-se um verdadeiro amigo para mim. Nunca era rígido ou obstinado. Ensinava com honestidade e bondade e jamais parecia orgulhoso ou pedante. De muitas formas, tornou mais fácil para mim o caminho do aprendizado e esclareceu assuntos difíceis. No início, meus estudos eram irregulares e incertos, mas se fortaleceram com o tempo. Logo meu desejo se tornou tão grande que eu frequentemente ficava no laboratório até que a luz da manhã apagasse as estrelas.

Original English Version

From this day natural philosophy, and particularly chemistry, in the most comprehensive sense of the term, became nearly my sole occupation. I read with ardour those works, so full of genius and discrimination, which modern enquirers have written on these subjects. I attended the lectures, and cultivated the acquaintance, of the men of science of the university; and I found even in M. Krempe a great deal of sound sense and real information, combined, it is true, with a repulsive physiognomy and manners, but not on that account the less valuable. In M. Waldman I found a true friend. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. My application was at first fluctuating and uncertain; it gained strength as I proceeded, and soon became so ardent and eager, that the stars often disappeared in the light of morning whilst I was yet engaged in my laboratory.

Tradução Integral em Português

A partir desse dia, a filosofia natural, e particularmente a química, no sentido mais abrangente do termo, tornou-se quase a minha única ocupação. Li com ardor aquelas obras, tão cheias de genialidade e discriminação, que os investigadores modernos escreveram sobre estes assuntos. Assisti às palestras e cultivei o conhecimento dos homens de ciência da universidade; e encontrei até mesmo em M. Krempe uma grande quantidade de bom senso e informações reais, combinadas, é verdade, com uma fisionomia e maneiras repulsivas, mas nem por isso menos valiosas. Em M. Waldman encontrei um verdadeiro amigo. Sua gentileza nunca foi tingida de dogmatismo; e suas instruções foram dadas com um ar de franqueza e boa índole, que baniu toda ideia de pedantismo. De mil maneiras ele facilitou para mim o caminho do conhecimento e tornou claras e fáceis de compreender as investigações mais abstrusas. Minha aplicação foi inicialmente flutuante e incerta; ganhou força à medida que eu prosseguia, e logo se tornou tão ardente e ansiosa, que as estrelas muitas vezes desapareciam à luz da manhã enquanto eu ainda estava ocupado em meu laboratório.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Como trabalhava tão arduamente, avancei depressa. Meu entusiasmo surpreendia os estudantes, e minha habilidade surpreendia os professores. O professor Krempe muitas vezes me perguntava, com um sorriso malicioso, como ia Cornelius Agrippa, enquanto o senhor Waldman se alegrava de verdade com meu êxito. Dois anos passaram assim, e não visitei Genebra. Coloquei todo o coração nas descobertas que esperava fazer. Só quem sentiu isso pode entender o poder da ciência. Em outros estudos, só se pode seguir o caminho que outros já percorreram, e nada de novo resta a aprender. Mas a ciência sempre oferece descobertas e maravilhas novas. Uma pessoa de capacidade comum que estude cuidadosamente uma matéria certamente se tornará muito hábil nela. Continuei buscando um único objetivo e, por isso, progredi tão rápido que, após dois anos, fiz algumas descobertas para aperfeiçoar instrumentos químicos. Elas me trouxeram grande respeito e admiração na universidade. Então eu conhecia a teoria e a prática da filosofia natural tão bem quanto as lições dos professores de Ingolstadt podiam ensinar. Como permanecer ali já não podia ajudar meu aperfeiçoamento, pensei em voltar aos amigos e à cidade natal, mas então aconteceu algo que me fez ficar mais tempo.

Original English Version

As I applied so closely, it may be easily conceived that my progress was rapid. My ardour was indeed the astonishment of the students, and my proficiency that of the masters. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Two years passed in this manner, during which I paid no visit to Geneva, but was engaged, heart and soul, in the pursuit of some discoveries, which I hoped to make. None but those who have experienced them can conceive of the enticements of science. In other studies you go as far as others have gone before you, and there is nothing more to know; but in a scientific pursuit there is continual food for discovery and wonder. A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay.

Tradução Integral em Português

Como me candidatei tão minuciosamente, pode-se facilmente imaginar que meu progresso foi rápido. Meu ardor foi de fato o espanto dos estudantes, e minha proficiência o dos mestres. O professor Krempe muitas vezes me perguntava, com um sorriso malicioso, como era a situação de Cornélio Agripa? enquanto M. Waldman expressou a mais sincera exultação em meu progresso. Assim se passaram dois anos, durante os quais não fiz nenhuma visita a Genebra, mas estive empenhado, de coração e alma, na busca de algumas descobertas que esperava fazer. Ninguém, exceto aqueles que os experimentaram, pode conceber os atrativos da ciência. Em outros estudos você vai tão longe quanto outros foram antes de você, e não há mais nada a saber; mas na busca científica há alimento contínuo para descoberta e admiração. Uma mente de capacidade moderada, que se dedica de perto a um estudo, deve infalivelmente chegar a grande proficiência nesse estudo; e eu, que buscava continuamente a obtenção de um objetivo de busca, e estava unicamente envolvido nisso, melhorei tão rapidamente que, ao final de dois anos, fiz algumas descobertas no aprimoramento de alguns instrumentos químicos, o que me rendeu grande estima e admiração na universidade. Quando cheguei a este ponto, e me tornei tão familiarizado com a teoria e a prática da filosofia natural quanto dependia das lições de qualquer um dos professores de Ingolstadt, e minha residência lá não era mais propícia para minhas melhorias, pensei em retornar para meus amigos e minha cidade natal, quando aconteceu um incidente que prolongou minha estada.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Uma coisa que me chamou especialmente a atenção foi a estrutura do corpo humano e de qualquer animal vivo. Eu frequentemente me perguntava de onde vinha a vida. Era uma pergunta audaciosa, sempre considerada um mistério. Contudo, estamos perto de aprender muitas coisas, se o medo ou o descuido não nos detiverem. Refleti sobre isso e decidi estudar mais a filosofia natural, sobretudo a fisiologia. Sem uma excitação intensa e quase antinatural, esse estudo teria sido muito difícil para mim. Para compreender a vida, é preciso primeiro estudar a morte. Aprendi anatomia, mas isso não bastava. Também precisava observar a decomposição natural do corpo humano. Meu pai tivera grande cuidado em proteger minha mente dos medos sobrenaturais. Eu não temia histórias de fantasmas, espíritos ou a escuridão. Um cemitério era apenas o lugar onde jaziam corpos mortos, corpos antes belos e fortes, mas agora alimento de vermes. Então precisei estudar como a decomposição começa e cresce, e passei dias e noites em criptas e ossários. Observei coisas que perturbam profundamente os sentimentos humanos. Vi como o belo corpo humano se torna fraco e arruinado, como a morte segue a vida e como os vermes tomam o que antes foi olho e cérebro. Estudei cada pequena causa e transformação, até que de repente me ocorreu uma ideia luminosa, maravilhosa e simples. Espantou-me que, entre tantos grandes homens que estudaram o mesmo assunto, só eu tivesse encontrado esse segredo assombroso.

Original English Version

One of the phenomena which had peculiarly attracted my attention was the structure of the human frame, and, indeed, any animal endued with life. Whence, I often asked myself, did the principle of life proceed? It was a bold question, and one which has ever been considered as a mystery; yet with how many things are we upon the brink of becoming acquainted, if cowardice or carelessness did not restrain our enquiries. I revolved these circumstances in my mind, and determined thenceforth to apply myself more particularly to those branches of natural philosophy which relate to physiology. Unless I had been animated by an almost supernatural enthusiasm, my application to this study would have been irksome, and almost intolerable. To examine the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death. I became acquainted with the science of anatomy: but this was not sufficient; I must also observe the natural decay and corruption of the human body. In my education my father had taken the greatest precautions that my mind should be impressed with no supernatural horrors. I do not ever remember to have trembled at a tale of superstition, or to have feared the apparition of a spirit. Darkness had no effect upon my fancy; and a churchyard was to me merely the receptacle of bodies deprived of life, which, from being the seat of beauty and strength, had become food for the worm. Now I was led to examine the cause and progress of this decay, and forced to spend days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. My attention was fixed upon every object the most insupportable to the delicacy of the human feelings. I saw how the fine form of man was degraded and wasted; I beheld the corruption of death succeed to the blooming cheek of life; I saw how the worm inherited the wonders of the eye and brain. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret.

Tradução Integral em Português

Um dos fenômenos que atraiu minha atenção de maneira peculiar foi a estrutura do corpo humano e, na verdade, de qualquer animal dotado de vida. De onde, muitas vezes me perguntei, surgiu o princípio da vida? Foi uma questão ousada e que sempre foi considerada um mistério; contudo, com quantas coisas estaríamos prestes a nos familiarizar, se a covardia ou o descuido não restringissem nossas investigações. Revolvi essas circunstâncias em minha mente e decidi, a partir de então, aplicar-me mais particularmente aos ramos da filosofia natural que se relacionam com a fisiologia. A menos que eu tivesse sido animado por um entusiasmo quase sobrenatural, minha aplicação a este estudo teria sido cansativa e quase intolerável. Para examinar as causas da vida, devemos primeiro recorrer à morte. Conheci a ciência da anatomia: mas isso não foi suficiente; Devo também observar a decadência natural e a corrupção do corpo humano. Na minha educação, meu pai tomou as maiores precauções para que minha mente não ficasse impressionada com horrores sobrenaturais. Não me lembro de alguma vez ter tremido diante de uma história de superstição, ou de ter temido a aparição de um espírito. A escuridão não afetou minha imaginação; e um cemitério era para mim apenas o receptáculo de corpos privados de vida, que, de sede de beleza e força, se tornaram alimento para o verme. Agora fui levado a examinar a causa e o progresso dessa decadência e forçado a passar dias e noites em criptas e cemitérios. Minha atenção estava fixada em todos os objetos mais insuportáveis ​​à delicadeza dos sentimentos humanos. Vi como a bela forma do homem foi degradada e desperdiçada; Vi a corrupção da morte suceder-se à face florescente da vida; Vi como o verme herdou as maravilhas do olho e do cérebro. Fiz uma pausa, examinando e analisando todas as minúcias da causalidade, como exemplificado na mudança da vida para a morte, e da morte para a vida, até que, do meio dessa escuridão, uma luz repentina irrompeu sobre mim - uma luz tão brilhante e maravilhosa, mas tão simples, que enquanto eu ficava tonto com a imensidão da perspectiva que ela ilustrava, fiquei surpreso, que entre tantos homens de gênio que dirigiram suas pesquisas para a mesma ciência, eu sozinho deveria estar reservado para descobrir tão um segredo surpreendente.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Lembre-se: não estou narrando o sonho de um louco. O que digo é tão verdadeiro quanto o sol que brilha no céu. Um milagre pode ter ajudado, mas os passos de minha descoberta foram claros e prováveis. Após dias e noites de trabalho e exaustão extremos, descobri a causa da vida e do nascimento. Mais do que isso: tornei-me capaz de dar vida à matéria morta.

No início fiquei maravilhado, mas logo essa sensação se transformou em alegria e entusiasmo. Depois de tanto trabalho doloroso, alcançar o auge de meu desejo foi grande recompensa. Contudo, a descoberta era tão imensa que esqueci os muitos passos que me levaram até ela e só enxergava o resultado. Aquilo que os homens mais sábios buscavam desde o começo do mundo estava agora em minhas mãos. Não surgiu de uma vez, como por magia. O que aprendi bastava para guiar meus esforços quando os dirigia ao objetivo, mas não para mostrar o resultado acabado. Eu era como o árabe sepultado com os mortos, que encontrou um caminho de volta à vida ajudado apenas por uma luz fraca e quase inútil.

Original English Version

Remember, I am not recording the vision of a madman. The sun does not more certainly shine in the heavens, than that which I now affirm is true. Some miracle might have produced it, yet the stages of the discovery were distinct and probable. After days and nights of incredible labour and fatigue, I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life; nay, more, I became myself capable of bestowing animation upon lifeless matter.

The astonishment which I had at first experienced on this discovery soon gave place to delight and rapture. After so much time spent in painful labour, to arrive at once at the summit of my desires, was the most gratifying consummation of my toils. But this discovery was so great and overwhelming, that all the steps by which I had been progressively led to it were obliterated, and I beheld only the result. What had been the study and desire of the wisest men since the creation of the world was now within my grasp. Not that, like a magic scene, it all opened upon me at once: the information I had obtained was of a nature rather to direct my endeavours so soon as I should point them towards the object of my search, than to exhibit that object already accomplished. I was like the Arabian who had been buried with the dead, and found a passage to life, aided only by one glimmering, and seemingly ineffectual, light.

Tradução Integral em Português

Lembre-se, não estou registrando a visão de um louco. O sol não brilha mais certamente nos céus do que aquilo que agora afirmo ser verdade. Algum milagre poderia ter produzido isso, mas os estágios da descoberta eram distintos e prováveis. Depois de dias e noites de trabalho e fadiga incríveis, consegui descobrir a causa da geração e da vida; não, mais ainda, tornei-me capaz de conferir animação à matéria sem vida.

O espanto que inicialmente experimentei com esta descoberta logo deu lugar ao deleite e ao êxtase. Depois de tanto tempo gasto em trabalhos penosos, chegar imediatamente ao cume dos meus desejos foi a consumação mais gratificante das minhas labutas. Mas esta descoberta foi tão grande e avassaladora que todos os passos pelos quais fui progressivamente levado a ela foram obliterados, e contemplei apenas o resultado. O que tinha sido o estudo e o desejo dos homens mais sábios desde a criação do mundo estava agora ao meu alcance. Não que, como numa cena mágica, tudo se abrisse sobre mim de uma só vez: a informação que eu obtivera era mais de natureza a direcionar meus esforços assim que eu os apontasse para o objeto de minha busca, do que a exibir esse objetivo já realizado. Eu era como o árabe que foi enterrado com os mortos e encontrou uma passagem para a vida, auxiliado apenas por uma luz brilhante e aparentemente ineficaz.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Vejo por sua ansiedade e pelo espanto em seus olhos que deseja conhecer o segredo que aprendi. Não posso revelá-lo agora. Ouça com paciência até o fim de minha história e entenderá por que o escondo. Não quero conduzi-lo, como um dia fui conduzido, à destruição e à miséria certa. Aprenda comigo, se não por meu conselho, ao menos por meu exemplo, quão perigoso pode ser o conhecimento. Uma pessoa é mais feliz se considera sua pequena cidade o mundo inteiro do que se tenta tornar-se maior do que sua natureza permite.

Original English Version

I see by your eagerness, and the wonder and hope which your eyes express, my friend, that you expect to be informed of the secret with which I am acquainted; that cannot be: listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will easily perceive why I am reserved upon that subject. I will not lead you on, unguarded and ardent as I then was, to your destruction and infallible misery. Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow.

Tradução Integral em Português

Vejo pela sua ansiedade e pela admiração e esperança que seus olhos expressam, meu amigo, que você espera ser informado do segredo que conheço; isso não pode ser: ouça pacientemente até o final da minha história e você perceberá facilmente por que sou reservado nesse assunto. Não vou levá-lo, desprotegido e ardente como estava então, à sua destruição e miséria infalível. Aprenda comigo, se não pelos meus preceitos, pelo menos pelo meu exemplo, quão perigosa é a aquisição de conhecimento, e quão mais feliz é aquele homem que acredita que sua cidade natal é o mundo, do que aquele que aspira tornar-se maior do que sua natureza permite.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ao descobrir tamanho poder em minhas mãos, hesitei por muito tempo sobre como empregá-lo. Embora pudesse dar vida, preparar um corpo com tantas fibras, músculos e veias ainda exigia um trabalho incrivelmente difícil. Primeiro pensei se devia criar um ser semelhante a mim ou um mais simples, mas meu êxito inicial fez-me acreditar que poderia dar vida a um animal tão complexo e maravilhoso quanto um ser humano. Os materiais de que dispunha mal bastavam para tarefa tão difícil, mas acreditava que por fim teria êxito. Esperava muitos fracassos. Meu trabalho poderia ser interrompido repetidamente e, no final, ainda ser imperfeito. Mas eu também sabia que a ciência e as máquinas melhoram a cada dia, e esperava que meu trabalho ao menos ajudasse o êxito futuro. Não achei que a dimensão e a dificuldade do plano significassem que ele não pudesse ser realizado. Com esses sentimentos, comecei a criar um ser humano. Como as partes minúsculas me atrasavam demais, decidi, contrariando meu primeiro plano, fazer a criatura muito grande, com cerca de oito pés de altura e bem proporcionada. Depois dessa decisão e de vários meses reunindo e organizando os materiais, comecei.

Original English Version

When I found so astonishing a power placed within my hands, I hesitated a long time concerning the manner in which I should employ it. Although I possessed the capacity of bestowing animation, yet to prepare a frame for the reception of it, with all its intricacies of fibres, muscles, and veins, still remained a work of inconceivable difficulty and labour. I doubted at first whether I should attempt the creation of a being like myself, or one of simpler organization; but my imagination was too much exalted by my first success to permit me to doubt of my ability to give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as man. The materials at present within my command hardly appeared adequate to so arduous an undertaking; but I doubted not that I should ultimately succeed. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Nor could I consider the magnitude and complexity of my plan as any argument of its impracticability. It was with these feelings that I began the creation of a human being. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. After having formed this determination, and having spent some months in successfully collecting and arranging my materials, I began.

Tradução Integral em Português

Quando descobri um poder tão surpreendente colocado em minhas mãos, hesitei por muito tempo sobre a maneira como deveria empregá-lo. Embora eu possuísse a capacidade de transmitir animação, preparar um quadro para recebê-la, com todos os seus meandros de fibras, músculos e veias, ainda era um trabalho de dificuldade e trabalho inconcebíveis. A princípio duvidei se deveria tentar a criação de um ser como eu, ou de uma organização mais simples; mas a minha imaginação ficou demasiado exaltada pelo meu primeiro sucesso para me permitir duvidar da minha capacidade de dar vida a um animal tão complexo e maravilhoso como o homem. Os materiais atualmente sob meu comando dificilmente pareciam adequados para um empreendimento tão árduo; mas não duvidei de que acabaria conseguindo. Preparei-me para uma infinidade de reveses; minhas operações poderiam ser incessantemente frustradas e, finalmente, meu trabalho ser imperfeito: ainda assim, quando considerei o progresso que ocorre todos os dias na ciência e na mecânica, fui encorajado a esperar que minhas tentativas atuais pelo menos estabelecessem as bases do sucesso futuro. Nem poderia considerar a magnitude e a complexidade do meu plano como qualquer argumento da sua impraticabilidade. Foi com esses sentimentos que comecei a criação de um ser humano. Como a pequenez das partes constituía um grande obstáculo à minha velocidade, resolvi, ao contrário da minha intenção inicial, fazer o ser de uma estatura gigantesca; isto é, cerca de 2,5 metros de altura e proporcionalmente grande. Depois de ter formado essa determinação e de ter passado alguns meses coletando e organizando com sucesso meus materiais, comecei.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ninguém pode imaginar os muitos sentimentos que me impeliam como um furacão na primeira alegria do êxito. A vida e a morte pareciam limites que eu poderia transpor, e pensei que lançaria uma torrente de luz em nosso mundo sombrio. Uma nova espécie me abençoaria como seu criador. Muitos seres bons e felizes me deveriam a vida. Nenhum pai poderia conquistar a gratidão de um filho tão plenamente quanto eu mereceria a deles. Ao refletir sobre isso, acreditei que, se podia dar vida à matéria morta, talvez um dia, embora agora parecesse impossível, pudesse restaurar a vida a um corpo que a morte já encaminhara à decomposição.

Original English Version

No one can conceive the variety of feelings which bore me onwards, like a hurricane, in the first enthusiasm of success. Life and death appeared to me ideal bounds, which I should first break through, and pour a torrent of light into our dark world. A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me. No father could claim the gratitude of his child so completely as I should deserve theirs. Pursuing these reflections, I thought, that if I could bestow animation upon lifeless matter, I might in process of time (although I now found it impossible) renew life where death had apparently devoted the body to corruption.

Tradução Integral em Português

Ninguém pode conceber a variedade de sentimentos que me levaram adiante, como um furacão, no primeiro entusiasmo do sucesso. A vida e a morte pareciam-me limites ideais, que eu deveria primeiro romper e derramar uma torrente de luz em nosso mundo sombrio. Uma nova espécie me abençoaria como seu criador e fonte; muitas naturezas felizes e excelentes deveriam sua existência a mim. Nenhum pai poderia reivindicar a gratidão de seu filho tão completamente quanto eu deveria merecer a deles. Prosseguindo com essas reflexões, pensei que, se eu pudesse conferir animação à matéria sem vida, poderia com o passar do tempo (embora agora achasse isso impossível) renovar a vida onde a morte aparentemente havia devotado o corpo à corrupção.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Esses pensamentos me mantinham ativo enquanto trabalhava com energia constante. O estudo deixara meu rosto pálido, e o confinamento tornara meu corpo magro. Às vezes chegava muito perto do êxito e então falhava, mas ainda me prendia à esperança de que o dia seguinte, ou mesmo a hora seguinte, pudesse trazê-lo. A esperança era o segredo pelo qual eu vivia. A lua observava meu trabalho noturno enquanto eu perscrutava sem descanso os lugares ocultos da natureza. Quem poderia imaginar o horror de meu labor secreto, quando trabalhava no ar úmido do cemitério ou forçava um animal vivo a dar vida ao barro morto? Ainda hoje tremo e me sinto mal ao recordá-lo. Mas então uma força intensa, quase louca, me impelia. Eu parecia perder todos os outros sentimentos e pensamentos, exceto esse objetivo. Era apenas um estado passageiro e, quando passou, senti a dor ainda mais fortemente. Recolhi ossos em ossários e usei minhas mãos para desvendar os terríveis segredos do corpo humano. Num quarto solitário no alto da casa, longe dos demais cômodos, mantinha minha oficina imunda. Meus olhos doíam ao acompanhar cada detalhe do trabalho. A sala de dissecação e o matadouro me forneciam muitos materiais. Muitas vezes meus sentimentos humanos me faziam odiar o que eu fazia, mas minha crescente ânsia me levava adiante até que a obra estivesse quase concluída.

Original English Version

These thoughts supported my spirits, while I pursued my undertaking with unremitting ardour. My cheek had grown pale with study, and my person had become emaciated with confinement. Sometimes, on the very brink of certainty, I failed; yet still I clung to the hope which the next day or the next hour might realise. One secret which I alone possessed was the hope to which I had dedicated myself; and the moon gazed on my midnight labours, while, with unrelaxed and breathless eagerness, I pursued nature to her hiding-places. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? My limbs now tremble, and my eyes swim with the remembrance; but then a resistless, and almost frantic, impulse, urged me forward; I seemed to have lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit. It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. I collected bones from charnel-houses; and disturbed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame. In a solitary chamber, or rather cell, at the top of the house, and separated from all the other apartments by a gallery and staircase, I kept my workshop of filthy creation: my eyeballs were starting from their sockets in attending to the details of my employment. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion.

Tradução Integral em Português

Esses pensamentos apoiaram meu ânimo, enquanto eu prosseguia em meu empreendimento com ardor incessante. Minha bochecha ficou pálida com o estudo, e minha pessoa ficou emaciada com o confinamento. Às vezes, à beira da certeza, falhei; no entanto, ainda assim, agarrei-me à esperança de que o dia seguinte ou a próxima hora poderia concretizar-se. Um segredo que só eu possuía era a esperança à qual me havia dedicado; e a lua contemplava meus trabalhos noturnos, enquanto, com uma ansiedade incansável e sem fôlego, eu perseguia a natureza até seus esconderijos. Quem conceberá os horrores do meu trabalho secreto, enquanto eu me envolvia com a umidade profana da sepultura ou torturava o animal vivo para animar o barro sem vida? Meus membros agora tremem e meus olhos nadam com a lembrança; mas então um impulso irresistível e quase frenético me impeliu a seguir em frente; Eu parecia ter perdido toda a alma ou sensação, exceto por essa busca. Na verdade, foi apenas um transe passageiro, que só me fez sentir com renovada agudeza tão logo, o estímulo antinatural deixando de agir, eu retornei aos meus velhos hábitos. Coletei ossos em cemitérios; e perturbou, com dedos profanos, os tremendos segredos da constituição humana. Num quarto solitário, ou melhor, cela, no topo da casa, e separado de todos os outros aposentos por uma galeria e uma escada, eu mantinha minha oficina de criação imunda: meus globos oculares saltavam das órbitas ao atender aos detalhes de meu trabalho. A sala de dissecação e o matadouro forneceram muitos dos meus materiais; e muitas vezes minha natureza humana se afastava com aversão de minha ocupação, enquanto, ainda impelido por uma ansiedade que aumentava perpetuamente, eu levava meu trabalho quase ao fim.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Os meses de verão passaram enquanto eu estava inteiramente absorvido nessa única tarefa. Era uma bela estação. Os campos davam uma colheita abundante, e as videiras produziam uma maravilhosa safra de uvas. Mas eu não podia desfrutar a beleza da natureza. Os mesmos sentimentos que me faziam ignorar o mundo ao redor também me faziam esquecer meus amigos, que estavam longe e que eu não via havia muito tempo. Sabia que meu silêncio os preocupava e recordava as palavras de meu pai: “Sei que, quando estiver satisfeito consigo mesmo, pensará em nós com amor e teremos notícias suas regularmente. Perdoe-me se penso que qualquer interrupção em suas cartas significa que você também está negligenciando seus outros deveres.”

Eu sabia, portanto, o que meu pai devia estar sentindo. Mas não conseguia afastar a mente de meu trabalho, desagradável em si mesmo, porém com poderoso domínio sobre minha imaginação. Queria adiar tudo o que se referia ao amor e à família até que a grande tarefa, que tomara conta de todos os meus hábitos e pensamentos, estivesse concluída.

Original English Version

The summer months passed while I was thus engaged, heart and soul, in one pursuit. It was a most beautiful season; never did the fields bestow a more plentiful harvest, or the vines yield a more luxuriant vintage: but my eyes were insensible to the charms of nature. And the same feelings which made me neglect the scenes around me caused me also to forget those friends who were so many miles absent, and whom I had not seen for so long a time. I knew my silence disquieted them; and I well remembered the words of my father: “I know that while you are pleased with yourself, you will think of us with affection, and we shall hear regularly from you. You must pardon me if I regard any interruption in your correspondence as a proof that your other duties are equally neglected.”

I knew well therefore what would be my father’s feelings; but I could not tear my thoughts from my employment, loathsome in itself, but which had taken an irresistible hold of my imagination. I wished, as it were, to procrastinate all that related to my feelings of affection until the great object, which swallowed up every habit of my nature, should be completed.

Tradução Integral em Português

Os meses de verão se passaram enquanto eu estava empenhado, de coração e alma, em uma única atividade. Foi uma época muito bonita; nunca os campos proporcionaram uma colheita mais abundante, ou as vinhas produziram uma colheita mais luxuriante: mas meus olhos foram insensíveis aos encantos da natureza. E os mesmos sentimentos que me fizeram negligenciar as cenas ao meu redor fizeram-me também esquecer aqueles amigos que estavam a tantos quilômetros de distância e que eu não via há tanto tempo. Eu sabia que meu silêncio os inquietava; e lembrei-me bem das palavras de meu pai: "Sei que, embora você esteja satisfeito consigo mesmo, pensará em nós com carinho e receberemos notícias suas regularmente. Você deve me perdoar se considero qualquer interrupção em sua correspondência como uma prova de que seus outros deveres são igualmente negligenciados".

Eu sabia bem, portanto, quais seriam os sentimentos de meu pai; mas não conseguia desviar os meus pensamentos do meu trabalho, repugnante em si mesmo, mas que se apoderara irresistivelmente da minha imaginação. Eu desejava, por assim dizer, procrastinar tudo o que se relacionava com meus sentimentos de afeição até que o grande objeto, que engoliu todos os hábitos de minha natureza, fosse concluído.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Naquela época, eu achava que meu pai seria injusto se me culpasse por vício ou mau caráter. Mas agora creio que ele tinha razão ao pensar que eu não estava inteiramente livre de culpa. Uma pessoa deve conservar a mente calma e serena e não permitir que a paixão ou um desejo passageiro perturbem essa paz. Não considero que a busca do conhecimento seja uma exceção. Se o estudo que se segue enfraquece o amor pelos outros e destrói o prazer nas alegrias simples, então esse estudo é realmente inadequado à mente humana. Se as pessoas sempre seguissem essa regra e jamais deixassem qualquer objetivo perturbar a paz da vida familiar, a Grécia não teria sido escravizada, César teria poupado seu país, a América teria sido descoberta mais lentamente, e os impérios do México e do Peru não teriam sido destruídos.

Mas esqueço que estou dando lições morais justamente na parte mais interessante de minha história, e seu olhar me lembra de continuar.

Original English Version

I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. A human being in perfection ought always to preserve a calm and peaceful mind, and never to allow passion or a transitory desire to disturb his tranquillity. I do not think that the pursuit of knowledge is an exception to this rule. If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections, and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind. If this rule were always observed; if no man allowed any pursuit whatsoever to interfere with the tranquillity of his domestic affections, Greece had not been enslaved; Caesar would have spared his country; America would have been discovered more gradually; and the empires of Mexico and Peru had not been destroyed.

But I forget that I am moralising in the most interesting part of my tale; and your looks remind me to proceed.

Tradução Integral em Português

Pensei então que meu pai seria injusto se atribuísse minha negligência ao vício ou à falta de minha parte; mas agora estou convencido de que ele estava justificado ao conceber que eu não deveria estar totalmente isento de culpa. Um ser humano perfeito deve sempre preservar uma mente calma e pacífica e nunca permitir que uma paixão ou um desejo transitório perturbe a sua tranquilidade. Não creio que a busca pelo conhecimento seja uma exceção a esta regra. Se o estudo ao qual você se dedica tem a tendência de enfraquecer suas afeições e destruir seu gosto por aqueles prazeres simples nos quais nenhuma liga pode se misturar, então esse estudo é certamente ilegal, isto é, não condizente com a mente humana. Se esta regra fosse sempre observada; se nenhum homem permitisse que qualquer atividade interferisse na tranquilidade das suas afeições domésticas, a Grécia não teria sido escravizada; César teria poupado seu país; A América teria sido descoberta de forma mais gradual; e os impérios do México e do Peru não foram destruídos.

Mas esqueço que estou moralizando a parte mais interessante da minha história; e sua aparência me lembra de prosseguir.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Meu pai não me censurava nas cartas. Apenas perguntava com mais cuidado do que antes o que eu estava fazendo. O inverno, a primavera e o verão passaram enquanto eu trabalhava. Nem sequer observava as flores ou as folhas crescerem, embora sempre as tivesse amado. Eu estava completamente concentrado no trabalho. Quando as folhas daquele ano morreram, minha obra estava quase terminada. A cada dia eu via mais claramente que fora bem-sucedido. Mas minha excitação se misturava ao medo. Eu parecia mais um homem forçado a trabalhar em minas ou em algum emprego insalubre do que um artista fazendo o que amava. Todas as noites eu tinha febre baixa e me tornara dolorosamente nervoso. A queda de uma folha me assustava, e eu evitava outras pessoas como se tivesse feito algo errado. Às vezes me chocava com o quanto havia piorado. Só meu propósito firme me mantinha em movimento. Logo minha obra terminaria, e eu acreditava que exercícios e diversão afastariam então os primeiros sinais da doença. Prometi-me ambos quando minha criação estivesse completa.

Original English Version

My father made no reproach in his letters, and only took notice of my silence by enquiring into my occupations more particularly than before. Winter, spring, and summer passed away during my labours; but I did not watch the blossom or the expanding leaves - sights which before always yielded me supreme delight - so deeply was I engrossed in my occupation. The leaves of that year had withered before my work drew near to a close; and now every day showed me more plainly how well I had succeeded. But my enthusiasm was checked by my anxiety, and I appeared rather like one doomed by slavery to toil in the mines, or any other unwholesome trade, than an artist occupied by his favourite employment. Every night I was oppressed by a slow fever, and I became nervous to a most painful degree; the fall of a leaf startled me, and I shunned my fellow-creatures as if I had been guilty of a crime. Sometimes I grew alarmed at the wreck I perceived that I had become; the energy of my purpose alone sustained me: my labours would soon end, and I believed that exercise and amusement would then drive away incipient disease; and I promised myself both of these when my creation should be complete.

Tradução Integral em Português

Meu pai não fez nenhuma censura em suas cartas e apenas percebeu meu silêncio perguntando mais detalhadamente sobre minhas ocupações do que antes. O inverno, a primavera e o verão passaram durante meus trabalhos; mas não observei a flor ou as folhas em expansão - visões que antes sempre me proporcionavam supremo deleite - tão profundamente absorto em minha ocupação. As folhas daquele ano murcharam antes que meu trabalho chegasse ao fim; e agora cada dia me mostrava mais claramente o quanto eu havia conseguido. Mas meu entusiasmo foi contido pela ansiedade, e eu parecia mais alguém condenado pela escravidão a trabalhar nas minas ou a qualquer outro ofício prejudicial, do que um artista ocupado em seu emprego favorito. Todas as noites eu era oprimido por uma febre lenta e ficava extremamente nervoso; a queda de uma folha me assustou e evitei meus semelhantes como se tivesse sido culpado de um crime. Às vezes eu ficava alarmado com o desastre em que percebia que havia me tornado; somente a energia do meu propósito me sustentava: meu trabalho logo terminaria, e eu acreditava que o exercício e a diversão afastariam as doenças incipientes; e prometi a mim mesmo ambos quando minha criação estivesse completa.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Chapter V

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Foi numa escura noite de novembro que vi meu árduo trabalho terminado. Com um medo quase doloroso, preparei ao meu redor os instrumentos da vida para dar vida à coisa sem vida que jazia a meus pés. Já era uma hora da manhã. A chuva batia tristemente nas janelas e minha vela estava quase acabada quando, à luz fraca, vi o olho amarelo e opaco da criatura se abrir. Ela respirou com dificuldade, e um movimento violento sacudiu seus membros.

Como descrever meus sentimentos naquele momento terrível, ou descrever a criatura que eu trabalhara tanto e tão cuidadosamente para criar? Seus membros eram bem proporcionados, e eu escolhera que seu rosto fosse belo. Belo! Meu Deus! Sua pele amarela mal cobria os músculos e as artérias por baixo. Os cabelos eram negros, brilhantes e longos. Os dentes, brancos como pérolas. Mas essas boas feições apenas tornavam mais forte o contraste horrível com os olhos úmidos, quase da mesma cor das órbitas branco-opacas, o rosto enrugado e os lábios negros e retos.

Original English Version

It was on a dreary night of November, that I beheld the accomplishment of my toils. With an anxiety that almost amounted to agony, I collected the instruments of life around me, that I might infuse a spark of being into the lifeless thing that lay at my feet. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs.

How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form? His limbs were in proportion, and I had selected his features as beautiful. Beautiful! - Great God! His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips.

Tradução Integral em Português

Foi numa noite sombria de novembro que contemplei a realização de meu trabalho. Com uma ansiedade que quase chegou à agonia, reuni os instrumentos da vida ao meu redor, para poder infundir uma centelha de ser na coisa sem vida que estava aos meus pés. Já era uma da manhã; a chuva batia tristemente nas vidraças e minha vela estava quase apagada quando, sob o brilho da luz meio apagada, vi o olho amarelo e opaco da criatura se abrir; respirava com dificuldade e um movimento convulsivo agitava seus membros.

Como posso descrever minhas emoções diante dessa catástrofe, ou como delinear o desgraçado que, com tantas dores e cuidados infinitos, tentei formar? Seus membros eram proporcionais e eu havia selecionado suas feições como lindas. Lindo! - Meu Deus! Sua pele amarela mal cobria o funcionamento dos músculos e artérias abaixo; seu cabelo era de um preto brilhante e esvoaçante; seus dentes de uma brancura perolada; mas essas exuberâncias apenas formavam um contraste mais horrível com seus olhos lacrimejantes, que pareciam quase da mesma cor das órbitas pardas e brancas em que estavam inseridos, com sua tez enrugada e lábios pretos e retos.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

A vida não muda tanto quanto os sentimentos humanos. Trabalhara arduamente por quase dois anos apenas para pôr vida num corpo sem vida. Por isso, abandonara o repouso e a saúde. Eu o desejara com uma paixão maior que a prudência. Mas, quando terminei, a beleza do sonho desapareceu, e meu coração se encheu de horror e nojo. Não suportava contemplar o que fizera e fugi do quarto. Andei por muito tempo de um lado para outro no dormitório, incapaz de acalmar a mente o bastante para dormir. Por fim me cansei e me joguei vestido sobre a cama, tentando esquecer por algum tempo. Foi inútil. Cheguei a dormir, mas sonhos terríveis me perturbaram. Vi Elizabeth, jovem e saudável, caminhando pelas ruas de Ingolstadt. Feliz e surpreso, abracei-a. Mas, ao beijar seus lábios, eles adquiriram a cor da morte. Seu rosto pareceu mudar, e pensei segurar em meus braços o corpo de minha mãe morta. Uma mortalha a cobria, e eu via vermes nas dobras do pano. Acordei horrorizado. Suor frio cobria minha testa, meus dentes batiam e todo meu corpo tremia. Então, à luz amarela e pálida da lua que entrava pelas venezianas, vi o desgraçado - o monstro miserável que eu criara. Ele segurava a cortina da cama, e seus olhos, se podiam ser chamados de olhos, estavam fixos em mim. Abriu a mandíbula e produziu sons indistintos enquanto um sorriso torcia suas faces. Talvez tivesse falado, mas eu não o ouvi. Uma mão se estendeu, como se quisesse deter-me, mas escapei e corri escada abaixo. Escondi-me no pátio da casa em que morava e passei o resto da noite caminhando de um lado para outro, aterrorizado, escutando cada som, como se pudesse avisar que o cadáver maligno ao qual eu dera vida por engano estava vindo.

Original English Version

The different accidents of life are not so changeable as the feelings of human nature. I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. For this I had deprived myself of rest and health. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart. Unable to endure the aspect of the being I had created, I rushed out of the room, and continued a long time traversing my bedchamber, unable to compose my mind to sleep. At length lassitude succeeded to the tumult I had before endured; and I threw myself on the bed in my clothes, endeavouring to seek a few moments of forgetfulness. But it was in vain: I slept, indeed, but I was disturbed by the wildest dreams. I thought I saw Elizabeth, in the bloom of health, walking in the streets of Ingolstadt. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. He held up the curtain of the bed; and his eyes, if eyes they may be called, were fixed on me. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. He might have spoken, but I did not hear; one hand was stretched out, seemingly to detain me, but I escaped, and rushed downstairs. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life.

Tradução Integral em Português

Os diferentes acidentes da vida não são tão mutáveis como os sentimentos da natureza humana. Trabalhei arduamente durante quase dois anos, com o único propósito de infundir vida num corpo inanimado. Por isso me privei do descanso e da saúde. Eu desejara isso com um ardor que excedia em muito a moderação; mas agora que terminei, a beleza do sonho desapareceu, e um horror e uma repulsa sem fôlego encheram meu coração. Incapaz de suportar o aspecto do ser que havia criado, saí correndo do quarto e continuei por um longo tempo atravessando meu quarto, incapaz de me recompor para dormir. Por fim, a lassidão sucedeu ao tumulto que eu havia suportado antes; e me joguei na cama, vestido, tentando buscar alguns momentos de esquecimento. Mas foi em vão: dormi, sim, mas fui perturbado pelos sonhos mais loucos. Pensei ter visto Elizabeth, com a saúde plena, andando pelas ruas de Ingolstadt. Encantado e surpreso, abracei-a; mas quando lhe imprimi o primeiro beijo nos lábios, eles ficaram lívidos com a tonalidade da morte; suas feições pareceram mudar e pensei que segurava o cadáver de minha falecida mãe em meus braços; uma mortalha envolveu sua forma, e vi os vermes rastejando nas dobras da flanela. Acordei do sono com horror; um orvalho frio cobriu minha testa, meus dentes bateram e todos os membros ficaram em convulsão: quando, sob a luz fraca e amarela da lua, enquanto ela abria caminho através das venezianas da janela, contemplei o desgraçado - o monstro miserável que eu havia criado. Ele ergueu a cortina da cama; e seus olhos, se é que podemos chamá-los de olhos, estavam fixos em mim. Suas mandíbulas se abriram e ele murmurou alguns sons inarticulados, enquanto um sorriso enrugava suas bochechas. Ele poderia ter falado, mas eu não ouvi; uma mão estava estendida, aparentemente para me deter, mas eu escapei e corri escada abaixo. Refugiei-me no pátio da casa que habitava; onde permaneci o resto da noite, andando de um lado para o outro na maior agitação, ouvindo atentamente, captando e temendo cada som como se anunciasse a aproximação do cadáver demoníaco ao qual eu tão miseravelmente dera vida.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Nenhum mortal poderia suportar o horror daquele rosto. Uma múmia trazida de volta à vida não seria mais horrível que aquele desgraçado. Eu o vira antes de estar acabado, e já era feio. Mas, quando seus músculos e articulações puderam mover-se, tornou-se algo que nem Dante poderia imaginar.

Passei a noite em miséria. Às vezes meu pulso batia tão rápido e forte que eu sentia cada artéria latejar. Em outras, quase caía no chão de fraqueza e exaustão. Junto desse horror, senti profunda decepção. Os sonhos que por tanto tempo me alimentaram e consolaram tinham se tornado um inferno. E a mudança fora tão rápida, tão completa!

Original English Version

Oh! no mortal could support the horror of that countenance. A mummy again endued with animation could not be so hideous as that wretch. I had gazed on him while unfinished; he was ugly then; but when those muscles and joints were rendered capable of motion, it became a thing such as even Dante could not have conceived.

I passed the night wretchedly. Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly, that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness. Mingled with this horror, I felt the bitterness of disappointment; dreams that had been my food and pleasant rest for so long a space were now become a hell to me; and the change was so rapid, the overthrow so complete!

Tradução Integral em Português

Ah! nenhum mortal poderia suportar o horror daquele semblante. Uma múmia novamente dotada de animação não poderia ser tão hedionda quanto aquele desgraçado. Eu tinha olhado para ele enquanto estava inacabado; ele era feio naquela época; mas quando esses músculos e articulações se tornaram capazes de se mover, tornou-se algo que nem mesmo Dante poderia ter concebido.

Passei a noite miseravelmente. Às vezes meu pulso batia tão rápido e com tanta força que eu sentia a palpitação de todas as artérias; em outros, quase caí no chão devido ao langor e à extrema fraqueza. Misturado a esse horror, senti a amargura da decepção; os sonhos que durante tanto tempo foram meu alimento e meu descanso agradável tornaram-se agora um inferno para mim; e a mudança foi tão rápida, a derrubada tão completa!

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Por fim chegou uma manhã escura e molhada e mostrou aos meus olhos doloridos e sem sono a igreja de Ingolstadt, com sua torre branca e o relógio marcando seis horas. O porteiro abriu o portão do pátio onde eu encontrara abrigo naquela noite, e saí para as ruas. Caminhei depressa, como se quisesse escapar do desgraçado que temia ver em cada esquina. Não ousei voltar ao quarto, mas me senti impelido a continuar, embora estivesse encharcado pela chuva que caía do céu negro e frio.

Continuei caminhando assim por algum tempo, tentando aliviar o peso em minha mente pelo esforço do corpo. Percorri as ruas sem saber realmente onde estava ou o que fazia. Meu coração batia depressa de medo, e eu me apressava com passos irregulares, sem ousar olhar ao redor:

Original English Version

Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. The porter opened the gates of the court, which had that night been my asylum, and I issued into the streets, pacing them with quick steps, as if I sought to avoid the wretch whom I feared every turning of the street would present to my view. I did not dare return to the apartment which I inhabited, but felt impelled to hurry on, although drenched by the rain which poured from a black and comfortless sky.

I continued walking in this manner for some time, endeavouring, by bodily exercise, to ease the load that weighed upon my mind. I traversed the streets, without any clear conception of where I was, or what I was doing. My heart palpitated in the sickness of fear; and I hurried on with irregular steps, not daring to look about me: -

Tradução Integral em Português

A manhã, sombria e úmida, finalmente amanheceu e descobriu aos meus olhos insones e doloridos a igreja de Ingolstadt, seu campanário branco e seu relógio, que marcava a sexta hora. O porteiro abriu os portões do pátio, que naquela noite fora meu asilo, e saí pelas ruas, percorrendo-as com passos rápidos, como se quisesse evitar o desgraçado que temia que cada curva da rua apresentasse à minha vista. Não ousei voltar ao apartamento que morava, mas senti-me impelido a seguir em frente, embora encharcado pela chuva que caía de um céu negro e desconfortável.

Continuei andando dessa maneira por algum tempo, esforçando-me, por meio de exercícios físicos, para aliviar a carga que pesava sobre minha mente. Atravessei as ruas, sem nenhuma noção clara de onde estava ou o que estava fazendo. Meu coração palpitou na doença do medo; e segui em frente com passos irregulares, sem ousar olhar ao meu redor:

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Como quem, numa estrada solitária, / Caminha com medo e pavor, / E, depois de olhar para trás uma vez, segue adiante / E não volta mais a cabeça; / Pois sabe que um demônio terrível / Pisa bem perto atrás dele.”

Enquanto seguia, logo cheguei em frente à estalagem onde as diferentes carruagens costumavam parar. Parei ali, sem saber por quê. Por alguns minutos fiquei imóvel, olhando uma carruagem que vinha da outra extremidade da rua. Quando se aproximou, vi que era a diligência suíça. Ela parou onde eu estava e, quando a porta se abriu, vi Henry Clerval. Ao me ver, ele saltou imediatamente. “Meu caro Frankenstein”, exclamou, “como estou feliz em vê-lo! Que sorte você estar aqui exatamente quando eu desço!”

Original English Version

“Like one who, on a lonely road,Doth walk in fear and dread,And, having once turned round, walks on,And turns no more his head;Because he knows a frightful fiendDoth close behind him tread.”1

Continuing thus, I came at length opposite to the inn at which the various diligences and carriages usually stopped. Here I paused, I knew not why; but I remained some minutes with my eyes fixed on a coach that was coming towards me from the other end of the street. As it drew nearer, I observed that it was the Swiss diligence: it stopped just where I was standing; and, on the door being opened, I perceived Henry Clerval, who, on seeing me, instantly sprung out. “My dear Frankenstein,” exclaimed he, “how glad I am to see you! how fortunate that you should be here at the very moment of my alighting!”

Tradução Integral em Português

“Como alguém que, em uma estrada solitária, Anda com medo e pavor, E, depois de se virar, segue em frente, E não vira mais a cabeça; Porque ele sabe que um demônio terrível Está logo atrás dele.”1

Continuando assim, cheguei finalmente à estalagem onde costumavam parar as diversas diligências e carruagens. Aqui fiz uma pausa, não sabia por quê; mas permaneci alguns minutos com os olhos fixos numa carruagem que vinha em minha direção do outro lado da rua. À medida que se aproximava, observei que era a diligência suíça: parou exatamente onde eu estava; e, ao abrir a porta, avistei Henry Clerval, que, ao me ver, saltou instantaneamente. "Meu querido Frankenstein", exclamou ele, "como estou feliz em vê-lo! que sorte você estar aqui no exato momento em que desci!"

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Ver Clerval me deixou muito feliz. Sua chegada fez-me pensar em meu pai, Elizabeth e todas as cenas queridas do lar. Tomei-lhe a mão e, de imediato, esqueci o medo e a miséria. Pela primeira vez em muitos meses, senti-me calmo e realmente feliz. Recebi-o calorosamente e caminhamos para minha faculdade. Clerval falou por algum tempo sobre nossos amigos e sobre sua própria boa sorte por ter recebido permissão para vir a Ingolstadt. Disse que fora difícil convencer o pai de que o conhecimento útil não era apenas contabilidade. No fim, porém, o amor do pai foi mais forte que sua aversão ao aprendizado, e ele o deixou partir nessa viagem de descoberta rumo à terra do saber.

“Fico muito feliz em vê-lo. Mas diga-me: como deixou meu pai, meus irmãos e Elizabeth?”

Original English Version

Nothing could equal my delight on seeing Clerval; his presence brought back to my thoughts my father, Elizabeth, and all those scenes of home so dear to my recollection. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy. I welcomed my friend, therefore, in the most cordial manner, and we walked towards my college. Clerval continued talking for some time about our mutual friends, and his own good fortune in being permitted to come to Ingolstadt. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.”

“It gives me the greatest delight to see you; but tell me how you left my father, brothers, and Elizabeth.”

Tradução Integral em Português

Nada poderia igualar minha alegria ao ver Clerval; sua presença trouxe de volta aos meus pensamentos meu pai, Elizabeth, e todas aquelas cenas de casa tão queridas à minha lembrança. Agarrei sua mão e num momento esqueci meu horror e infortúnio; Senti de repente, e pela primeira vez em muitos meses, uma alegria calma e serena. Dei as boas-vindas ao meu amigo, portanto, da maneira mais cordial, e caminhamos em direção ao meu colégio. Clerval continuou falando por algum tempo sobre nossos amigos em comum e sobre sua sorte em ter permissão para vir a Ingolstadt. “Você pode facilmente acreditar”, disse ele, “quão grande foi a dificuldade de persuadir meu pai de que todo o conhecimento necessário não estava incluído na nobre arte da contabilidade; e, de fato, acredito que o deixei incrédulo até o fim, pois sua resposta constante às minhas incansáveis súplicas foi a mesma do professor holandês em O Vigário de Wakefield: - - ‘Tenho dez mil florins por ano sem grego, como com vontade sem grego.’ Mas sua afeição por mim finalmente superou a sua. não gosto de aprender, e ele me permitiu empreender uma viagem de descoberta à terra do conhecimento.”

“Fico muito feliz em vê-la; mas conte-me como você deixou meu pai, meus irmãos e Elizabeth.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

“Eles estão muito bem e muito felizes, mas se preocupam um pouco porque recebem notícias suas tão raramente. Eu mesmo vou repreendê-lo por isso. Mas, meu caro Frankenstein”, disse ele, parando e me olhando atentamente, “eu não havia percebido como você parece doente. Está tão magro e pálido. Parece não dormir há várias noites.”

“Você tem razão. Ultimamente estive tão profundamente ocupado com uma tarefa que não me permiti descansar o suficiente, como pode ver. Mas espero, e espero sinceramente, que todas essas tarefas estejam agora encerradas e que eu esteja finalmente livre.”

Original English Version

“Very well, and very happy, only a little uneasy that they hear from you so seldom. By the by, I mean to lecture you a little upon their account myself. - But, my dear Frankenstein,” continued he, stopping short, and gazing full in my face, “I did not before remark how very ill you appear; so thin and pale; you look as if you had been watching for several nights.”

“You have guessed right; I have lately been so deeply engaged in one occupation, that I have not allowed myself sufficient rest, as you see: but I hope, I sincerely hope, that all these employments are now at an end, and that I am at length free.”

Tradução Integral em Português

"Muito bem, e muito feliz, apenas um pouco desconfortável por eles ouvirem falar de você tão raramente. A propósito, pretendo lhe dar um pequeno sermão sobre o assunto deles. - Mas, meu querido Frankenstein", continuou ele, parando abruptamente e olhando diretamente em meu rosto, "eu não havia comentado antes como você parece muito doente; tão magro e pálido; você parece como se estivesse vigiando por várias noites."

“Você adivinhou certo; ultimamente tenho estado tão profundamente envolvido em uma ocupação, que não me permiti descanso suficiente, como você vê: mas espero, espero sinceramente, que todas essas ocupações tenham chegado ao fim e que eu esteja finalmente livre.”

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Tremi violentamente. Não suportava pensar nos acontecimentos da noite anterior, muito menos falar deles. Caminhei depressa e logo chegamos à minha faculdade. Então pensei, com um arrepio, que a criatura que deixara no quarto talvez ainda estivesse lá, viva e se movendo. Eu temia ver o monstro, mas temia ainda mais que Henry o visse. Pedi, portanto, que Henry esperasse alguns minutos no pé da escada e corri para o quarto. Minha mão já estava na fechadura quando recobrei a razão. Parei, e um medo gelado tomou conta de mim. Abri a porta com força, como fazem as crianças que esperam encontrar um fantasma. Mas não havia nada ali. Entrei receosamente. O quarto estava vazio e meu dormitório livre de seu visitante terrível. Mal podia acreditar em tanta felicidade. Mas, ao certificar-me de que meu inimigo realmente partira, bati palmas de alegria e corri de volta para Clerval.

Original English Version

I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. I walked with a quick pace, and we soon arrived at my college. I then reflected, and the thought made me shiver, that the creature whom I had left in my apartment might still be there, alive, and walking about. I dreaded to behold this monster; but I feared still more that Henry should see him. Entreating him, therefore, to remain a few minutes at the bottom of the stairs, I darted up towards my own room. My hand was already on the lock of the door before I recollected myself. I then paused; and a cold shivering came over me. I threw the door forcibly open, as children are accustomed to do when they expect a spectre to stand in waiting for them on the other side; but nothing appeared. I stepped fearfully in: the apartment was empty; and my bedroom was also freed from its hideous guest. I could hardly believe that so great a good fortune could have befallen me; but when I became assured that my enemy had indeed fled, I clapped my hands for joy, and ran down to Clerval.

Tradução Integral em Português

Tremi excessivamente; Não pude suportar pensar e muito menos aludir aos acontecimentos da noite anterior. Caminhei em ritmo acelerado e logo chegamos à minha faculdade. Refleti então, e a ideia me fez estremecer, que a criatura que eu havia deixado em meu apartamento ainda poderia estar lá, viva e andando por aí. Eu temia ver esse monstro; mas eu temia ainda mais que Henry o visse. Suplicando-lhe, portanto, que permanecesse alguns minutos ao pé da escada, subi correndo em direção ao meu quarto. Minha mão já estava na fechadura da porta antes que eu me recompusesse. Então fiz uma pausa; e um calafrio tomou conta de mim. Abri a porta à força, como as crianças costumam fazer quando esperam que um espectro as espere do outro lado; mas nada apareceu. Entrei com medo: o apartamento estava vazio; e meu quarto também foi libertado de seu horrível hóspede. Eu mal podia acreditar que uma fortuna tão grande pudesse ter acontecido comigo; mas quando tive certeza de que meu inimigo realmente havia fugido, bati palmas de alegria e corri até Clerval.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Subimos ao quarto, e o criado logo trouxe o desjejum. Mas eu não conseguia me acalmar. Não era apenas alegria que me preenchia. Meu corpo parecia estranho e excessivamente sensível, e meu pulso batia rápido. Eu não conseguia ficar quieto por um instante. Pulei por cima das cadeiras, bati palmas e ri alto. A princípio, Clerval pensou que minha estranha excitação se devia apenas à sua chegada. Mas, ao me observar melhor, viu em meus olhos um olhar selvagem que não conseguia compreender. Minha risada alta, descontrolada e vazia o assustou e surpreendeu.

“Meu caro Victor”, exclamou ele, “o que, em nome de Deus, está acontecendo? Não ria assim. Como você está doente! O que causa tudo isso?”

“Não me pergunte”, gritei, cobrindo os olhos, pois pensei ver o terrível fantasma deslizar para dentro do quarto. “Ele pode lhe contar. Ah, salve-me! Salve-me!” Pensei que o monstro me agarrara. Lutei desesperadamente e então caí num ataque.

Original English Version

We ascended into my room, and the servant presently brought breakfast; but I was unable to contain myself. It was not joy only that possessed me; I felt my flesh tingle with excess of sensitiveness, and my pulse beat rapidly. I was unable to remain for a single instant in the same place; I jumped over the chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed aloud. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him.

“My dear Victor,” cried he, “what, for God’s sake, is the matter? Do not laugh in that manner. How ill you are! What is the cause of all this?”

“Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. - Oh, save me! save me!” I imagined that the monster seized me; I struggled furiously, and fell down in a fit.

Tradução Integral em Português

Subimos para o meu quarto e o criado trouxe o café da manhã; mas não consegui me conter. Não foi apenas a alegria que me possuiu; Senti minha pele formigar com excesso de sensibilidade e meu pulso bateu rapidamente. Não pude permanecer um só instante no mesmo lugar; Pulei sobre as cadeiras, bati palmas e ri alto. Clerval a princípio atribuiu meu ânimo incomum à alegria de sua chegada; mas quando me observou com mais atenção, viu uma selvageria em meus olhos que não conseguia explicar; e minha risada alta, desenfreada e sem coração o assustou e surpreendeu.

"Meu querido Victor", gritou ele, "qual é o problema, pelo amor de Deus? Não ria dessa maneira. Como você está doente! Qual é a causa de tudo isso?"

“Não me pergunte”, gritei, colocando as mãos diante dos olhos, pois pensei ter visto o temido espectro deslizar para dentro da sala; "ele sabe. - Oh, salve-me! salve-me!" Imaginei que o monstro me agarrou; Lutei furiosamente e caí em um ataque.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Tradução da Versão Simplificada (B1)

Pobre Clerval! Como deve ter se sentido? Um encontro que aguardara com tanta alegria transformara-se em tristeza. Mas eu não vi sua dor, pois estava inconsciente e só voltei a mim muito tempo depois.

Foi o início de uma febre nervosa que me manteve na cama por vários meses. Durante todo esse tempo, Henry foi meu único enfermeiro. Mais tarde soube que ele escondera de meu pai e de Elizabeth a gravidade da doença. Meu pai era velho demais para uma viagem tão longa, e Elizabeth teria ficado profundamente aflita. Henry sabia que eu não poderia ter enfermeiro mais bondoso e esperava que eu me recuperasse. Acreditava ajudá-los da melhor forma possível.

Original English Version

Poor Clerval! what must have been his feelings? A meeting, which he anticipated with such joy, so strangely turned to bitterness. But I was not the witness of his grief; for I was lifeless, and did not recover my senses for a long, long time.

This was the commencement of a nervous fever, which confined me for several months. During all that time Henry was my only nurse. I afterwards learned that, knowing my father’s advanced age, and unfitness for so long a journey, and how wretched my sickness would make Elizabeth, he spared them this grief by concealing the extent of my disorder. He knew that I could not have a more kind and attentive nurse than himself; and, firm in the hope he felt of my recovery, he did not doubt that, instead of doing harm, he performed the kindest action that he could towards them.

Tradução Integral em Português

Pobre Clerval! quais devem ter sido seus sentimentos? Um encontro que ele esperava com tanta alegria, tão estranhamente se transformou em amargura. Mas eu não fui testemunha da sua dor; pois eu estava sem vida e não recuperei os sentidos por muito, muito tempo.

Este foi o início de uma febre nervosa que me confinou durante vários meses. Durante todo esse tempo, Henry foi meu único enfermeiro. Mais tarde, fiquei sabendo que, sabendo da idade avançada de meu pai e de sua incapacidade para uma viagem tão longa, e de quão miserável minha doença tornaria Elizabeth, ele os poupou dessa dor, ocultando a extensão de minha doença. Ele sabia que eu não poderia ter uma enfermeira mais gentil e atenciosa do que ele; e, firme na esperança que sentia da minha recuperação, não duvidou que, em vez de fazer mal, realizou a ação mais gentil que pôde para com eles.

Retorna à Versão Inglês Simplificada    Go to the Original English Version

Glossary: New Words (1/2)

Priority words from the simplified reading and post-nominal letters found in this book. Post-nominals are abbreviations placed after a person's name to identify honours, professional memberships, academic titles or qualifications. Each entry shows up to six real uses; Back to B1 opens the exact simplified sentence, while Back to Original opens the exact paragraph in Original English.

aching /ˈeɪkɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dolorido; doendo

Simple English: Feeling a dull steady pain.

Example: His aching arms could hardly lift the oar.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At last a dark, wet morning came and showed my sleepless, aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, with its white tower and clock showing six o'clock. Go to

Original English Version

1. Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. Go to

affair /əˈfɛər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: caso; caso amoroso; romance

Simple English: A sexual relationship involving at least one committed partner.

Example: Their affair lasted for several years before it was discovered.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In his younger years, he was always busy with his country’s affairs. Go to

agrippa /əˈɡrɪpə/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Agripa

Simple English: The surname of a real Renaissance-era occult philosopher, Cornelius Agrippa.

Example: There I found a book by Cornelius Agrippa.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. There I found a book by Cornelius Agrippa. Go to

2. Cornelius Agrippa! Go to

3. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

4. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. Go to

5. Professor Krempe often asked me with a sly smile how Cornelius Agrippa was going, while M. Waldman was truly happy about my success. Go to

Original English Version

1. In this house I chanced to find a volume of the works of Cornelius Agrippa. Go to

2. Cornelius Agrippa! Go to

3. If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. Go to

4. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Go to

5. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. Go to

6. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Go to

agrippa's /əˈɡrɪpəz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: de Agripa

Simple English: Possessive form referring to Cornelius Agrippa, the occult philosopher.

Example: If my father had explained that Agrippa's ideas were completely rejected by modern science, I would have put the book aside.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If my father had explained that Agrippa’s ideas were completely rejected and that a modern system of science had replaced them, I would surely have put the book aside. Go to

albertus /ælˈbɜːrtəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Alberto Magno

Simple English: A famous medieval scholar and alchemist whose works are mentioned as reading material.

Example: When I returned home, I first got the full works of this writer, and then those of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I returned home, I first got the full works of this writer, and then those of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

3. I did not expect, in this wise and scientific age, to meet a follower of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I returned home, my first care was to procure the whole works of this author, and afterwards of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Go to

3. I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

alchemists /ˈælkəmɪsts/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: alquimistas

Simple English: People who practiced alchemy; the plural of alchemist.

Example: The young scholar read the works of several famous alchemists.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I answered carelessly and, almost as an insult, told him that I had mainly read the works of alchemists. Go to

2. I went back through the history of knowledge and traded the discoveries of recent thinkers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Go to

Original English Version

1. I replied carelessly; and, partly in contempt, mentioned the names of my alchemists as the principal authors I had studied. Go to

2. With a confusion of ideas only to be accounted for by my extreme youth, and my want of a guide on such matters, I had retrod the steps of knowledge along the paths of time, and exchanged the discoveries of recent enquirers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Go to

angrily /ˈæŋɡrɪli/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: com raiva; furiosamente

Simple English: In a way that shows anger.

Example: He shouted angrily at the door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. “Every minute,” said Mr. Krempe angrily, “every moment you spent on those books is completely lost. Go to

arms /ɑːrmz/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: braços; armas; armamento

Simple English: Weapons mainly used by military forces in battles.

Example: The soldiers carried various arms to prepare for the conflict ahead.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Their money got smaller, and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her alone and poor. Go to

2. Her face seemed to change, and I thought I was holding the body of my dead mother in my arms. Go to

arteries /ˈɑːrtəriz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: artérias

Simple English: Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

Example: The major arteries carry oxygen-rich blood through the body.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His yellow skin barely covered the muscles and arteries beneath. Go to

Original English Version

1. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Go to

arthur's /ˈɑːrθərz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Arthur

Simple English: belonging to a character named Arthur, possibly King Arthur

Example: The first thing he knew was Arthur's voice saying:

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre. Go to

barrier (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: barreira; obstáculo; bloqueio

Simple English: something that blocks movement or progress

Example: Language can be a barrier to communication.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I had looked at the barriers that seemed to keep humans from entering nature’s stronghold, and I had complained foolishly and without knowledge. Go to

beat /biːt/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bater; vencer; batida

Simple English: The main rhythm or pulse of a musical piece or poem.

Example: The beat of the song made everyone want to dance immediately.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At times my pulse beat so fast and hard that I could feel every artery pounding. Go to

2. My heart beat fast with fear, and I hurried on with uneven steps, not daring to look around me: Go to

3. My body felt strange and overly sensitive, and my pulse beat fast. Go to

beaufort /ˈboʊfərt/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Beaufort

Simple English: the surname of a merchant, a close friend of the narrator's father

Example: One of his closest friends was a merchant named Beaufort.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. One of his closest friends was a merchant named Beaufort. Go to

2. After many bad events, Beaufort lost his wealth and became poor. Go to

3. My father loved Beaufort as a true friend and was deeply saddened by his fall. Go to

4. Beaufort had hidden himself so well that it took ten months before my father found where he lived. Go to

5. Beaufort had saved only a little money from his ruined fortunes. Go to

6. Still, Caroline Beaufort had a strong mind. Go to

Original English Version

1. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Go to

2. My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances. Go to

3. Beaufort had taken effectual measures to conceal himself; and it was ten months before my father discovered his abode. Go to

4. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. Go to

5. But Caroline Beaufort possessed a mind of an uncommon mould; and her courage rose to support her in her adversity. Go to

beaufort's /ˈboʊfərts/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Beaufort

Simple English: the possessive form referring to the merchant Beaufort's coffin

Example: She knelt by Beaufort's coffin and cried bitterly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She knelt by Beaufort’s coffin and cried bitterly when my father entered the room. Go to

Original English Version

1. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. Go to

beggar /ˈbɛɡər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mendigo

Simple English: A person who asks other people for money or food.

Example: A beggar sat at the church door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His property was taken away, and his child was left an orphan and beggar. Go to

Original English Version

1. Her father grew worse; her time was more entirely occupied in attending him; her means of subsistence decreased; and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her an orphan and a beggar. Go to

2. His property was confiscated, his child became an orphan and a beggar. Go to

bellerive /bɛlˈriːv/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Bellerive

Simple English: the name of a place on the shore of Lake Geneva mentioned in the story

Example: We had a country home on Bellerive, on the eastern side of the lake.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. We had a house in Geneva and a country home on Bellerive, on the eastern side of the lake, a little more than a league from the city. Go to

2. When I was about fifteen, we were living in our house near Bellerive when we saw a terrible thunderstorm. Go to

Original English Version

1. We possessed a house in Geneva, and a campagne on Bellerive, the eastern shore of the lake, at the distance of rather more than a league from the city. Go to

2. When I was about fifteen years old we had retired to our house near Bellerive, when we witnessed a most violent and terrible thunderstorm. Go to

beyond /bɪˈɒnd/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: além

Simple English: At or to the side that is further; exceeding a point.

Example: Her talents go beyond just singing; she can also dance beautifully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Until then, I had gone to school in Geneva, but my father believed I needed to learn customs beyond my own country in order to finish my education. Go to

2. They have gained new powers beyond measure. Go to

bitterly /ˈbɪtərli/ (16 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amargamente; intensamente

Simple English: With strong pain, anger, regret, or cold.

Example: The man spoke bitterly about the stolen mummy.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She knelt by Beaufort’s coffin and cried bitterly when my father entered the room. Go to

Original English Version

1. He bitterly deplored the false pride which led his friend to a conduct so little worthy of the affection that united them. Go to

2. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. Go to

bitterness /ˈbɪtərnəs/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amargura; rancor

Simple English: A feeling of deep anger about unfair treatment.

Example: He spoke of the war with bitterness.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Later, when time proves the loss is real, the true bitterness of grief begins. Go to

Original English Version

1. These are the reflections of the first days; but when the lapse of time proves the reality of the evil, then the actual bitterness of grief commences. Go to

2. Mingled with this horror, I felt the bitterness of disappointment; dreams that had been my food and pleasant rest for so long a space were now become a hell to me; and the change was so rapid, the overthrow so complete! Go to

3. A meeting, which he anticipated with such joy, so strangely turned to bitterness. Go to

blame /bleɪm/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: culpar; culpa; responsabilizar

Simple English: To say or feel someone is responsible for a problem.

Example: It's easy to blame others when things go wrong, but we should take responsibility too.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If my spells failed, I blamed my own lack of experience and mistakes, not my teachers. Go to

2. At that time I thought my father would be unfair if he blamed me for vice or bad character. Go to

3. But now I believe he was right to think I was not fully free from blame. Go to

4. My father did not blame me in his letters. Go to

bloomed /bluːmd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: floresceu; desabrochou

Simple English: Produced flowers, or came into full beauty.

Example: The garden bloomed early that spring.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles. Go to

bookkeeping /ˈbʊkkiːpɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escrituração contábil; contabilidade

Simple English: the work of recording a business's financial transactions

Example: Accurate bookkeeping kept the small shop out of trouble.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He said it had been hard to convince his father that useful knowledge was not only bookkeeping. Go to

Original English Version

1. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Go to

boredom /ˈbɔːrdəm/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: tédio; enfado

Simple English: The feeling of having nothing interesting to do.

Example: The long wait was pure boredom.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Out of curiosity and boredom, I went to the lecture room, and M. Waldman entered soon after. Go to

breathed /briːðd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: respirou; aspirou

Simple English: Took air into the body through the nose or mouth.

Example: She breathed in the sweet smell of the flowers.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It breathed hard, and a violent movement shook its limbs. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Go to

broad /brɔːd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: ampla; largo; vasto

Simple English: Having a large distance between one side and another.

Example: The river is broad enough for several boats to cross at once.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Mr. Krempe was short and broad, with a rough voice and an unpleasant face, so he did not make me like his subject. Go to

busied /ˈbɪzid/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ocupou-se; manteve-se ocupado

Simple English: Kept oneself or someone actively occupied with a task.

Example: She busied herself with collecting enough wood for the fire.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. Go to

calmer /ˈkɑːmər/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais calmo; mais sereno

Simple English: More quiet and peaceful than before.

Example: The sea grew calmer as soon as the wind dropped.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Elizabeth was calmer and more focused. Go to

Original English Version

1. Elizabeth was of a calmer and more concentrated disposition; but, with all my ardour, I was capable of a more intense application, and was more deeply smitten with the thirst for knowledge. Go to

calming /ˈkɑːmɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acalmando; calmante; tranquilizador

Simple English: Making someone feel quiet and less worried.

Example: Her calming voice on the phone made the bad news easier to hear.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She was a living spirit of love, calming and drawing people close. Go to

carelessly /ˈkɛrləsli/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: descuidadamente; sem prestar atenção

Simple English: Without paying enough attention.

Example: He carelessly left the door open all night.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I answered carelessly and, almost as an insult, told him that I had mainly read the works of alchemists. Go to

Original English Version

1. My father looked carelessly at the titlepage of my book, and said, “Ah! Go to

2. I replied carelessly; and, partly in contempt, mentioned the names of my alchemists as the principal authors I had studied. Go to

carelessness /ˈkɛrləsnəs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: descuido; desatenção

Simple English: The habit of not paying enough attention.

Example: His carelessness broke the window.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Yet we are close to learning many things if fear or carelessness does not stop us. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was a bold question, and one which has ever been considered as a mystery; yet with how many things are we upon the brink of becoming acquainted, if cowardice or carelessness did not restrain our enquiries. Go to

carriages /ˈkærɪdʒɪz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vagões; carruagens

Simple English: The separate parts of a train where people sit.

Example: The last two carriages were empty.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As I went on, I soon came opposite the inn where the different carriages usually stopped. Go to

Original English Version

1. Continuing thus, I came at length opposite to the inn at which the various diligences and carriages usually stopped. Go to

chained /tʃeɪnd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: acorrentado; preso por correntes

Simple English: Fastened with a chain so it cannot move or escape.

Example: The gate was chained and padlocked.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He said little; but when he spoke, I read in his kindling eye and in his animated glance a restrained but firm resolve, not to be chained to the miserable details of commerce. Go to

Chair /tʃɛər/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cadeira; poltrona; presidente

Simple English: A seat with a back.

Example: Please sit on the chair.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I jumped over chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed out loud. Go to

changeable /ˈtʃeɪndʒəbəl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mutável; inconstante; volúvel

Simple English: Likely to change often and without warning.

Example: April weather here is changeable, so take a coat.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Life is not as changeable as human feelings. Go to

Original English Version

1. The different accidents of life are not so changeable as the feelings of human nature. Go to

charnel /ˈtʃɑːrnəl/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mortuário; de ossuário

Simple English: Relating to a place where dead bodies or bones are kept.

Example: He spent nights studying decay in charnel houses.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Now I had to study how decay begins and grows, and I spent days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. Go to

2. I collected bones from charnel-houses and used my hands to uncover the terrible secrets of the human body. Go to

Original English Version

1. Now I was led to examine the cause and progress of this decay, and forced to spend days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. Go to

2. I collected bones from charnel-houses; and disturbed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame. Go to

chattered /ˈtʃætərd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tagarelou; matraqueou

Simple English: talked rapidly or made repeated quick sounds

Example: The apes chattered among themselves for a while.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Cold sweat covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and my whole body shook. Go to

Original English Version

1. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. Go to

cheerfully /ˈtʃɪrfəli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: alegremente; com bom humor

Simple English: In a happy way.

Example: He answered cheerfully and walked on.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. But these are not thoughts befitting me; I will endeavour to resign myself cheerfully to death, and will indulge a hope of meeting you in another world.” Go to

chemists /ˈkemɪsts/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: químicos; farmacêuticos

Simple English: people who study chemistry or prepare and sell medicines

Example: The gathering included chemists who hoped to transform metals.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I listened to him, and then told him that his lecture had changed my dislike of modern chemists. Go to

Original English Version

1. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Go to

chivalry /ˈʃɪvəlri/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cavalaria; cavalheirismo

Simple English: The rules of honour and good manners followed by knights.

Example: He spoke of duty and of old chivalry.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He was deeply read in books of chivalry and romance. Go to

churchyard /ˈtʃɜːrtʃjɑːrd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: adro; cemitério junto à igreja

Simple English: The ground around a church, often used as a burial place.

Example: We walked through the churchyard reading the names on the stones.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A churchyard was only a place where dead bodies lay, bodies that had once been beautiful and strong but were now food for worms. Go to

Original English Version

1. Darkness had no effect upon my fancy; and a churchyard was to me merely the receptacle of bodies deprived of life, which, from being the seat of beauty and strength, had become food for the worm. Go to

clapped /klæpt/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: bateu (palmas); bateu um contra o outro

Simple English: Hit two things together, especially the hands.

Example: She clapped the heels of her shoes together.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But when I was sure my enemy had really gone, I clapped my hands with joy and ran back to Clerval. Go to

2. I jumped over chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed out loud. Go to

Original English Version

1. I could hardly believe that so great a good fortune could have befallen me; but when I became assured that my enemy had indeed fled, I clapped my hands for joy, and ran down to Clerval. Go to

2. I was unable to remain for a single instant in the same place; I jumped over the chairs, clapped my hands, and laughed aloud. Go to

clerval /ˈklɛərvəl/ (112 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Clerval

Simple English: the surname of Henry Clerval, a close friend of the main character

Example: Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant in Geneva.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant in Geneva. Go to

2. Clerval cared about the moral side of life. Go to

3. And Clerval, noble as he was, became even more humane and generous because Elizabeth showed him the true beauty of kindness and made doing good the goal of his great ambition. Go to

4. Clerval spent the last evening with us. Go to

5. Clerval pressed my hand once more. Go to

6. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; they were familiar faces I knew well. Go to

Original English Version

1. Henry Clerval was the son of a merchant of Geneva. Go to

2. Meanwhile Clerval occupied himself, so to speak, with the moral relations of things. Go to

3. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Go to

4. Clerval spent the last evening with us. Go to

5. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Go to

6. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; these were “old familiar faces;” but I believed myself totally unfitted for the company of strangers. Go to

clung /klʌŋ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: agarrava-se; apegava-se

Simple English: Held onto something very tightly.

Example: The child clung to her father's hand.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Sometimes, on the very brink of certainty, I failed; yet still I clung to the hope which the next day or the next hour might realise. Go to

comforted /ˈkʌmfərtɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: consolou; confortou

Simple English: Made someone feel less sad or worried.

Example: The old crow comforted him.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Above all, I wanted to see my dear Elizabeth comforted in some way. Go to

command /kəˈmænd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: comando; comandar; ordem

Simple English: A specific instruction for a computer to execute a task.

Example: You need to enter the right command to run the program successfully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They can command thunder, copy an earthquake, and even make fun of the unseen world with its own shadows.” Go to

como /ˈkoʊmoʊ/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Como

Simple English: a lake in northern Italy

Example: When I was about five, they spent a week near Lake Como.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I was about five, they traveled outside Italy and spent a week near Lake Como. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I was about five years old, while making an excursion beyond the frontiers of Italy, they passed a week on the shores of the Lake of Como. Go to

companionship /kəmˈpænjənʃɪp/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: companhia; companheirismo

Simple English: The friendly relationship and comfort of spending time with another person or animal.

Example: Their shared adventures created a lifelong sense of companionship.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Harmony was the soul of our companionship, and the diversity and contrast that subsisted in our characters drew us nearer together. Go to

concern /kənˈsɜːrn/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: preocupação; dizem respeito; interesse

Simple English: A feeling of worry or unease about a problem.

Example: His main concern is the safety of the children during the storm.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. For a long time, I was their only concern. Go to

constant /ˈkɒnstənt/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: constante; permanente; contínua

Simple English: Happening all the time; not changing; persistent.

Example: He had a constant smile on his face throughout the entire event.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. These thoughts kept me going as I worked with constant energy. Go to

cornelius /kɔːrˈniːliəs/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Cornelius

Simple English: The Portuguese trader who manages Stein's post in Patusan.

Example: Cornelius waited outside the trading post.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. There I found a book by Cornelius Agrippa. Go to

2. Cornelius Agrippa! Go to

3. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

4. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. Go to

5. Professor Krempe often asked me with a sly smile how Cornelius Agrippa was going, while M. Waldman was truly happy about my success. Go to

Original English Version

1. In this house I chanced to find a volume of the works of Cornelius Agrippa. Go to

2. Cornelius Agrippa! Go to

3. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Go to

4. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. Go to

5. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Go to

cottages /ˈkɑːtɪdʒɪz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chalés; casinhas de campo

Simple English: Small simple houses in the country.

Example: Four white cottages stood by the road.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They often visited poor cottages because they were kind-hearted. Go to

Original English Version

1. Their benevolent disposition often made them enter the cottages of the poor. Go to

creation (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: criação; produção; invenção

Simple English: the act of making something new

Example: The creation of the website took a month.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I will follow the path already marked, open a new one, explore unknown powers, and reveal the deepest secrets of creation to the world. Go to

2. I promised myself both when my creation was complete. Go to

creature's /ˈkriːtʃərz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: da criatura; do animal

Simple English: Belonging to a living being, especially an animal.

Example: The creature's tracks led straight to the river.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The rain hit the windows sadly, and my candle was almost gone, when, in the weak light, I saw the creature’s dull yellow eye open. Go to

Crop /krɒp/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: colheita; safra; cultura

Simple English: Plant cultivated over large land areas for food.

Example: The farmer harvested a great crop of corn this season.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The fields gave a rich harvest, and the vines produced a wonderful crop of grapes. Go to

crucible /ˈkruːsəbəl/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cadinho

Simple English: A heat-resistant container in which a substance, especially metal, is melted or strongly heated.

Example: He heated the metal in a clay crucible.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But these thinkers, whose hands seem made only for dirt and whose eyes look through the microscope or crucible, have truly done wonders. Go to

Original English Version

1. But these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. Go to

Date /deɪt/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: data; encontro; namorar

Simple English: A day of the month or year.

Example: What is today’s date?

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. So my departure was set for an early date. Go to

dearest /ˈdɪrɪst/ (28 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: querido; caríssimo; mais caro

Simple English: Most loved; also most expensive.

Example: My dearest wish is to see the sea again before I grow old.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I need not describe the feelings of those whose dearest ties are rent by that most irreparable evil; the void that presents itself to the soul; and the despair that is exhibited on the countenance. Go to

deathbed /ˈdeθbed/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: leito de morte

Simple English: The bed in which a person is dying, or the final period before death.

Example: He asked for his son from his deathbed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even on her deathbed, this best of women stayed brave and kind. Go to

Original English Version

1. On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. Go to

debt /dɛt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: dívida; débito; endividamento

Simple English: Money or favor that is owed.

Example: She worked hard to pay off her credit card debt last year.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. So, after paying his debts in an honorable way, he went with his daughter to Lucerne and lived there in secret and misery. Go to

deceived /dɪˈsiːvd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: enganado

Simple English: Caused to believe something that was not true.

Example: He feared that his own work had deceived him.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Go to

defeat /dɪˈfiːt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: derrota; derrotar; vencer

Simple English: To win against someone in a war, game, or contest.

Example: Our team managed to defeat the rivals in the championship match last week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But for some reason, their defeat made me stop my old studies. Go to

deformed /dɪˈfɔːrmd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: deformado

Simple English: having an unnaturally changed or misshapen form

Example: A small deformed image stood on the table.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. Go to

delight (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: prazer; alegria; encanto

Simple English: great pleasure or to please someone

Example: The children laughed with delight.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I read their strange ideas with delight. Go to

depended /dɪˈpɛndɪd/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dependia

Simple English: Was decided by something else.

Example: The picnic depended on the weather.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay. Go to

deserve /dɪˈzɜːrv/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: merece

Simple English: To merit a specific treatment due to actions or behavior.

Example: She worked hard and truly deserves the promotion she received.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. No father could earn a child’s gratitude as fully as I would deserve theirs. Go to

detail /ˈdiːteɪl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: detalhe; pormenor; detalhar

Simple English: To explain something thoroughly with specific information.

Example: In her presentation, she will detail the findings of her latest research project.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My eyes hurt as I watched every detail of my work. Go to

discoverers /dɪˈskʌvərərz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: descobridores

Simple English: People who find or identify something previously unknown.

Example: The lecturer praised the great scientific discoverers.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He began with the history of chemistry and the changes made by different scholars, speaking the names of the great discoverers with great feeling. Go to

Original English Version

1. He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. Go to

dismiss /dɪsˈmɪs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: demitir; dispensar; descartar

Simple English: To remove someone from their job or position.

Example: The company decided to dismiss the employee due to poor performance.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I dismissed natural history and all related studies as ugly and weak, and I felt deep contempt for a science that could never even reach the doorway of real knowledge. Go to

dissecting /daɪˈsɛktɪŋ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dissecando; de dissecação

Simple English: Cutting something open for study or relating to such work.

Example: The dissecting room smelled strongly of antiseptic.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse gave me many materials. Go to

Original English Version

1. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion. Go to

dizzy /ˈdɪzi/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tonto; zonzo

Simple English: Feeling that everything around you is turning.

Example: The fall made him look a little dizzy.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Go to

doth /dʌθ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: faz

Simple English: An archaic third-person singular form of “do,” meaning “does.”

Example: How doth the little crocodile improve its shining tail?

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. “Like one who, on a lonely road, Doth walk in fear and dread, And, having once turned round, walks on, And turns no more his head; Because he knows a frightful fiend Doth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

Original English Version

1. “Like one who, on a lonely road,Doth walk in fear and dread,And, having once turned round, walks on,And turns no more his head;Because he knows a frightful fiendDoth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

doubted /ˈdaʊtɪd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: duvidou

Simple English: Was not sure that something was true.

Example: Nobody doubted his honest words.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I doubted at first whether I should attempt the creation of a being like myself, or one of simpler organization; but my imagination was too much exalted by my first success to permit me to doubt of my ability to give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as man. Go to

2. The materials at present within my command hardly appeared adequate to so arduous an undertaking; but I doubted not that I should ultimately succeed. Go to

dreaded /ˈdrɛdɪd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: temeu; temido

Simple English: Felt great fear or anxiety about something; as an adjective, greatly feared.

Example: She almost dreaded his visits.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I dreaded to behold this monster; but I feared still more that Henry should see him. Go to

2. “Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. - Oh, save me! save me!” I imagined that the monster seized me; I struggled furiously, and fell down in a fit. Go to

dreamy /ˈdriːmi/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: sonhador; de quem sonha acordado

Simple English: Sounding or looking as if you are dreaming.

Example: She had a dreamy look on her face.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She enjoyed the poets and their dreamy worlds. Go to

eagerly /ˈiːɡərli/ (16 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: avidamente; com entusiasmo

Simple English: In a way that shows strong interest or excitement.

Example: She looked eagerly at the strange new sights.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My favorite books promised that ghosts or devils could be raised, and I eagerly tried to do this. Go to

2. I read eagerly the books by modern researchers, which were full of skill and careful thought. Go to

Original English Version

1. The peasant woman, perceiving that my mother fixed eyes of wonder and admiration on this lovely girl, eagerly communicated her history. Go to

2. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Go to

eagerness /ˈiːɡərnəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ânsia; entusiasmo; avidez

Simple English: A strong wish to do or have something soon.

Example: The children waited by the door with obvious eagerness.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I therefore kept reading with great eagerness. Go to

2. I can see from your eagerness and the wonder in your eyes that you want to know the secret I learned. Go to

3. Often my human feelings made me hate what I was doing, yet my growing eagerness drove me on until my work was nearly finished. Go to

Original English Version

1. I see by your eagerness, and the wonder and hope which your eyes express, my friend, that you expect to be informed of the secret with which I am acquainted; that cannot be: listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will easily perceive why I am reserved upon that subject. Go to

2. One secret which I alone possessed was the hope to which I had dedicated myself; and the moon gazed on my midnight labours, while, with unrelaxed and breathless eagerness, I pursued nature to her hiding-places. Go to

3. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion. Go to

eighteenth /ˌeɪˈtiːnθ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: décimo oitavo

Simple English: Coming after the seventeenth in a sequence.

Example: He enlisted on his eighteenth birthday.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It may seem strange that this happened in the eighteenth century, but while I followed school lessons in Geneva, I was mostly teaching myself in my favorite studies. Go to

Original English Version

1. It may appear strange that such should arise in the eighteenth century; but while I followed the routine of education in the schools of Geneva, I was, to a great degree, self taught with regard to my favourite studies. Go to

elixir /ɪˈlɪksər/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: elixir

Simple English: A magical or medicinal liquid believed to cure illness or prolong life.

Example: The alchemist searched for the elixir of life.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Guided by my new teachers, I worked hard to find the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life. Go to

2. Soon, however, the elixir of life became my only aim. Go to

3. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be changed into other metals, and that the elixir of life is only a dream. Go to

Original English Version

1. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Go to

2. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted, and that the elixir of life is a chimera. Go to

elizabeth's /ɪˈlɪzəbəθs/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de Elizabeth

Simple English: possessive form of the woman's name Elizabeth

Example: If I had any right to speak about such a serious matter as a minister's marriage, I would say that Elizabeth's cousin Sarah would make a good match.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Elizabeth’s pure spirit shone in our peaceful home like a lamp in a shrine. Go to

2. But when she heard that Elizabeth’s life was at risk, she could no longer stay away. Go to

3. She joined Elizabeth’s hands with mine and said, "My children, I had the strongest hopes of future happiness because of your marriage. Go to

empires /ˈempaɪərz/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: impérios

Simple English: Large groups of territories ruled by one sovereign power.

Example: The outcome of the Great Game could decide the fate of empires.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If people always followed this rule and never let any goal disturb the peace of family life, Greece would not have been enslaved, Caesar would have spared his country, America would have been discovered more slowly, and the empires of Mexico and Peru would not have been destroyed. Go to

Original English Version

1. If this rule were always observed; if no man allowed any pursuit whatsoever to interfere with the tranquillity of his domestic affections, Greece had not been enslaved; Caesar would have spared his country; America would have been discovered more gradually; and the empires of Mexico and Peru had not been destroyed. Go to

emptiness /ˈɛmptinəs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: vazio

Simple English: The state of having nothing inside or around.

Example: He looked out at the emptiness of the desert.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. There is an emptiness in the soul and despair on the face. Go to

enslaved /ɪnˈsleɪvd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: escravizado; escravizou

Simple English: Made someone a slave, or kept someone under complete control.

Example: Thousands of people were enslaved and shipped across the ocean.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If people always followed this rule and never let any goal disturb the peace of family life, Greece would not have been enslaved, Caesar would have spared his country, America would have been discovered more slowly, and the empires of Mexico and Peru would not have been destroyed. Go to

Original English Version

1. If this rule were always observed; if no man allowed any pursuit whatsoever to interfere with the tranquillity of his domestic affections, Greece had not been enslaved; Caesar would have spared his country; America would have been discovered more gradually; and the empires of Mexico and Peru had not been destroyed. Go to

enthusiasm /ɪnˈθjuːziæzəm/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: entusiasmo

Simple English: A feeling of great excitement, passion, or eagerness toward something.

Example: Her enthusiasm for the project inspired everyone on the team to work harder.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My enthusiasm surprised the students, and my skill surprised the teachers. Go to

exhaustion /ɪɡˈzɔːstʃən/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: exaustão; esgotamento

Simple English: The state of being extremely tired, with no strength left.

Example: After the race he slept for twelve hours from sheer exhaustion.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At other times I nearly fell to the ground from weakness and exhaustion. Go to

experimenter /ɪkˈsperɪmentər/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: experimentador; pesquisador

Simple English: A person who carries out experiments.

Example: The experimenter carefully recorded every change.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If you truly want to become a man of science, and not just a small experimenter, I advise you to study every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics.” Go to

extreme /ɪkˈstriːm/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: extrema; radicais; exagerado

Simple English: Very high in intensity or degree of conditions.

Example: We experienced extreme temperatures this summer, leading to heat advisories everywhere.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After days and nights of extreme work and tiredness, I discovered the cause of life and birth. Go to

Failure /ˈfeɪljər/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: falha; fracasso; insuficiência

Simple English: Absence of success or unsuccessful result of effort.

Example: The project was considered a failure due to poor planning and execution.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I expected many failures. Go to

fearfully /ˈfɪrfəli/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: temerosamente; com medo; terrivelmente

Simple English: In a frightened way; in older English it also means very much.

Example: The cat looked fearfully at the open door.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I went in fearfully. Go to

Original English Version

1. I stepped fearfully in: the apartment was empty; and my bedroom was also freed from its hideous guest. Go to

fibres /ˈfaɪbərz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fibras

Simple English: Thin thread-like strands that make up plant or animal tissue.

Example: The stem was full of tough fibres.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even though I could give life, it was still incredibly hard work to prepare a body with its many fibres, muscles, and veins. Go to

Original English Version

1. Although I possessed the capacity of bestowing animation, yet to prepare a frame for the reception of it, with all its intricacies of fibres, muscles, and veins, still remained a work of inconceivable difficulty and labour. Go to

fiend /fiːnd/ (49 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: demônio

Simple English: an evil spirit or a person of extreme cruelty

Example: He feared that a frightful fiend followed close behind.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. “Like one who, on a lonely road, Doth walk in fear and dread, And, having once turned round, walks on, And turns no more his head; Because he knows a frightful fiend Doth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

firm /fɜːrm/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: firme; empresa; escritório

Simple English: A company or business, often owned by two or more partners.

Example: He works at a law firm that specializes in family law.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then I turned to mathematics and the subjects connected with it, because they seemed based on firm ground and worthy of my attention. Go to

2. She faced life firmly and took on her duties with courage and energy. Go to

3. He said little, but when he spoke, I could see in his bright eyes and lively face a hidden but firm decision not to be tied to the dull life of trade. Go to

folds /foʊldz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: dobras; pregas

Simple English: Parts of cloth that lie one over another.

Example: He hid the letter in the folds of his coat.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A shroud covered her, and I saw worms in the folds of the cloth. Go to

Original English Version

1. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Go to

foolishly /ˈfuːlɪʃli/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tolamente

Simple English: In a way that shows no good sense.

Example: He foolishly spent all his money in one day.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I had looked at the barriers that seemed to keep humans from entering nature’s stronghold, and I had complained foolishly and without knowledge. Go to

forgetfulness /fərˈɡetfəlnəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: esquecimento; falta de memória

Simple English: The habit or state of not remembering things.

Example: He blamed his forgetfulness on the long journey.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. At length lassitude succeeded to the tumult I had before endured; and I threw myself on the bed in my clothes, endeavouring to seek a few moments of forgetfulness. Go to

forgive /fərˈɡɪv/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: perdoar; Desculpe

Simple English: To stop being angry and choose not to punish someone.

Example: It’s important to forgive those who have wronged you for inner peace.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. You must forgive me if I think that any break in your letters means you are neglecting your other duties too.” Go to

forgiving /fərˈɡɪvɪŋ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: que perdoa; indulgente

Simple English: Ready to forgive and not to punish.

Example: She gave him a forgiving look.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My parents were very kind and forgiving. Go to

former /ˈfɔːrmər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: antigo; ex; anterior

Simple English: Referring to the first of two mentioned people or things.

Example: The former president gave a speech at the ceremony yesterday.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. In a youthful mood of changing feelings, I gave up my former work at once. Go to

2. I gave him nearly the same account of my former studies as I had given his colleague. Go to

fortune /ˈfɔːrtʃən/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fortuna; sorte; fonseca

Simple English: Very large sum of money or valuable assets.

Example: She inherited a fortune from her grandparents and became very wealthy.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Beaufort had saved only a little money from his ruined fortunes. Go to

2. I could hardly believe such good fortune. Go to

Forward /ˈfɔːrwərd/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: encaminhar; frente; avançar

Simple English: To send received email or message to another person.

Example: Please forward the email to everyone on the team.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. No one can imagine the many feelings that drove me forward like a hurricane in the first joy of success. Go to

2. A meeting he had looked forward to with so much joy had turned into sadness. Go to

frankenstein /ˈfræŋkənstaɪn/ (55 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: monstro; criação que se volta contra o criador

Simple English: A dangerous creation that escapes control and may destroy its creator.

Example: They feared that the invention would become a Frankenstein.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. So much has been done, cried the soul of Frankenstein, and I will do more, far more. Go to

2. “My dear Frankenstein,” he cried, “how happy I am to see you! Go to

3. But, my dear Frankenstein,” he said, stopping and looking closely at me, “I did not notice before how ill you look. Go to

Original English Version

1. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation. Go to

2. “My dear Frankenstein,” exclaimed he, “how glad I am to see you! how fortunate that you should be here at the very moment of my alighting!” Go to

3. By the by, I mean to lecture you a little upon their account myself. - But, my dear Frankenstein,” continued he, stopping short, and gazing full in my face, “I did not before remark how very ill you appear; so thin and pale; you look as if you had been watching for several nights.” Go to

Freedom /ˈfriːdəm/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: liberdade

Simple English: Right to act, speak, or think without restriction.

Example: Everyone deserves the freedom to express their own opinions.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The child’s father was one of those Italians who still remembered the old glory of Italy and fought for the freedom of his country. Go to

frightful /ˈfraɪtfəl/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: terrível; assustador

Simple English: Causing fear, shock, or great distress.

Example: The storm broke with frightful force.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. “Like one who, on a lonely road, Doth walk in fear and dread, And, having once turned round, walks on, And turns no more his head; Because he knows a frightful fiend Doth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

Original English Version

1. It advanced from behind the mountains of Jura; and the thunder burst at once with frightful loudness from various quarters of the heavens. Go to

2. “Like one who, on a lonely road,Doth walk in fear and dread,And, having once turned round, walks on,And turns no more his head;Because he knows a frightful fiendDoth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

gain /ɡeɪn/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ganho; ganhar; ganham

Simple English: To obtain or achieve something desired or needed.

Example: He hopes to gain valuable experience from this internship opportunity.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They have gained new powers beyond measure. Go to

galvanism /ˈɡælvənɪzəm/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: galvanismo

Simple English: The production of electric current by chemical action, especially as understood in early electrical science.

Example: The lecturer explained a new theory of electricity and galvanism.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Moved by the strange event, he explained a theory about electricity and galvanism that was new and amazing to me. Go to

Original English Version

1. On this occasion a man of great research in natural philosophy was with us, and, excited by this catastrophe, he entered on the explanation of a theory which he had formed on the subject of electricity and galvanism, which was at once new and astonishing to me. Go to

gardener /ˈɡɑːrdənər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: jardineiro

Simple English: A person who takes care of a garden.

Example: The gardener cut the tall grass.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to protect her from all hardship, like a gardener protecting a rare flower from rough weather, and to surround her with things that would please her kind mind. Go to

Original English Version

1. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Go to

gentler /ˈdʒentlər/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais suave; mais brando; mais delicado

Simple English: Kinder, softer or less rough than before.

Example: Use a gentler soap if your skin is dry.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I might have become gloomy in my studies and rough because of my intense nature, but she was there to make me gentler. Go to

2. In private, he was even gentler and more pleasant than in public. Go to

glanced /ɡlænst/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: lançou um olhar; deu uma olhada

Simple English: Looked at something quickly.

Example: She glanced at the clock and stood up.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He only glanced at the title page and said, “Ah! Go to

glide /ɡlaɪd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: deslizar; planar

Simple English: To move smoothly and quietly without visible effort.

Example: The canoe seemed to glide across the still inlet.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. “Do not ask me,” I cried, covering my eyes, because I thought I saw the awful ghost glide into the room. Go to

Original English Version

1. “Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. - Oh, save me! save me!” I imagined that the monster seized me; I struggled furiously, and fell down in a fit. Go to

gloomy /ˈɡluːmi/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sombrio; escuro; lúgubre

Simple English: Dark and depressing, or sad and without hope.

Example: The waiting room was gloomy even at midday.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I might have become gloomy in my studies and rough because of my intense nature, but she was there to make me gentler. Go to

Original English Version

1. I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Go to

goat's /ɡoʊts/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: de cabra

Simple English: Belonging to a goat.

Example: They drank warm goat's milk at dawn.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her movements were as light as a mountain goat’s. Go to

grab /ɡræb/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: agarrar; pegue; pegar

Simple English: To take someone or something suddenly or violently.

Example: She decided to grab her bag and leave quickly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Save me!” I thought the monster had grabbed me. Go to

heartless /ˈhɑːrtləs/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desalmado; sem coração

Simple English: Showing no pity or kindness at all.

Example: It was heartless to leave the dog out in that cold.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him. Go to

hesitated /ˈhɛzɪteɪtɪd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: hesitou; vacilou

Simple English: Waited before acting because of doubt or fear.

Example: The Lion no longer hesitated.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I found such amazing power in my hands, I hesitated for a long time about how to use it. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I found so astonishing a power placed within my hands, I hesitated a long time concerning the manner in which I should employ it. Go to

hideous /ˈhɪdiəs/ (13 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: horrendo; repulsivo

Simple English: extremely ugly, frightening, or unpleasant

Example: The creature's hideous face filled him with fear.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. A mummy again endued with animation could not be so hideous as that wretch. Go to

2. I stepped fearfully in: the apartment was empty; and my bedroom was also freed from its hideous guest. Go to

Holy /ˈhoʊli/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: Santo; sagrado; Santa

Simple English: Sacred and respected within a religious context or belief system.

Example: The church is a holy place for many people to worship.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre. Go to

hugged /hʌɡd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abraçou

Simple English: Held someone closely in the arms to show love.

Example: He was so happy that he hugged them all.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Happy and surprised, I hugged her. Go to

humankind /ˌhjuːmənˈkaɪnd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: humanidade; gênero humano

Simple English: All human beings considered as a group.

Example: The discovery could benefit all humankind.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He added that the work of great minds, even when they are partly wrong, almost always ends by helping humankind. Go to

hurried /ˈhɜːrid/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: correram; foram depressa

Simple English: Moved or went quickly.

Example: The mice hurried away through the grass.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My heart beat fast with fear, and I hurried on with uneven steps, not daring to look around me: Go to

Original English Version

1. My heart palpitated in the sickness of fear; and I hurried on with irregular steps, not daring to look about me: - Go to

idleness /ˈaɪdəlnəs/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ociosidade; preguiça

Simple English: The state of doing nothing useful.

Example: Long idleness made him restless.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. His father was a narrow-minded trader, and saw idleness and ruin in the aspirations and ambition of his son. Go to

2. Partly from curiosity, and partly from idleness, I went into the lecturing room, which M. Waldman entered shortly after. Go to

imagination (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: imaginação; criatividade; fantasia

Simple English: the ability to create ideas in the mind

Example: Children use imagination when they play.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My keen imagination and childish thinking led me on, until an accident changed my ideas again. Go to

2. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

3. But I could not turn my mind away from my work, which was unpleasant in itself but had a powerful hold on my imagination. Go to

imaginative /ɪˈmædʒɪnətɪv/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: imaginativos; de imaginação

Simple English: Able to think of new and interesting ideas.

Example: She is an imaginative writer of stories.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He was talented and imaginative. Go to

immortality /ˌɪmɔːrˈtæləti/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: imortalidade

Simple English: the state of living forever or being remembered forever

Example: How could they live without their dream of immortality?

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It was different when scientists sought immortality and power; even if those goals were impossible, they were grand. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was very different, when the masters of the science sought immortality and power; such views, although futile, were grand: but now the scene was changed. Go to

imperfect /ɪmˈpɜːrfɪkt/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: imperfeito; incompleto; defeituoso

Simple English: Having faults, or not complete.

Example: The plan was imperfect, but it was better than nothing.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My work might be blocked again and again, and in the end it might still be imperfect. Go to

Original English Version

1. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Go to

incredibly /ɪnˈkrɛdəbli/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: incrivelmente; extremamente

Simple English: To an extremely great or surprising degree.

Example: The movie was incredibly interesting; I couldn't stop watching.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even though I could give life, it was still incredibly hard work to prepare a body with its many fibres, muscles, and veins. Go to

ingolstadt /ˈɪŋɡoʊlʃtɑːt/ (32 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Ingolstadt

Simple English: the name of a university city in Germany where the narrator studied

Example: My parents decided that I should study at the university of Ingolstadt.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I was seventeen, my parents decided that I should study at the university of Ingolstadt. Go to

2. My departure for Ingolstadt, which had been delayed by these events, was now decided again. Go to

3. During my journey to Ingolstadt, I had enough time for these and many other thoughts. Go to

4. During my first two or three days at Ingolstadt, I spent most of my time learning the town and meeting the main people in my new home. Go to

5. By then I knew the theory and practice of natural philosophy as well as any lessons from the professors at Ingolstadt could teach me. Go to

6. I thought I saw Elizabeth, young and healthy, walking in the streets of Ingolstadt. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I had attained the age of seventeen, my parents resolved that I should become a student at the university of Ingolstadt. Go to

2. My departure for Ingolstadt, which had been deferred by these events, was now again determined upon. Go to

3. I had sufficient leisure for these and many other reflections during my journey to Ingolstadt, which was long and fatiguing. Go to

4. Such were my reflections during the first two or three days of my residence at Ingolstadt, which were chiefly spent in becoming acquainted with the localities, and the principal residents in my new abode. Go to

5. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay. Go to

6. I thought I saw Elizabeth, in the bloom of health, walking in the streets of Ingolstadt. Go to

inner /ˈɪnər/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: interior; íntimo

Simple English: Situated inside of something else; internal or central.

Example: She found peace in her inner thoughts during her quiet meditation practice.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My inner self was in rebellion and confusion. Go to

intense /ɪnˈtɛns/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: intenso

Simple English: Extremely great in degree, strength, or emotional or physical impact.

Example: The intense workout left him feeling exhausted but accomplished afterward.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I was more intense and loved learning deeply. Go to

2. I might have become gloomy in my studies and rough because of my intense nature, but she was there to make me gentler. Go to

jokingly /ˈdʒoʊkɪŋli/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: gracejando; de brincadeira

Simple English: In a way that is meant to be funny.

Example: He jokingly called himself the boss.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The evening before she came to my home, my mother said, jokingly, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” The next day she gave Elizabeth to me as her promised gift. Go to

joys /dʒɔɪz/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: alegrias; prazeres

Simple English: Feelings of great happiness, or the things that cause them.

Example: One of the small joys of winter is a hot bath.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. We knew they were not cruel rulers deciding our lives by chance, but the people who gave us all our joys. Go to

2. But as it grew, it became a great flood that swept away all my hopes and joys. Go to

Original English Version

1. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys. Go to

jura /ˈdʒʊərə/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Jura

Simple English: the name of a real mountain range on the French-Swiss border

Example: The best place for such inflammable nonsense.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It came from behind the Jura mountains, and thunder exploded loudly from many parts of the sky. Go to

Original English Version

1. It advanced from behind the mountains of Jura; and the thunder burst at once with frightful loudness from various quarters of the heavens. Go to

kinder /ˈkaɪndər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais bondoso; mais gentil

Simple English: More kind than someone or something else.

Example: His new heart felt kinder than the old one.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry knew I could not have had a kinder nurse, and he hoped I would recover. Go to

kindest /ˈkaɪndɪst/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: o mais bondoso; o mais gentil

Simple English: The most kind of all.

Example: He promised her the kindest heart in the Land of Oz.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He knew that I could not have a more kind and attentive nurse than himself; and, firm in the hope he felt of my recovery, he did not doubt that, instead of doing harm, he performed the kindest action that he could towards them. Go to

knelt /nɛlt/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ajoelhou-se

Simple English: Went down so that the knees were on the ground.

Example: She knelt beside the little dog and held it.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She knelt by Beaufort’s coffin and cried bitterly when my father entered the room. Go to

Original English Version

1. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. Go to

krempe /ˈkrɛmpə/ (18 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Krempe

Simple English: a professor of natural philosophy (science) mentioned in the story.

Example: Krempe, the professor of natural philosophy.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. By chance, or rather through the evil influence that seemed to guide me after I left my father’s house, I first went to Mr. Krempe, the professor of natural philosophy. Go to

2. “Every minute,” said Mr. Krempe angrily, “every moment you spent on those books is completely lost. Go to

3. Mr. Krempe was short and broad, with a rough voice and an unpleasant face, so he did not make me like his subject. Go to

4. But when the next week began, I remembered what Mr. Krempe had told me about the lectures. Go to

5. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. Go to

6. Even in M. Krempe I found much good sense and real knowledge, though his face and manners were unpleasant. Go to

Original English Version

1. Chance - or rather the evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant steps from my father’s door - led me first to Mr. Krempe, professor of natural philosophy. Go to

2. “Every minute,” continued Mr. Krempe with warmth, “every instant that you have wasted on those books is utterly and entirely lost. Go to

3. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. Go to

4. But as the ensuing week commenced, I thought of the information which Mr. Krempe had given me concerning the lectures. Go to

5. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. Go to

6. I attended the lectures, and cultivated the acquaintance, of the men of science of the university; and I found even in M. Krempe a great deal of sound sense and real information, combined, it is true, with a repulsive physiognomy and manners, but not on that account the less valuable. Go to

lavenza /ləˈvɛnzə/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Lavenza

Simple English: The surname of Elizabeth Lavenza, who came to live with the narrator's family.

Example: Elizabeth Lavenza came to live in my parents' house.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They asked their village priest for advice, and in the end Elizabeth Lavenza came to live in my parents’ house. Go to

Original English Version

1. They consulted their village priest, and the result was, that Elizabeth Lavenza became the inmate of my parents’ house - my more than sister - the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures. Go to

laziness /ˈleɪzinəs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: preguiça

Simple English: The habit of not wanting to work.

Example: He lost the place through pure laziness.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His father was a narrow-minded trader and saw only laziness and ruin in his son’s hopes and ambition. Go to

league /liːɡ/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: liga; campeonato

Simple English: Organized group of teams competing seasonally for ranked standings.

Example: The football league starts next month with ten participating teams.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. We had a house in Geneva and a country home on Bellerive, on the eastern side of the lake, a little more than a league from the city. Go to

lifeless /ˈlaɪfləs/ (15 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sem vida; inanimado; apático

Simple English: Dead, or without energy and interest.

Example: The town looked lifeless on a Sunday afternoon.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. With fear almost like pain, I placed the tools of life around me, so I could give life to the lifeless thing at my feet. Go to

Original English Version

1. After days and nights of incredible labour and fatigue, I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life; nay, more, I became myself capable of bestowing animation upon lifeless matter. Go to

2. Pursuing these reflections, I thought, that if I could bestow animation upon lifeless matter, I might in process of time (although I now found it impossible) renew life where death had apparently devoted the body to corruption. Go to

3. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? Go to

4. With an anxiety that almost amounted to agony, I collected the instruments of life around me, that I might infuse a spark of being into the lifeless thing that lay at my feet. Go to

5. But I was not the witness of his grief; for I was lifeless, and did not recover my senses for a long, long time. Go to

lively /ˈlaɪvli/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: animada; vívido; alegre

Simple English: Full of energy and excitement; animated in action.

Example: The lively music made everyone want to dance and celebrate.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He said little, but when he spoke, I could see in his bright eyes and lively face a hidden but firm decision not to be tied to the dull life of trade. Go to

loathing /ˈloʊðɪŋ/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: repugnância; ódio profundo

Simple English: A very strong feeling of dislike and disgust.

Example: He spoke of the place with open loathing.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion. Go to

longed /lɔːŋd/ (18 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ansiava; desejava profundamente

Simple English: Wanted something very much, often for a long time.

Example: Stubb longed for vermillion stars to be painted upon the blade of his every oar; screwing each oar in his big vice of wood, the carpenter symmetrically supplies the constellation.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At home, I had often felt it was hard to spend my youth shut up in one place, and I had longed to see the world and take my place among other people. Go to

Original English Version

1. I had often, when at home, thought it hard to remain during my youth cooped up in one place, and had longed to enter the world, and take my station among other human beings. Go to

lucerne /luːˈsɜːrn/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Lucerna

Simple English: a city in Switzerland

Example: He went with his daughter to Lucerne and lived there in secret.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. So, after paying his debts in an honorable way, he went with his daughter to Lucerne and lived there in secret and misery. Go to

Original English Version

1. Having paid his debts, therefore, in the most honourable manner, he retreated with his daughter to the town of Lucerne, where he lived unknown and in wretchedness. Go to

madman /ˈmædmæn/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: louco; doido

Simple English: A man who behaves in a wild, crazy way.

Example: He drove like a madman down the narrow road.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Remember, I am not telling the dream of a madman. Go to

Original English Version

1. Remember, I am not recording the vision of a madman. Go to

magnus /ˈmæɡnəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Magno

Simple English: the name of a church, Saint Magnus, in London

Example: The towers of Saint Saviour's and Saint Magnus were visible.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I returned home, I first got the full works of this writer, and then those of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

3. I did not expect, in this wise and scientific age, to meet a follower of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I returned home, my first care was to procure the whole works of this author, and afterwards of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Go to

3. I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

Master /ˈmæstər/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mestre; dominar; patrão

Simple English: Highly skilled person in an art, often historically recognized.

Example: Vincent van Gogh is considered a master of post-impressionist painting.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be changed into other metals, and that the elixir of life is only a dream. Go to

material /məˈtɪriəl/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: material

Simple English: The substance used to make something.

Example: This material is very strong.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The materials I had then were hardly enough for such a difficult task, but I believed I would finally succeed. Go to

2. After this decision, and after several months of collecting and arranging my materials, I began. Go to

3. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse gave me many materials. Go to

means /miːnz/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: significa; meios; quer dizer

Simple English: A method, system, or object used to achieve a goal.

Example: Education is one of the means to achieve a successful career.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. You must forgive me if I think that any break in your letters means you are neglecting your other duties too.” Go to

merchant's /ˈmɜrtʃənts/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do comerciante; da comerciante

Simple English: Belonging to a person who buys and sells goods.

Example: They entered the merchant's store.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It was enough to live on for a few months, while he hoped to find respectable work in a merchant’s house. Go to

Original English Version

1. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. Go to

miserably /ˈmɪzərəbli/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: miseravelmente; tristemente; lamentavelmente

Simple English: In a very unhappy way, or very badly.

Example: The first attempt failed miserably.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life. Go to

misfortune /mɪsˈfɔːrtʃuːn/ (25 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: infortúnio

Simple English: An unlucky event.

Example: The accident was a misfortune.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I take great pleasure in remembering my childhood, before misfortune changed my mind and turned my hopeful dreams of helping others into dark, selfish thoughts. Go to

2. But before that day arrived, the first misfortune of my life happened, like a sign of the misery that would later come. Go to

Original English Version

1. I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Go to

2. My departure was therefore fixed at an early date; but, before the day resolved upon could arrive, the first misfortune of my life occurred - an omen, as it were, of my future misery. Go to

3. Henry deeply felt the misfortune of being debarred from a liberal education. Go to

4. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy. Go to

Mistake /mɪˈsteɪk/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: erro; engano; equívoco

Simple English: An action or judgment that is incorrect or wrong.

Example: Learning from a mistake is often more important than getting everything right.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If my spells failed, I blamed my own lack of experience and mistakes, not my teachers. Go to

mixed /mɪkst/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: misto; misturado; mixado

Simple English: Consisting of different types combined together.

Example: The salad was a mixed variety, containing both leafy greens and colorful vegetables.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I mixed a thousand opposite ideas like someone who had not learned the craft, and I struggled in a deep swamp of many kinds of knowledge. Go to

2. But my excitement was mixed with fear. Go to

moral /ˈmɒrəl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: moral

Simple English: Following ethical principles of right and wrong behavior consistently.

Example: He always tries to make moral decisions, considering what is right.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Clerval cared about the moral side of life. Go to

2. But I forget that I am giving moral lessons at the most interesting part of my story, and your looks remind me to go on. Go to

mysterious /mɪˈstɪriəs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: misterioso

Simple English: Having puzzling qualities suggesting hidden motives or secrets.

Example: The old house had a mysterious aura that intrigued the children.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I wanted to understand the outer nature of things, the hidden spirit of nature, and the mysterious soul of man. Go to

narrow (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: estreito; estreitar; restringir

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His father was a narrow-minded trader and saw only laziness and ruin in his son’s hopes and ambition. Go to

nature's /ˈneɪtʃərz/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: da natureza

Simple English: Belonging to the natural world.

Example: Frost is one of nature's quietest workers.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I have said that I always had a strong desire to understand nature’s secrets. Go to

2. I had looked at the barriers that seemed to keep humans from entering nature’s stronghold, and I had complained foolishly and without knowledge. Go to

3. The moon watched my late-night work as I searched nature’s hidden places without rest. Go to

4. But I could not enjoy nature’s beauty. Go to

nearer /ˈnɪrər/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais perto; mais próximo

Simple English: Closer in distance.

Example: The land grows beautiful as one comes nearer the city.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As it came nearer, I saw it was the Swiss diligence. Go to

Original English Version

1. Harmony was the soul of our companionship, and the diversity and contrast that subsisted in our characters drew us nearer together. Go to

2. As it drew nearer, I observed that it was the Swiss diligence: it stopped just where I was standing; and, on the door being opened, I perceived Henry Clerval, who, on seeing me, instantly sprung out. Go to

neglecting /nɪˈɡlektɪŋ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: negligenciando

Simple English: failing to give needed care or attention

Example: She was neglecting her health.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. You must forgive me if I think that any break in your letters means you are neglecting your other duties too.” Go to

nobleman /ˈnoʊbəlmən/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: nobre; fidalgo

Simple English: A man belonging to the highest class in society by birth or title.

Example: A nobleman owned every field in the valley.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She was the daughter of a nobleman from Milan. Go to

Original English Version

1. She was not her child, but the daughter of a Milanese nobleman. Go to

outer /ˈaʊtər/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: exterior

Simple English: Located on the outside surface or edge of something.

Example: The outer part of the house needs a fresh coat of paint.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I wanted to understand the outer nature of things, the hidden spirit of nature, and the mysterious soul of man. Go to

overcame /ˌɑʊvərkæmɛ/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fazer come em excesso

Simple English: to do, have, or cause come more than is suitable or necessary

Example: Wopsle’s great-aunt successfully overcame that bad habit of living, so highly desirable to be got rid of by some people.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She watched over her sick bed, and her care overcame the disease. Go to

Original English Version

1. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. Go to

2. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Go to

overjoyed /ˌoʊvərˈdʒɔɪd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: radiante de alegria; jubiloso

Simple English: Extremely happy about something.

Example: She was overjoyed to hear that they had arrived safely.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. Overjoyed at this discovery, he hastened to the house, which was situated in a mean street, near the Reuss. Go to

painfully /ˈpeɪnfəli/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: penosamente; com esforço

Simple English: In a way that causes pain, or with great difficulty.

Example: He climbed the stairs slowly and painfully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Every night I had a low fever, and I became painfully nervous. Go to

paracelsus /ˌpærəˈsɛlsəs/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Paracelso

Simple English: a famous Renaissance physician and alchemist referenced in the story

Example: And likewise call to mind that saying of Paracelsus about what it is that maketh the best musk.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I returned home, I first got the full works of this writer, and then those of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. What he said made Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, who had filled my imagination, seem far less important. Go to

3. I did not expect, in this wise and scientific age, to meet a follower of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

4. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I returned home, my first care was to procure the whole works of this author, and afterwards of Paracelsus and Albertus Magnus. Go to

2. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Go to

3. I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

4. He heard with attention the little narration concerning my studies, and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the contempt that M. Krempe had exhibited. Go to

partly /ˈpɑːrtli/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: parcialmente

Simple English: To some degree; not completely or wholly.

Example: The event was partly successful, but improvements are needed.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He had partly revealed Nature, but her true form was still a wonder and a mystery. Go to

2. He added that the work of great minds, even when they are partly wrong, almost always ends by helping humankind. Go to

patiently /ˈpeɪʃəntli/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pacientemente; com paciência

Simple English: In a calm way, without complaining while waiting.

Example: He waited patiently until morning came.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will understand why I keep it back. Go to

Original English Version

1. I see by your eagerness, and the wonder and hope which your eyes express, my friend, that you expect to be informed of the secret with which I am acquainted; that cannot be: listen patiently until the end of my story, and you will easily perceive why I am reserved upon that subject. Go to

paused /pɔːzd/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fez uma pausa

Simple English: stopped briefly before continuing

Example: He paused for a moment.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Go to

2. Here I paused, I knew not why; but I remained some minutes with my eyes fixed on a coach that was coming towards me from the other end of the street. Go to

3. I then paused; and a cold shivering came over me. Go to

pedantic /pɪˈdæntɪk/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: pedante

Simple English: too concerned with small rules or details

Example: His pedantic comments stopped the story.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He taught with honesty and kindness, and he never seemed proud or pedantic. Go to

philosopher's /fəˈlɒsəfərz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do filósofo

Simple English: The possessive form of philosopher, a person who studies or develops ideas about knowledge, reality, and conduct.

Example: Morse criticized the English philosopher's agnosticism without reading his main work.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Guided by my new teachers, I worked hard to find the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life. Go to

Original English Version

1. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Go to

philosophy /fɪˈlɑːsəfi/ (14 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: filosofia

Simple English: The study of fundamental questions about existence and knowledge systematically.

Example: Philosophy encourages people to reflect on their beliefs and understanding of life.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Natural philosophy shaped my fate, so I want to explain what led me to love that science. Go to

2. The scientists after him, in the branches of natural philosophy that I knew, seemed to me like beginners working on the same task. Go to

3. That day, a man who studied natural philosophy deeply was with us. Go to

4. By chance, or rather through the evil influence that seemed to guide me after I left my father’s house, I first went to Mr. Krempe, the professor of natural philosophy. Go to

5. He asked me several questions about my progress in the different parts of natural philosophy. Go to

6. Then he stepped aside and wrote down a list of books on natural philosophy that he wanted me to get. Go to

plaited /ˈplætɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: trançado

Simple English: Made by twisting strands together.

Example: It hung on square plaited copper wire.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. She took simple sewing work and plaited straw. Go to

Original English Version

1. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life. Go to

plaything /ˈpleɪθɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: brinquedo; joguete

Simple English: A toy, or a person treated like a toy.

Example: The child made a plaything of the box.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I was their plaything and their treasure, but I was also more than that: I was their child, given to them by Heaven. Go to

Original English Version

1. I was their plaything and their idol, and something better - their child, the innocent and helpless creature bestowed on them by Heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery, according as they fulfilled their duties towards me. Go to

praise /preɪz/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: louvor; louvar; elogios

Simple English: To express admiration or approval toward someone or something.

Example: The teacher will praise students who submit their projects on time.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I accepted every praise of her as praise for something I owned. Go to

2. After a few simple experiments, he finished with high praise for modern chemistry, words I could never forget: Go to

presence (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: presença; comparecimento; existência

Simple English: the fact of being in a place

Example: His presence made everyone calmer.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They loved the sweet orphan, and her presence had seemed like a blessing. Go to

produce /prəˈdjuːs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: produzir; produto; gerar

Simple English: To provide money and oversee the creation of a movie, play, or show.

Example: They want to produce a documentary about climate change this year.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The fields gave a rich harvest, and the vines produced a wonderful crop of grapes. Go to

professor's /prəˈfɛsərz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: do professor; da professora

Simple English: The possessive form of professor, meaning belonging to a senior teacher or academic expert.

Example: The student sat at the professor's feet, eager to learn.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. These were the professor’s words, or rather the words of fate, spoken to destroy me. Go to

Original English Version

1. Such were the professor’s words - rather let me say such the words of fate, enounced to destroy me. Go to

progress /ˈprɑːɡrɛs/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: progresso; andamento; progredir

Simple English: Gradual movement toward achieving a specific goal.

Example: We need to keep track of our progress in the project each week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He asked me several questions about my progress in the different parts of natural philosophy. Go to

2. Chemistry is the part of natural philosophy where the greatest progress has been made, and may still be made. Go to

3. Because I worked so hard, I made quick progress. Go to

protection /prəˈtɛkʃən/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: proteção; defesa

Simple English: The act of keeping people or things safe from harm.

Example: Wearing a helmet is essential for your protection while cycling.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But it would not be right to keep her in poverty when Providence offered her such strong protection. Go to

pulpit /ˈpʊlpɪt/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: púlpito

Simple English: The raised place in a church where the preacher stands.

Example: The old priest climbed into the pulpit.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I could not bear to hear that proud little man speak from a pulpit, but I did remember what he had said about M. Waldman, whom I had never seen because he had been away from town until then. Go to

Original English Version

1. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town. Go to

pure /pjʊər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: puro; pura; puros

Simple English: Not combined or mixed with anything else; clean or unmixed.

Example: She prefers pure water without any additives or flavors in it.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Elizabeth’s pure spirit shone in our peaceful home like a lamp in a shrine. Go to

recover /rɪˈkʌvər/ (9 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: recuperar

Simple English: To regain full health after illness, injury, or surgery.

Example: She hopes to recover quickly after her surgery next week.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Henry knew I could not have had a kinder nurse, and he hoped I would recover. Go to

regret /rɪˈɡrɛt/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arrepender; arrependimento; me arrependo

Simple English: To feel sorrow or longing for something lost or missed.

Example: I regret not studying harder for my exams last year.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Now that wish was coming true, so it would have been foolish to regret it. Go to

resolve /rɪˈzɑːlv/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: resolver; solucionar; determinação

Simple English: To find a way to solve a disagreement or problem.

Example: They worked together to resolve the issues in their project before the deadline.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Only one resolve remained: I would return to my old studies and give myself to a science for which I believed I had natural talent. Go to

respectfully rɪˈspɛktfəl (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: respeitoso

Simple English: Showing politeness and regard.

Example: And as for going as cook, - though I confess there is considerable glory in that, a cook being a sort of officer on ship-board - yet, somehow, I never fancied broiling fowls; - though once broiled, judiciously buttered, and judgmatically salted and peppered, there is no one who will speak more respectfully, not to say reverentially, of a broiled fowl than I will.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I spoke carefully and respectfully, as a young man should to his teacher, and I did not show the excitement I felt inside. Go to

reuss /rɔɪs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Reuss

Simple English: the name of a river in Switzerland

Example: The house stood in a poor street near the Reuss.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My father was very happy and went at once to the house, which stood in a poor street near the Reuss. Go to

Original English Version

1. Overjoyed at this discovery, he hastened to the house, which was situated in a mean street, near the Reuss. Go to

reveal /rɪˈviːl/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: revelar; revelação

Simple English: To make previously hidden information publicly known.

Example: The documentary will reveal new details about the ancient civilization's culture.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He had partly revealed Nature, but her true form was still a wonder and a mystery. Go to

2. I will follow the path already marked, open a new one, explore unknown powers, and reveal the deepest secrets of creation to the world. Go to

reverence rɛvɜrʌns (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: reverência

Simple English: Here, it refers to deep respect.

Example: In that moment, his reverence for her was like religious awe.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He showed my mother a feeling of gratitude and reverence, not the weak love of old age. Go to

Original English Version

1. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Go to

reward (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: recompensa; prêmio; benefício

Simple English: something given for good work or behaviour

Example: The child received a reward for helping.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After so much painful work, reaching the top of my desire was a great reward. Go to

roncesvalles /ˌrɒnsɛsˈvæleɪs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Roncesvales

Simple English: a famous mountain pass where a legendary medieval battle took place

Example: He used heroes from Roncesvalles and King Arthur's Round Table.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre. Go to

Original English Version

1. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels. Go to

rougher /ˈrʌfər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mais acidentado; mais áspero

Simple English: More uneven and harder to walk on.

Example: The ground became rougher and more hilly.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Go to

round (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: rodada; redonda; ronda

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre. Go to

2. “Like one who, on a lonely road, Doth walk in fear and dread, And, having once turned round, walks on, And turns no more his head; Because he knows a frightful fiend Doth close behind him tread.”1 Go to

saddened /ˈsædənd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: entristecido; entristeceu

Simple English: Made someone feel sad.

Example: The news of the loss saddened the whole village.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My father loved Beaufort as a true friend and was deeply saddened by his fall. Go to

satisfied /ˈsætɪsfaɪd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: satisfeito; satisfez; atendidas

Simple English: Content or pleased with a result, outcome, or situation.

Example: After finishing the project, I felt satisfied with my hard work.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. As a child, I was not satisfied with the results promised by modern science teachers. Go to

schoolmates /ˈskuːlmeɪts/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: colegas de escola

Simple English: People who go to the same school as you.

Example: His schoolmates called him by a nickname.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. So I did not care much for most of my schoolmates, but I became very close to one of them. Go to

scold /skoʊld/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: repreender; ralhar com

Simple English: To speak angrily to someone because they have done something wrong.

Example: Do not scold the boy before you hear his side.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I am going to scold you about that myself. Go to

scorn /skɔːrn/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desdém; desprezo

Simple English: A strong feeling that someone or something is worth nothing.

Example: She looked at the cheap copy with scorn.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He listened carefully to my story and smiled at the names of Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus, but without the scorn shown by M. Krempe. Go to

seek /siːk/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: procurar; buscar; busco

Simple English: To attempt to find or obtain a particular object or information.

Example: They will seek help from experts to solve the complicated problem.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I kept seeking one goal, and because of that I improved so fast that after two years I had made some discoveries in improving chemical instruments. Go to

sense /sɛns/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sentido; senso; sensação

Simple English: Natural ability to perceive touch, sight, taste, smell.

Example: My sense of smell helps me enjoy food more.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My father had a strong sense of right and needed to deeply respect someone before he could truly love them. Go to

2. Even in M. Krempe I found much good sense and real knowledge, though his face and manners were unpleasant. Go to

3. But I did not see his pain, because I was unconscious, and I did not come back to my senses for a very long time. Go to

sensitive /ˈsɛnsɪtɪv/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sensível; confidenciais; minúsculas

Simple English: Aware of others' feelings and responsive with care emotionally.

Example: She is sensitive to how her friends feel during difficult times.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My body felt strange and overly sensitive, and my pulse beat fast. Go to

sepulchre ˈsɛpəlkər (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sepulcro

Simple English: a stone tomb or burial chamber

Example: One instant he was astride a broncho and flying through the fairy-colored Painted Desert country; the next instant he was gazing down through shimmering heat into the whited sepulchre of Death Valley, or pulling an oar on a freezing ocean where great ice islands towered and glistened in the sun.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to make us act in plays and masks, using heroes from Roncesvalles, King Arthur’s Round Table, and the knights who fought to free the holy sepulchre. Go to

Original English Version

1. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels. Go to

Glossary: New Words (2/2)

settle (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: resolver; estabelecer; assentar

Simple English: to decide, arrange, or make a home

Example: They settled the argument peacefully.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When my second brother was born, seven years after me, my parents gave up their wandering life and settled in their native country. Go to

shadow /ˈʃædoʊ/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sombra; sombrear

Simple English: Dark shape made when an object blocks light.

Example: The tree cast a long shadow on the ground during the sunset.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They can command thunder, copy an earthquake, and even make fun of the unseen world with its own shadows.” Go to

shelter /ˈʃɛltər/ (10 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abrigo; refúgio

Simple English: A place providing food and housing to very poor people.

Example: The local shelter offers meals and beds for homeless individuals each night.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The porter opened the gate of the courtyard where I had found shelter that night, and I went out into the streets. Go to

sheltered /ˈʃeltərd/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abrigado; protegido; acolheu

Simple English: Protected from wind, rain or danger; also gave protection to someone.

Example: They found a sheltered corner behind the wall and ate their lunch.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Go to

shiver /ˈʃɪvər/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: arrepio; calafrio

Simple English: A sudden shaking of the body from cold or fear.

Example: It sent a cold shiver down his back.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then I thought, with a shiver, that the creature I had left in my room might still be there, alive and moving around. Go to

Original English Version

1. I then reflected, and the thought made me shiver, that the creature whom I had left in my apartment might still be there, alive, and walking about. Go to

shocked /ʃɒkt/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chocado; chocados; choc

Simple English: Very surprised or upset from something unexpected.

Example: I was shocked to hear about the sudden cancellation of the event.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Sometimes I was shocked by how badly I had become. Go to

shone /ʃoʊn/ (22 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: brilhavam; reluziam

Simple English: Gave out or reflected light.

Example: The little stars shone in the sun like diamonds.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Elizabeth’s pure spirit shone in our peaceful home like a lamp in a shrine. Go to

Original English Version

1. The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home. Go to

shroud /ʃraʊd/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: mortalha; sudário

Simple English: A cloth used to wrap a dead body.

Example: The body was wrapped in a plain shroud.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A shroud covered her, and I saw worms in the folds of the cloth. Go to

Original English Version

1. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Go to

shutters /ˈʃʌtərz/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: venezianas; postigos

Simple English: Wooden covers that close over a window.

Example: They closed the shutters against the storm.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then, in the pale yellow moonlight coming through the shutters, I saw the wretch - the miserable monster I had created. Go to

Original English Version

1. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. Go to

sickened /ˈsɪkənd/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: enojou; adoeceu

Simple English: Made someone feel ill or disgusted.

Example: The smell sickened everyone in the room.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. On the third day my mother sickened; her fever was accompanied by the most alarming symptoms, and the looks of her medical attendants prognosticated the worst event. Go to

slaughterhouse /slˈɔtɝhˌaʊs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: matadouro

Simple English: a building where animals are killed for meat

Example: Their sleeves were rolled up above the elbow, like butchers before working in a slaughterhouse.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse gave me many materials. Go to

Original English Version

1. The dissecting room and the slaughterhouse furnished many of my materials; and often did my human nature turn with loathing from my occupation, whilst, still urged on by an eagerness which perpetually increased, I brought my work near to a conclusion. Go to

sleepless /ˈsliːpləs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: em claro; sem dormir

Simple English: Spent without sleeping.

Example: The four travelers passed a sleepless night.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At last a dark, wet morning came and showed my sleepless, aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, with its white tower and clock showing six o'clock. Go to

Original English Version

1. Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. Go to

sly /slaɪ/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: matreiro; malicioso

Simple English: Clever in a secret and not honest way.

Example: He gave a sly look and said nothing.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Professor Krempe often asked me with a sly smile how Cornelius Agrippa was going, while M. Waldman was truly happy about my success. Go to

Original English Version

1. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Go to

sockets /ˈsɑːkɪts/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cavidades; órbitas; encaixes

Simple English: Hollow places into which something fits.

Example: His eyes were deep in their sockets.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But these good features only made the ugly contrast stronger with his watery eyes, which looked almost the same color as the dull white eye sockets, his wrinkled face, and his straight black lips. Go to

Original English Version

1. In a solitary chamber, or rather cell, at the top of the house, and separated from all the other apartments by a gallery and staircase, I kept my workshop of filthy creation: my eyeballs were starting from their sockets in attending to the details of my employment. Go to

2. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Go to

soften /ˈsɔːfən/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: amolecer; suavizar; abrandar

Simple English: To make something less hard, less strong or less severe.

Example: Warm water will soften the dry paint on the brush.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. Go to

sorrows /ˈsɑːroʊz/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tristezas; mágoas; pesares

Simple English: Feelings of deep sadness, or the events that cause them.

Example: She never spoke of her own sorrows to anyone.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Go to

species /ˈspiːʃiːz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: espécie

Simple English: A group capable of producing healthy offspring together.

Example: Lions and tigers are different species that rarely interbreed in the wild.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. A new species would bless me as its creator. Go to

splinters /ˈsplɪntərz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: lascas; estilhaços

Simple English: Small, thin, sharp pieces broken from wood or another hard material.

Example: Wooden splinters scattered across the deck.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. It had not been broken into splinters by a blow, but had been turned into thin strips of wood. Go to

stale /steɪl/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: velho; passado

Simple English: No longer fresh.

Example: The stale bread was hard as wood.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Where have you lived, in what empty place, that no one told you these old fantasies are a thousand years old and as stale as they are ancient? Go to

stare /stɛər/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: olhar; encarar; fitar

Simple English: To look at someone or something without blinking for long.

Example: The child couldn't help but stare at the magician's tricks.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The professor stared at me. Go to

status (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: status; situação; condição

Simple English: the official position or condition of something

Example: Check the status of your application online.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He was proud and stubborn, and he could not bear to live in poverty in the same country where he had once been famous for his status and luxury. Go to

steeple /ˈstiːpəl/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: campanário; torre pontiaguda

Simple English: A tall pointed tower on a church.

Example: You can see the steeple from the far side of the lake.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At last I saw the town’s tall white steeple. Go to

Original English Version

1. At length the high white steeple of the town met my eyes. Go to

2. Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. Go to

stream /striːm/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fluxo; córrego; transmissão

Simple English: To play audio or video content directly from the internet without downloading.

Example: I usually stream my favorite playlists when I exercise to keep me motivated.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then, as I stood at the door, I suddenly saw a stream of fire shoot from an old, beautiful oak tree about twenty yards from our house. Go to

strict /strɪkt/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: estrita; rigoroso; rígidas

Simple English: Absolute rules that must always be obeyed.

Example: The school has strict rules about student behavior during classes.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He was never strict or stubborn. Go to

stronghold /ˈstrɔːŋhoʊld/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: fortaleza; reduto

Simple English: A place built strongly for defence.

Example: The old stronghold stood on the hill.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I had looked at the barriers that seemed to keep humans from entering nature’s stronghold, and I had complained foolishly and without knowledge. Go to

structure /ˈstrʌktʃər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: estrutura; estruturar

Simple English: Anything that is built from various components, like a building or bridge.

Example: The new structure in the park will serve as a community center.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I was not interested in language structure, governments, or politics. Go to

2. One thing that especially caught my attention was the structure of the human body, and of any living animal. Go to

struggle /ˈstrʌɡəl/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: luta; lutar; esforço

Simple English: A great effort to fight back or break free.

Example: He had to struggle against the strong current to swim back to the shore.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My father was not a scientist, so I had to struggle with a child’s ignorance and a student’s strong desire to learn. Go to

2. I mixed a thousand opposite ideas like someone who had not learned the craft, and I struggled in a deep swamp of many kinds of knowledge. Go to

3. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were struggling with a real enemy. Go to

student's /ˈstuːdənts/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: de estudante

Simple English: The possessive form of student, meaning belonging to or characteristic of a learner.

Example: He had a student's mind and a strong desire to learn.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My father was not a scientist, so I had to struggle with a child’s ignorance and a student’s strong desire to learn. Go to

Original English Version

1. My father was not scientific, and I was left to struggle with a child’s blindness, added to a student’s thirst for knowledge. Go to

stump /stʌmp/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: toco; cepo; coto

Simple English: The short part of a tree left in the ground after it is cut down.

Example: We sat on a stump and shared the last of the water.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When the bright light disappeared, the oak was gone, and only a broken stump was left. Go to

Original English Version

1. As I stood at the door, on a sudden I beheld a stream of fire issue from an old and beautiful oak, which stood about twenty yards from our house; and so soon as the dazzling light vanished, the oak had disappeared, and nothing remained but a blasted stump. Go to

sublime /səˈblaɪm/ (8 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sublime

Simple English: extremely beautiful, impressive, or elevated.

Example: I'll only say it was sublime!

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. Go to

surround /səˈraʊnd/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: surround; cercam; rodeiam

Simple English: To be all around something or someone on every side.

Example: The garden is surrounded by a tall stone wall for privacy.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He tried to protect her from all hardship, like a gardener protecting a rare flower from rough weather, and to surround her with things that would please her kind mind. Go to

2. I had always been surrounded by kind companions, always trying to give and share happiness. Go to

sweetest /ˈswiːtɪst/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: o mais encantador; o mais lindo

Simple English: The most pleasant or lovely of all.

Example: It was the sweetest little room in the world.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He was short, but stood very straight, and his voice was the sweetest I had ever heard. Go to

Original English Version

1. His person was short, but remarkably erect; and his voice the sweetest I had ever heard. Go to

sweetness /ˈswiːtnəs/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: doçura; suavidade

Simple English: The quality of tasting like sugar, or of being gentle and kind.

Example: There was a sweetness in her voice that calmed the child.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her forehead was wide and clear, her blue eyes were bright, and her face showed such sweetness and feeling that anyone would think she was a heavenly child. Go to

Original English Version

1. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features. Go to

syndics /ˈsɪndɪks/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: síndicos; magistrados municipais

Simple English: Municipal officers, councillors, or representatives in certain European cities.

Example: Several of his ancestors had served as councillors and syndics.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My ancestors were councillors and syndics for many years, and my father held several public roles with honor. Go to

Original English Version

1. My ancestors had been for many years counsellors and syndics; and my father had filled several public situations with honour and reputation. Go to

tenderness /ˈtendərnəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: ternura; carinho; sensibilidade

Simple English: Gentle and loving feeling; also soreness when a part of the body is touched.

Example: He spoke of his old teacher with real tenderness.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. His daughter cared for him with great tenderness, but she saw in fear that their small money was quickly running out and that they had no other support. Go to

2. Because they understood this and because both were full of tenderness, I was taught patience, kindness, and self-control every day. Go to

Original English Version

1. His daughter attended him with the greatest tenderness; but she saw with despair that their little fund was rapidly decreasing, and that there was no other prospect of support. Go to

2. With this deep consciousness of what they owed towards the being to which they had given life, added to the active spirit of tenderness that animated both, it may be imagined that while during every hour of my infant life I received a lesson of patience, of charity, and of self-control, I was so guided by a silken cord, that all seemed but one train of enjoyment to me. Go to

3. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Go to

term /tɜːrm/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: termo; prazo; mandato

Simple English: Specific period of time expected to last fully.

Example: The school term begins in September and ends in December.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then he gave a quick look at the present state of the science and explained many basic terms. Go to

thinkers /ˈθɪŋkəz/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: pensadores

Simple English: people who examine ideas deeply and carefully

Example: Even the greatest thinkers depend on knowledge gathered by specialists.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I went back through the history of knowledge and traded the discoveries of recent thinkers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Go to

2. But these thinkers, whose hands seem made only for dirt and whose eyes look through the microscope or crucible, have truly done wonders. Go to

thonon /toʊˈnɒn/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Thonon

Simple English: A town in France near Lake Geneva, mentioned as a childhood trip destination.

Example: We went on a pleasure trip to the baths near Thonon.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I was thirteen, we went on a pleasure trip to the baths near Thonon. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I was thirteen years of age, we all went on a party of pleasure to the baths near Thonon: the inclemency of the weather obliged us to remain a day confined to the inn. Go to

thunderstorm /ˈθʌndərstɔːrm/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tempestade com trovões

Simple English: A storm with thunder, lightning and heavy rain.

Example: A thunderstorm broke over the valley.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. When I was about fifteen, we were living in our house near Bellerive when we saw a terrible thunderstorm. Go to

Original English Version

1. When I was about fifteen years old we had retired to our house near Bellerive, when we witnessed a most violent and terrible thunderstorm. Go to

tiredness /ˈtaɪərdnəs/ (6 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: cansaço

Simple English: The feeling of needing rest or sleep.

Example: Tiredness made her close the book early.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After days and nights of extreme work and tiredness, I discovered the cause of life and birth. Go to

tireless /ˈtaɪərləs/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: incansável

Simple English: Working on and on without becoming tired.

Example: She was a tireless helper at the school.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He said these men, by their tireless work, had given modern philosophers most of the foundations of their knowledge. Go to

tiring /ˈtaɪərɪŋ/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: cansativo

Simple English: Making you feel that you need to rest.

Example: Waiting for the Wizard grew tiring.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The trip was long and tiring. Go to

title /ˈtaɪtəl/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: título; denominação

Simple English: Name given to a book, movie, or other work.

Example: The title of the book was intriguing and made me curious to read it.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He only glanced at the title page and said, “Ah! Go to

titlepage /ˈtaɪtəl peɪdʒ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: folha de rosto

Simple English: The page at the front of a book that gives its title and author.

Example: The titlepage named the publisher.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. My father looked carelessly at the titlepage of my book, and said, “Ah! Go to

tormented /ˈtɔːrmɛntɪd/ (7 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: atormentados

Simple English: Suffering great pain of body or mind.

Example: He had the face of a tormented man.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her victory showed itself in a strange calm and happiness after I gave up those old studies that had lately tormented me. Go to

tremble /ˈtrɛmbəl/ (11 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tremer

Simple English: To shake slightly because of fear or cold.

Example: The Lion began to tremble.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Even now I tremble and feel sick when I remember it. Go to

Original English Version

1. My limbs now tremble, and my eyes swim with the remembrance; but then a resistless, and almost frantic, impulse, urged me forward; I seemed to have lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit. Go to

trembled /ˈtrɛmbəld/ (18 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: tremeu

Simple English: Shook slightly because of fear, weakness, cold, or emotion.

Example: His voice trembled as he continued speaking.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I trembled badly. Go to

Original English Version

1. I do not ever remember to have trembled at a tale of superstition, or to have feared the apparition of a spirit. Go to

2. I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. Go to

unchangeable /ʌnˈʧeɪnʤəbəl/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: imutável

Simple English: unable to be altered; always remaining the same

Example: It crushed them with the power of endless space and unchangeable law.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Fate was too powerful, and its unchangeable laws had decided my complete and terrible destruction. Go to

unconscious /ʌnˈkɒnʃəs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: inconsciente; desmaiado; subconsciente

Simple English: Unresponsive and unaware of surroundings, usually from an injury.

Example: He was unconscious after the fall and required immediate medical attention.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But I did not see his pain, because I was unconscious, and I did not come back to my senses for a very long time. Go to

uncontrolled /ˌənkənˈtroʊld/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: descontrolado

Simple English: not restrained, regulated, or kept within limits

Example: The boy's grief was wild and uncontrolled.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. My loud, uncontrolled, and empty laughter frightened and surprised him. Go to

uncover /ʌnˈkʌvər/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: descobrir; destapar

Simple English: To take a cover off, or to find out a secret.

Example: They began to uncover the old floor.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. They had left us the easier task of giving new names and arranging the facts they had helped uncover. Go to

2. I collected bones from charnel-houses and used my hands to uncover the terrible secrets of the human body. Go to

uneasy /ʌnˈiːzi/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: inquieto; pouco à vontade

Simple English: Feeling worried or not comfortable.

Example: The Scarecrow felt a little uneasy.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. “Very well, and very happy, only a little uneasy that they hear from you so seldom. Go to

uneducated /ʌnˈedʒukeɪtɪd/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: sem instrução

Simple English: Having had little or no schooling.

Example: He was poor and uneducated but wise.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. The uneducated peasant knew the natural world and how to use it in practice. Go to

unguarded /ʌnˈɡɑːrdɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: desguarnecido; sem vigilância

Simple English: Having nobody watching or protecting it.

Example: The back door was left unguarded.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I will not lead you on, unguarded and ardent as I then was, to your destruction and infallible misery. Go to

unnatural /ʌnˈnætʃərəl/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: antinatural; artificial; desumano

Simple English: Not normal, or not the way nature usually works.

Example: The room was filled with an unnatural silence.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Without a strong and almost unnatural excitement, this study would have been very hard for me. Go to

Original English Version

1. It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. Go to

unsatisfied /ʌnˈsætɪsˌfaɪd/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: insatisfeito; não atendido

Simple English: not pleased, or not given what you need

Example: His need for companionship remained unsatisfied.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But even with the hard work and great discoveries of modern scientists, I always finished my studies feeling unhappy and unsatisfied. Go to

Original English Version

1. In spite of the intense labour and wonderful discoveries of modern philosophers, I always came from my studies discontented and unsatisfied. Go to

usefulness /ˈjuːsflnəs/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: utilidade

Simple English: The quality of being of use to somebody.

Example: He doubted the usefulness of the old map.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Go to

vaults /vɔːlts/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: abóbadas; criptas; cofres-fortes

Simple English: Arched roofs, or strong underground rooms used to store valuable things.

Example: The bank keeps old documents in its vaults.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Now I had to study how decay begins and grows, and I spent days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. Go to

Original English Version

1. Now I was led to examine the cause and progress of this decay, and forced to spend days and nights in vaults and charnel-houses. Go to

victory /ˈvɪktəri/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: vitória; triunfo

Simple English: Success achieved in war, competition, or other contest.

Example: The victory in the final race brought joy to the entire team.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Her victory showed itself in a strange calm and happiness after I gave up those old studies that had lately tormented me. Go to

violence /ˈvaɪələns/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: violência

Simple English: Intentional harm or intimidation against others.

Example: Violence in movies can desensitize viewers to real-life harm and suffering.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. What great fame would come if I could end disease in the human body and make people safe from death except by violence! Go to

virtues /ˈvɜrtʃuz/ (12 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: virtudes; boas qualidades

Simple English: good qualities in a person's character or behaviour

Example: His virtues and services could not sustain him.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He admired her virtues and wanted to help repay the sorrow she had suffered. Go to

Original English Version

1. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Go to

2. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. Go to

vision (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: visão; vista; plano

Simple English: the ability to see or an idea for the future

Example: The leader explained her vision for the company.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I was being asked to give up wild visions of greatness for ordinary truths of little value. Go to

waldman /ˈwɔːldmən/ (18 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: Waldman

Simple English: the surname of a professor character in the story

Example: Waldman, another professor, would lecture on chemistry.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. He also said that M. Waldman, another professor, would lecture on chemistry on the days when he did not. Go to

2. I could not bear to hear that proud little man speak from a pulpit, but I did remember what he had said about M. Waldman, whom I had never seen because he had been away from town until then. Go to

3. Out of curiosity and boredom, I went to the lecture room, and M. Waldman entered soon after. Go to

4. That same day, I visited M. Waldman. Go to

5. “I am glad,” said M. Waldman, “to have won a student. Go to

6. M. Waldman became a true friend to me. Go to

Original English Version

1. So saying, he stepped aside, and wrote down a list of several books treating of natural philosophy, which he desired me to procure; and dismissed me, after mentioning that in the beginning of the following week he intended to commence a course of lectures upon natural philosophy in its general relations, and that M. Waldman, a fellow-professor, would lecture upon chemistry the alternate days that he omitted. Go to

2. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town. Go to

3. Partly from curiosity, and partly from idleness, I went into the lecturing room, which M. Waldman entered shortly after. Go to

4. On the same day, I paid M. Waldman a visit. Go to

5. “I am happy,” said M. Waldman, “to have gained a disciple; and if your application equals your ability, I have no doubt of your success. Go to

6. In M. Waldman I found a true friend. Go to

warmed /wɔːrmd/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aqueceu

Simple English: Made someone or something less cold.

Example: The fire warmed her and made her feel less lonely.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. Go to

warmly /ˈwɔːrmli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: calorosamente; com cordialidade

Simple English: In a friendly, kind way.

Example: Come along, said the Scarecrow warmly.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I welcomed him warmly, and we walked toward my college. Go to

watery /ˈwɔːtəri/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: aguado; lacrimejante; ralo

Simple English: Containing too much water, or full of tears.

Example: The soup was thin and watery.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But these good features only made the ugly contrast stronger with his watery eyes, which looked almost the same color as the dull white eye sockets, his wrinkled face, and his straight black lips. Go to

Original English Version

1. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Go to

weakens /ˈwikənz/ (1 occurrence in the simplified text)

Português: enfraquece; debilita

Simple English: makes something less strong or less certain

Example: I'll tell you what weakens your judgment.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. If the study you follow weakens your love for others and destroys your enjoyment of simple pleasures, then that study is truly wrong for the human mind. Go to

weakness /ˈwiːknəs/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: fraqueza; debilidade; ponto fraco

Simple English: Lack of ability, power, or effectiveness; flaw present.

Example: Understanding your weakness can help you improve in your personal and professional life.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. At other times I nearly fell to the ground from weakness and exhaustion. Go to

wealth (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: riqueza; fortuna; bens

Simple English: a large amount of money or valuable things

Example: The family gained wealth through trade.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. After many bad events, Beaufort lost his wealth and became poor. Go to

weeping /ˈwiːpɪŋ/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: chorando

Simple English: Crying, with tears.

Example: She sat weeping by the fire.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. This last blow overcame her; and she knelt by Beaufort’s coffin, weeping bitterly, when my father entered the chamber. Go to

wildest /ˈwaɪldɪst/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: o mais desvairado; o mais extravagante

Simple English: The most uncontrolled, or the most far from what is likely.

Example: Beyond my wildest hopes, the plan worked.

Use in this Book:

Original English Version

1. But it was in vain: I slept, indeed, but I was disturbed by the wildest dreams. Go to

willing /ˈwɪlɪŋ/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: disposto; desejando; querendo

Simple English: Ready and enthusiastic to do something or agree.

Example: She is willing to help us with the project this weekend.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Still, I did not feel any more willing to study them again. Go to

wise /waɪz/ (3 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: sábio; sensato; prudente

Simple English: Having deep knowledge and experience; capable of giving good advice.

Example: My grandfather is wise; he gives the best advice based on his experience.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I did not expect, in this wise and scientific age, to meet a follower of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Go to

2. I had wanted it with a passion greater than was wise. Go to

wisest /ˈwaɪzɪst/ (2 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: o mais sábio

Simple English: The most wise of all.

Example: You will be the wisest man in all the Land of Oz.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. What the wisest men had searched for since the beginning of the world was now in my hands. Go to

Original English Version

1. What had been the study and desire of the wisest men since the creation of the world was now within my grasp. Go to

wretch /retʃ/ (36 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: infeliz; desgraçado; miserável

Simple English: A person you pity, or one you despise.

Example: The poor wretch had not eaten for two days.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. Then, in the pale yellow moonlight coming through the shutters, I saw the wretch - the miserable monster I had created. Go to

2. A mummy given life again could not be more horrible than that wretch. Go to

3. I walked quickly, as if I wanted to escape the wretch whom I feared I would see around every corner. Go to

Original English Version

1. How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form? Go to

2. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. Go to

3. A mummy again endued with animation could not be so hideous as that wretch. Go to

4. The porter opened the gates of the court, which had that night been my asylum, and I issued into the streets, pacing them with quick steps, as if I sought to avoid the wretch whom I feared every turning of the street would present to my view. Go to

wrinkled /ˈrɪŋkəld/ (5 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: enrugado

Simple English: Covered with small lines and folds.

Example: Behind the screen stood a little man with a wrinkled face.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. But these good features only made the ugly contrast stronger with his watery eyes, which looked almost the same color as the dull white eye sockets, his wrinkled face, and his straight black lips. Go to

Original English Version

1. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. Go to

wrongly /ˈrɔːŋli/ (4 occurrences in the simplified text)

Português: erradamente; fora de propósito

Simple English: In a way that is not correct.

Example: The parcel was wrongly sent to another town.

Use in this Book:

Simplified (B1) English Version

1. I hid in the courtyard of the house where I lived and spent the rest of the night walking back and forth in great fear, listening closely and fearing every sound, as if it might warn me that the evil corpse I had wrongly given life was coming. Go to

Original Text: Rare Words (1/3)

Compact help for additional rare words found only in the original text. Each entry gives the spelling, pronunciation, common Portuguese meanings and one exact return to the source paragraph.

abode /əˈboʊd/ — morada; habitação. Beaufort had taken effectual measures to conceal himself; and it was ten months before my father discovered his abode. Return to Original English Version

abortive /əˈbɔːrtɪv/ — malogrado; frustrado. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. Return to Original English Version

abstruse /əbˈstruːs/ — abstruso; obscuro. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. Return to Original English Version

accorded /əˈkɔːrdɪd/ — concedeu; condizia com. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Return to Original English Version

acquirement /əˈkwaɪərmənt/ — aquisição; saber adquirido. Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow. Return to Original English Version

acuteness /əˈkjuːtnəs/ — agudeza; apuro (dos sentidos). It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. Return to Original English Version

adored /əˈdɔːrd/ — adorava; adorou. They consulted their village priest, and the result was, that Elizabeth Lavenza became the inmate of my parents’ house - my more than sister - the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures. Return to Original English Version

adventurous /ədˈventʃərəs/ — aventureiro; audacioso. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. Return to Original English Version

adversity /ədˈvɜːrsɪti/ — adversidade; infortúnio. But Caroline Beaufort possessed a mind of an uncommon mould; and her courage rose to support her in her adversity. Return to Original English Version

affability /ˌæfəˈbɪləti/ — afabilidade. His manners in private were even more mild and attractive than in public; for there was a certain dignity in his mien during his lecture, which in his own house was replaced by the greatest affability and kindness. Return to Original English Version

affectation /ˌæfekˈteɪʃən/ — afetação; fingimento. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

affections /əˈfekʃənz/ — afetos; sentimentos amorosos. If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections, and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind. Return to Original English Version

affirm /əˈfɜːrm/ — afirmar; asseverar. The sun does not more certainly shine in the heavens, than that which I now affirm is true. Return to Original English Version

afflicted /əˈflɪktɪd/ — afligido; acometido. This, to my mother, was more than a duty; it was a necessity, a passion - remembering what she had suffered, and how she had been relieved - for her to act in her turn the guardian angel to the afflicted. Return to Original English Version

afforded /əˈfɔːrdɪd/ — proporcionou; permitiu-se; teve meios para. Her presence had seemed a blessing to them; but it would be unfair to her to keep her in poverty and want, when Providence afforded her such powerful protection. Return to Original English Version

agitated /ˈædʒɪteɪtɪd/ — agitado; perturbado. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

agitation /ˌædʒɪˈteɪʃən/ — agitação; inquietação. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life. Return to Original English Version

alarmed /əˈlɑːrmd/ — alarmado; assustado; apreensivo. Sometimes I grew alarmed at the wreck I perceived that I had become; the energy of my purpose alone sustained me: my labours would soon end, and I believed that exercise and amusement would then drive away incipient disease; and I promised myself both of these when my creation should be complete. Return to Original English Version

alighted /əˈlaɪtɪd/ — apeou; desceu; pousou. I alighted, and was conducted to my solitary apartment, to spend the evening as I pleased. Return to Original English Version

alighting /əˈlaɪtɪŋ/ — apeando; descendo do cavalo. “My dear Frankenstein,” exclaimed he, “how glad I am to see you! how fortunate that you should be here at the very moment of my alighting!” Return to Original English Version

allude /əˈluːd/ — aludir; fazer alusão a. I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. Return to Original English Version

amiable /ˈeɪmiəbəl/ — amável; afável. I, who had ever been surrounded by amiable companions, continually engaged in endeavouring to bestow mutual pleasure, I was now alone. Return to Original English Version

analysing /ˈænəlaɪzɪŋ/ — analisando. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Return to Original English Version

anatomise /əˈnætəmaɪz/ — anatomizar; dissecar. He might dissect, anatomise, and give names; but, not to speak of a final cause, causes in their secondary and tertiary grades were utterly unknown to him. Return to Original English Version

anew /əˈnuː/ — de novo; novamente. My dear sir, you must begin your studies entirely anew.” Return to Original English Version

animate /ˈænɪmeɪt/ — animar; vivificar; animado. Her sympathy was ours; her smile, her soft voice, the sweet glance of her celestial eyes, were ever there to bless and animate us. Return to Original English Version

annihilation /əˌnaɪəˈleɪʃən/ — aniquilamento; extermínio. The ambition of the enquirer seemed to limit itself to the annihilation of those visions on which my interest in science was chiefly founded. Return to Original English Version

apathy /ˈæpəθi/ — apatia. I opened it with apathy; the theory which he attempts to demonstrate, and the wonderful facts which he relates, soon changed this feeling into enthusiasm. Return to Original English Version

apparition /ˌæpəˈrɪʃən/ — aparição; espectro. The apparition was soon explained. Return to Original English Version

appertaining /ˌæpərˈteɪnɪŋ/ — pertencente a; relativo a. In this mood of mind I betook myself to the mathematics, and the branches of study appertaining to that science, as being built upon secure foundations, and so worthy of my consideration. Return to Original English Version

apprehension /ˌæprɪˈhenʃən/ — apreensão; receio. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. Return to Original English Version

apprehensions /ˌæprɪˈhenʃənz/ — receios; temores. Those of his successors in each branch of natural philosophy with whom I was acquainted, appeared even to my boy’s apprehensions, as tyros engaged in the same pursuit. Return to Original English Version

ardent /ˈɑːrdənt/ — ardente; apaixonado; intenso. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

ardently /ˈɑːrdəntli/ — ardentemente. I ardently desired the acquisition of knowledge. Return to Original English Version

ardour /ˈɑːrdər/ — ardor; fervor. Elizabeth was of a calmer and more concentrated disposition; but, with all my ardour, I was capable of a more intense application, and was more deeply smitten with the thirst for knowledge. Return to Original English Version

arduous /ˈɑːrdʒuəs/ — árduo; penoso. The materials at present within my command hardly appeared adequate to so arduous an undertaking; but I doubted not that I should ultimately succeed. Return to Original English Version

ascend /əˈsɛnd/ — subir; ascender. They ascend into the heavens: they have discovered how the blood circulates, and the nature of the air we breathe. Return to Original English Version

ascended /əˈsendɪd/ — subiu; ascendeu. We ascended into my room, and the servant presently brought breakfast; but I was unable to contain myself. Return to Original English Version

ascribed /əˈskraɪbd/ — atribuído. I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. Return to Original English Version

aspires /əˈspaɪərz/ — aspira; almeja. Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow. Return to Original English Version

astonished /əˈstɑːnɪʃt/ — espantado; surpreso. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him. Return to Original English Version

astonishment /əˈstɑːnɪʃmənt/ — espanto; assombro. My ardour was indeed the astonishment of the students, and my proficiency that of the masters. Return to Original English Version

attainment /əˈteɪnmənt/ — obtenção; realização. A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. Return to Original English Version

attendants /əˈtendənts/ — assistentes; acompanhantes. On the third day my mother sickened; her fever was accompanied by the most alarming symptoms, and the looks of her medical attendants prognosticated the worst event. Return to Original English Version

attentions /əˈtɛnʃənz/ — atenções; gentilezas; corte. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

attentive /əˈtɛntɪv/ — atento; cuidadoso. He knew that I could not have a more kind and attentive nurse than himself; and, firm in the hope he felt of my recovery, he did not doubt that, instead of doing harm, he performed the kindest action that he could towards them. Return to Original English Version

attentively /əˈtentɪvli/ — atentamente; com atenção. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life. Return to Original English Version

aught /ɔːt/ — algo; qualquer coisa (arcaico). And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Return to Original English Version

averred /əˈvɜːrd/ — asseverou; declarou com firmeza. I took their word for all that they averred, and I became their disciple. Return to Original English Version

avert /əˈvɜːrt/ — evitar; afastar. When I look back, it seems to me as if this almost miraculous change of inclination and will was the immediate suggestion of the guardian angel of my life - the last effort made by the spirit of preservation to avert the storm that was even then hanging in the stars, and ready to envelope me. Return to Original English Version

avidity /əˈvɪdəti/ — avidez. But the cursory glance my father had taken of my volume by no means assured me that he was acquainted with its contents; and I continued to read with the greatest avidity. Return to Original English Version

avowed /əˈvaʊd/ — declarado; confesso. Sir Isaac Newton is said to have avowed that he felt like a child picking up shells beside the great and unexplored ocean of truth. Return to Original English Version

awoke /əˈwoʊk/ — acordou; despertou. I awoke, and my yesternight’s thoughts were as a dream. Return to Original English Version

babes /beɪbz/ — bebês; criancinhas. She found a peasant and his wife, hard working, bent down by care and labour, distributing a scanty meal to five hungry babes. Return to Original English Version

baffled /ˈbæfəld/ — confundiu; deixou perplexo; frustrou. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Return to Original English Version

banish /ˈbænɪʃ/ — banir; desterrar. Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend the discovery, if I could banish disease from the human frame, and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death! Return to Original English Version

banished /ˈbænɪʃt/ — baniu; banido; desterrado. The time at length arrives, when grief is rather an indulgence than a necessity; and the smile that plays upon the lips, although it may be deemed a sacrilege, is not banished. Return to Original English Version

bedchamber /ˈbedtʃeɪmbər/ — aposento de dormir. Unable to endure the aspect of the being I had created, I rushed out of the room, and continued a long time traversing my bedchamber, unable to compose my mind to sleep. Return to Original English Version

befallen /bɪˈfɔːlən/ — sucedido; acontecido. I could hardly believe that so great a good fortune could have befallen me; but when I became assured that my enemy had indeed fled, I clapped my hands for joy, and ran down to Clerval. Return to Original English Version

befitting /bɪˈfɪtɪŋ/ — condizente; apropriado a. But these are not thoughts befitting me; I will endeavour to resign myself cheerfully to death, and will indulge a hope of meeting you in another world.” Return to Original English Version

beheld /bɪˈhɛld/ — viu; contemplou. The untaught peasant beheld the elements around him, and was acquainted with their practical uses. Return to Original English Version

benefactors /ˈbɛnəˌfæktərz/ — benfeitores. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. Return to Original English Version

beneficence /bɪˈnɛfɪsəns/ — beneficência; bondade. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Return to Original English Version

benevolence /bəˈnevələns/ — benevolência; bondade. He appeared about fifty years of age, but with an aspect expressive of the greatest benevolence; a few grey hairs covered his temples, but those at the back of his head were nearly black. Return to Original English Version

benevolent /bɪˈnɛvələnt/ — benevolente; bondoso. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Return to Original English Version

benignity /bɪˈnɪɡnəti/ — benignidade; brandura. On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. Return to Original English Version

bestow /bɪˈstoʊ/ — conceder; outorgar; dar. Much as they were attached to each other, they seemed to draw inexhaustible stores of affection from a very mine of love to bestow them upon me. Return to Original English Version

bestowed /bɪˈstoʊd/ — concedeu; outorgou. I was their plaything and their idol, and something better - their child, the innocent and helpless creature bestowed on them by Heaven, whom to bring up to good, and whose future lot it was in their hands to direct to happiness or misery, according as they fulfilled their duties towards me. Return to Original English Version

bestowing /bɪˈstoʊɪŋ/ — concedendo; outorgando. After days and nights of incredible labour and fatigue, I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life; nay, more, I became myself capable of bestowing animation upon lifeless matter. Return to Original English Version

betook /bɪˈtʊk/ — dirigiu-se; pôs-se a. In this mood of mind I betook myself to the mathematics, and the branches of study appertaining to that science, as being built upon secure foundations, and so worthy of my consideration. Return to Original English Version

blasted /ˈblæstɪd/ — maldito; dos diabos. As I stood at the door, on a sudden I beheld a stream of fire issue from an old and beautiful oak, which stood about twenty yards from our house; and so soon as the dazzling light vanished, the oak had disappeared, and nothing remained but a blasted stump. Return to Original English Version

blindness /ˈblaɪndnəs/ — cegueira. My father was not scientific, and I was left to struggle with a child’s blindness, added to a student’s thirst for knowledge. Return to Original English Version

blooming /ˈbluːmɪŋ/ — florescente; viçoso; em flor. I saw how the fine form of man was degraded and wasted; I beheld the corruption of death succeed to the blooming cheek of life; I saw how the worm inherited the wonders of the eye and brain. Return to Original English Version

bounding /ˈbaʊndɪŋ/ — saltando; pulando; correndo aos saltos. A new light seemed to dawn upon my mind; and, bounding with joy, I communicated my discovery to my father. Return to Original English Version

boundless /ˈbaʊndləs/ — ilimitado; sem fim. I was required to exchange chimeras of boundless grandeur for realities of little worth. Return to Original English Version

brambles /ˈbræmbəlz/ — sarças; silvados. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles. Return to Original English Version

breathless /ˈbrɛθləs/ — sem fôlego; suspensos. One secret which I alone possessed was the hope to which I had dedicated myself; and the moon gazed on my midnight labours, while, with unrelaxed and breathless eagerness, I pursued nature to her hiding-places. Return to Original English Version

burdened /ˈbɜːrdənd/ — sobrecarregado. You have burdened your memory with exploded systems and useless names. Return to Original English Version

campagne /kæmˈpeɪn/ — casa de campo. We possessed a house in Geneva, and a campagne on Bellerive, the eastern shore of the lake, at the distance of rather more than a league from the city. Return to Original English Version

caprice /kəˈpriːs/ — capricho; veneta. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. Return to Original English Version

caprices /kəˈpriːsɪz/ — caprichos; veleidades. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. Return to Original English Version

caresses /kəˈresɪz/ — carícias. My mother’s tender caresses, and my father’s smile of benevolent pleasure while regarding me, are my first recollections. Return to Original English Version

causation /kɔːˈzeɪʃən/ — causalidade; causação. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Return to Original English Version

ceasing /ˈsiːsɪŋ/ — cessando; parando. It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. Return to Original English Version

chaise /ʃeɪz/ — carruagem leve; charrete. I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections. Return to Original English Version

chamois /ˈʃæmi/ — camurça. When my father returned from Milan, he found playing with me in the hall of our villa, a child fairer than pictured cherub - a creature who seemed to shed radiance from her looks, and whose form and motions were lighter than the chamois of the hills. Return to Original English Version

chanced /tʃænst/ — aconteceu por acaso; calhou de. In this house I chanced to find a volume of the works of Cornelius Agrippa. Return to Original English Version

cherub /ˈtʃerəb/ — querubim. When my father returned from Milan, he found playing with me in the hall of our villa, a child fairer than pictured cherub - a creature who seemed to shed radiance from her looks, and whose form and motions were lighter than the chamois of the hills. Return to Original English Version

chiefly /ˈtʃiːfli/ — principalmente; sobretudo. The ambition of the enquirer seemed to limit itself to the annihilation of those visions on which my interest in science was chiefly founded. Return to Original English Version

chimera /kaɪˈmɪərə/ — quimera; ilusão impossível. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted, and that the elixir of life is a chimera. Return to Original English Version

chimeras /kaɪˈmɪərəz/ — quimeras; ilusões impossíveis. I was required to exchange chimeras of boundless grandeur for realities of little worth. Return to Original English Version

chimerical /kaɪˈmerɪkəl/ — quimérico. If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. Return to Original English Version

chivalrous /ˈʃɪvəlrəs/ — cavalheiresco; cortês; galante. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels. Return to Original English Version

circulates /ˈsɜːrkjəleɪts/ — circula; passa de mão em mão. They ascend into the heavens: they have discovered how the blood circulates, and the nature of the air we breathe. Return to Original English Version

citadel /ˈsɪtədəl/ — cidadela; fortaleza. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

classifications /ˌklæsɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz/ — classificações. They had left to us, as an easier task, to give new names, and arrange in connected classifications, the facts which they in a great degree had been the instruments of bringing to light. Return to Original English Version

clothed /kloʊðd/ — vestido; coberto. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

cloudless /ˈklaʊdləs/ — sem nuvens; límpido. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features. Return to Original English Version

comforter /ˈkʌmfərtər/ — consolador; cachecol; edredom. She indeed veiled her grief, and strove to act the comforter to us all. Return to Original English Version

comfortless /ˈkʌmfərtləs/ — sem conforto; desolado. I did not dare return to the apartment which I inhabited, but felt impelled to hurry on, although drenched by the rain which poured from a black and comfortless sky. Return to Original English Version

commencement /kəˈmensmənt/ — início; começo. This was the commencement of a nervous fever, which confined me for several months. Return to Original English Version

commences /kəˈmensɪz/ — começa. These are the reflections of the first days; but when the lapse of time proves the reality of the evil, then the actual bitterness of grief commences. Return to Original English Version

complexion /kəmˈplekʃən/ — tez; compleição; aspecto. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

complied /kəmˈplaɪd/ — obedeceu; acatou; cumpriu. Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have been folly to repent. Return to Original English Version

compose /kəmˈpoʊz/ — compor; acalmar. Unable to endure the aspect of the being I had created, I rushed out of the room, and continued a long time traversing my bedchamber, unable to compose my mind to sleep. Return to Original English Version

concealing /kənˈsiːlɪŋ/ — escondendo; ocultando. I afterwards learned that, knowing my father’s advanced age, and unfitness for so long a journey, and how wretched my sickness would make Elizabeth, he spared them this grief by concealing the extent of my disorder. Return to Original English Version

conceited /kənˈsiːtɪd/ — convencido; vaidoso. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town. Return to Original English Version

conceive /kənˈsiːv/ — conceber; imaginar. None but those who have experienced them can conceive of the enticements of science. Return to Original English Version

conceiving /kənˈsiːvɪŋ/ — concebendo; imaginando. I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. Return to Original English Version

conducive /kənˈduːsɪv/ — propício a; que favorece. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay. Return to Original English Version

confinement /kənˈfaɪnmənt/ — confinamento; parto. My cheek had grown pale with study, and my person had become emaciated with confinement. Return to Original English Version

confiscated /ˈkɑːnfɪskeɪtɪd/ — confiscado. His property was confiscated, his child became an orphan and a beggar. Return to Original English Version

consoled /kənˈsoʊld/ — consolou; confortou. I was unwilling to quit the sight of those that remained to me; and, above all, I desired to see my sweet Elizabeth in some degree consoled. Return to Original English Version

consummation /ˌkɑːnsəˈmeɪʃən/ — consumação; realização plena. After so much time spent in painful labour, to arrive at once at the summit of my desires, was the most gratifying consummation of my toils. Return to Original English Version

contemplated /ˈkɑːntəmpleɪtɪd/ — contemplou; cogitou. While my companion contemplated with a serious and satisfied spirit the magnificent appearances of things, I delighted in investigating their causes. Return to Original English Version

contented /kənˈtɛntɪd/ — satisfeito; contentou-se. If, instead of this remark, my father had taken the pains to explain to me, that the principles of Agrippa had been entirely exploded, and that a modern system of science had been introduced, which possessed much greater powers than the ancient, because the powers of the latter were chimerical, while those of the former were real and practical; under such circumstances, I should certainly have thrown Agrippa aside, and have contented my imagination, warmed as it was, by returning with greater ardour to my former studies. Return to Original English Version

continual /kənˈtɪnjuəl/ — contínuo; frequente. In other studies you go as far as others have gone before you, and there is nothing more to know; but in a scientific pursuit there is continual food for discovery and wonder. Return to Original English Version

contradictory /ˌkɒntrəˈdɪktəri/ — contraditório. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

contrived /kənˈtraɪvd/ — deu um jeito de; forjado; artificioso. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life. Return to Original English Version

convulsed /kənˈvʌlst/ — convulsionado; contorcido. I started from my sleep with horror; a cold dew covered my forehead, my teeth chattered, and every limb became convulsed: when, by the dim and yellow light of the moon, as it forced its way through the window shutters, I beheld the wretch - the miserable monster whom I had created. Return to Original English Version

convulsive /kənˈvʌlsɪv/ — convulsivo; espasmódico. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

cooped /kuːpt/ — encurralado; enfurnado. I had often, when at home, thought it hard to remain during my youth cooped up in one place, and had longed to enter the world, and take my station among other human beings. Return to Original English Version

cordial /ˈkɔːrdʒəl/ — cordial; afável; licor doce. I welcomed my friend, therefore, in the most cordial manner, and we walked towards my college. Return to Original English Version

cot /kɑːt/ — catre; cama estreita. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

counsellors /ˈkaʊnsələrz/ — conselheiros. My ancestors had been for many years counsellors and syndics; and my father had filled several public situations with honour and reputation. Return to Original English Version

countenance /ˈkaʊntənəns/ — semblante; rosto; compostura. She died calmly; and her countenance expressed affection even in death. Return to Original English Version

countenances /ˈkaʊntənənsɪz/ — semblantes; fisionomias. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. Return to Original English Version

cowardice /ˈkaʊərdɪs/ — covardia. It was a bold question, and one which has ever been considered as a mystery; yet with how many things are we upon the brink of becoming acquainted, if cowardice or carelessness did not restrain our enquiries. Return to Original English Version

cursory /ˈkɜːrsəri/ — apressado; superficial. But the cursory glance my father had taken of my volume by no means assured me that he was acquainted with its contents; and I continued to read with the greatest avidity. Return to Original English Version

dabble /ˈdæbəl/ — mexer superficialmente. But these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. Return to Original English Version

dabbled /ˈdæbəld/ — chapinhou; brincou de fazer. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? Return to Original English Version

damps /dæmps/ — umidades; vapores do subsolo. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? Return to Original English Version

darted /ˈdɑːrtɪd/ — disparou; arremessou-se; lançou um olhar. Entreating him, therefore, to remain a few minutes at the bottom of the stairs, I darted up towards my own room. Return to Original English Version

dawned /dɔːnd/ — amanheceu; tornou-se claro. Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. Return to Original English Version

dazzling /ˈdæzlɪŋ/ — deslumbrante; ofuscante. As I stood at the door, on a sudden I beheld a stream of fire issue from an old and beautiful oak, which stood about twenty yards from our house; and so soon as the dazzling light vanished, the oak had disappeared, and nothing remained but a blasted stump. Return to Original English Version

debarred /dɪˈbɑːrd/ — impedido; proibido. Henry deeply felt the misfortune of being debarred from a liberal education. Return to Original English Version

decreed /dɪˈkriːd/ — decretou; determinado por decreto. Destiny was too potent, and her immutable laws had decreed my utter and terrible destruction. Return to Original English Version

deference /ˈdefərəns/ — deferência. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

degraded /dɪˈɡreɪdɪd/ — degradado. I saw how the fine form of man was degraded and wasted; I beheld the corruption of death succeed to the blooming cheek of life; I saw how the worm inherited the wonders of the eye and brain. Return to Original English Version

delicacy /ˈdelɪkəsi/ — delicadeza. My attention was fixed upon every object the most insupportable to the delicacy of the human feelings. Return to Original English Version

delights /dɪˈlaɪts/ — delícias; prazeres. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. Return to Original English Version

delineate /dɪˈlɪnieɪt/ — delinear. How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavoured to form? Return to Original English Version

demoniacal /ˌdiːməˈnaɪəkəl/ — demoníaco. I took refuge in the courtyard belonging to the house which I inhabited; where I remained during the rest of the night, walking up and down in the greatest agitation, listening attentively, catching and fearing each sound as if it were to announce the approach of the demoniacal corpse to which I had so miserably given life. Return to Original English Version

deplored /dɪˈplɔːrd/ — deplorou; lamentado. He bitterly deplored the false pride which led his friend to a conduct so little worthy of the affection that united them. Return to Original English Version

derange /dɪˈreɪndʒ/ — desarranjar; perturbar. He then took me into his laboratory, and explained to me the uses of his various machines; instructing me as to what I ought to procure, and promising me the use of his own when I should have advanced far enough in the science not to derange their mechanism. Return to Original English Version

despicable /dɪˈspɪkəbəl/ — desprezível. All that had so long engaged my attention suddenly grew despicable. Return to Original English Version

detain /dɪˈteɪn/ — deter; reter; prender. He might have spoken, but I did not hear; one hand was stretched out, seemingly to detain me, but I escaped, and rushed downstairs. Return to Original English Version

diligences /ˈdɪlɪdʒənsɪz/ — diligências. Continuing thus, I came at length opposite to the inn at which the various diligences and carriages usually stopped. Return to Original English Version

discerned /dɪˈsɜːrnd/ — discerniu; distinguido. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love. Return to Original English Version

disciple /dɪˈsaɪpəl/ — discípulo. I took their word for all that they averred, and I became their disciple. Return to Original English Version

disconsolate /dɪsˈkɑːnsələt/ — desconsolado; inconsolável. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

discontented /ˌdɪskənˈtentɪd/ — descontente. In spite of the intense labour and wonderful discoveries of modern philosophers, I always came from my studies discontented and unsatisfied. Return to Original English Version

disdain /dɪsˈdeɪn/ — desdém; desprezo. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. Return to Original English Version

disinclined /ˌdɪsɪnˈklaɪnd/ — pouco disposto. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Return to Original English Version

dismal /ˈdɪzməl/ — sombrio; desolador. Morning, dismal and wet, at length dawned, and discovered to my sleepless and aching eyes the church of Ingolstadt, its white steeple and clock, which indicated the sixth hour. Return to Original English Version

dismally /ˈdɪzməli/ — tristemente; lugubremente. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

disposition /ˌdɪspəˈzɪʃən/ — temperamento; índole. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Return to Original English Version

disquieted /dɪsˈkwaɪətɪd/ — inquietou; perturbou. I knew my silence disquieted them; and I well remembered the words of my father: “I know that while you are pleased with yourself, you will think of us with affection, and we shall hear regularly from you. Return to Original English Version

dissect /daɪˈsɛkt/ — dissecar; analisar minuciosamente. He might dissect, anatomise, and give names; but, not to speak of a final cause, causes in their secondary and tertiary grades were utterly unknown to him. Return to Original English Version

distemper /dɪsˈtɛmpər/ — doença; enfermidade. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

disunion /dɪsˈjuːnjən/ — desunião; separação. I need not say that we were strangers to any species of disunion or dispute. Return to Original English Version

dogmatism /ˈdɒɡmətɪzəm/ — dogmatismo. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. Return to Original English Version

doting /ˈdoʊtɪŋ/ — extremamente carinhoso; excessivamente dedicado. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Return to Original English Version

dreary /ˈdrɪəri/ — sombrio; monótono; deprimente. It was on a dreary night of November, that I beheld the accomplishment of my toils. Return to Original English Version

drenched /drɛntʃt/ — encharcou; encharcado. I did not dare return to the apartment which I inhabited, but felt impelled to hurry on, although drenched by the rain which poured from a black and comfortless sky. Return to Original English Version

dun /dʌn/ — o baio; cavalo pardo. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

dungeons /ˈdʌndʒənz/ — masmorras. Whether he had died, or still lingered in the dungeons of Austria, was not known. Return to Original English Version

effectual /ɪˈfektʃuəl/ — eficaz; que produz efeito. Beaufort had taken effectual measures to conceal himself; and it was ten months before my father discovered his abode. Return to Original English Version

elapsed /ɪˈlæpst/ — transcorreu. During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame. Return to Original English Version

emaciated /ɪˈmeɪʃieɪtɪd/ — emaciado; esquálido. My cheek had grown pale with study, and my person had become emaciated with confinement. Return to Original English Version

employments /ɪmˈplɔɪmənts/ — ocupações; empregos. “You have guessed right; I have lately been so deeply engaged in one occupation, that I have not allowed myself sufficient rest, as you see: but I hope, I sincerely hope, that all these employments are now at an end, and that I am at length free.” Return to Original English Version

enchanting /ɪnˈtʃɑːntɪŋ/ — encantador; fascinante. Never was she so enchanting as at this time, when she recalled the sunshine of her smiles and spent them upon us. Return to Original English Version

enchantment /ɪnˈtʃæntmənt/ — encantamento; feitiço; enlevo. He composed heroic songs, and began to write many a tale of enchantment and knightly adventure. Return to Original English Version

endeavour /ɪnˈdevər/ — esforçar-se; empenho. But these are not thoughts befitting me; I will endeavour to resign myself cheerfully to death, and will indulge a hope of meeting you in another world.” Return to Original English Version

endeavoured /ɪnˈdevərd/ — esforçou-se; procurou. He had endeavoured to persuade his father to permit him to accompany me, and to become my fellow student; but in vain. Return to Original English Version

endeavouring /ɪnˈdevərɪŋ/ — esforçando-se; procurando. He lost no time in endeavouring to seek him out, with the hope of persuading him to begin the world again through his credit and assistance. Return to Original English Version

endeavours /ɪnˈdevərz/ — esforços; tentativas. She forgot even her own regret in her endeavours to make us forget. Return to Original English Version

endued /ɪnˈdjuːd/ — dotado; investido. One of the phenomena which had peculiarly attracted my attention was the structure of the human frame, and, indeed, any animal endued with life. Return to Original English Version

engrossed /ɪnˈɡroʊst/ — absorto; embevecido. Winter, spring, and summer passed away during my labours; but I did not watch the blossom or the expanding leaves - sights which before always yielded me supreme delight - so deeply was I engrossed in my occupation. Return to Original English Version

enlightened /ɪnˈlaɪtənd/ — iluminado; esclarecido. I little expected, in this enlightened and scientific age, to find a disciple of Albertus Magnus and Paracelsus. Return to Original English Version

enounced /ɪˈnaʊnst/ — enunciou; declarou. Such were the professor’s words - rather let me say such the words of fate, enounced to destroy me. Return to Original English Version

enquirer /ɪnˈkwaɪərər/ — indagador; investigador. The ambition of the enquirer seemed to limit itself to the annihilation of those visions on which my interest in science was chiefly founded. Return to Original English Version

enquirers /ɪnˈkwaɪərərz/ — indagadores; investigadores. With a confusion of ideas only to be accounted for by my extreme youth, and my want of a guide on such matters, I had retrod the steps of knowledge along the paths of time, and exchanged the discoveries of recent enquirers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Return to Original English Version

enquiries /ɪnˈkwaɪəriz/ — perguntas; investigações. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things, or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my enquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or, in its highest sense, the physical secrets of the world. Return to Original English Version

enquiring /ɪnˈkwaɪərɪŋ/ — indagando (grafia britânica). My father made no reproach in his letters, and only took notice of my silence by enquiring into my occupations more particularly than before. Return to Original English Version

enticements /ɪnˈtaɪsmənts/ — tentações; atrativos. None but those who have experienced them can conceive of the enticements of science. Return to Original English Version

entreaties /ɪnˈtriːtiz/ — súplicas; rogos. She had, at first, yielded to our entreaties; but when she heard that the life of her favourite was menaced, she could no longer control her anxiety. Return to Original English Version

entreating /ɪnˈtriːtɪŋ/ — suplicando; implorando. Entreating him, therefore, to remain a few minutes at the bottom of the stairs, I darted up towards my own room. Return to Original English Version

entrench /ɪnˈtrentʃ/ — entrincheirar; fortificar. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Return to Original English Version

enveloped /ɪnˈveləpt/ — envolvido; embuçado. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Return to Original English Version

erroneously /ɪˈroʊniəsli/ — erroneamente. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

exalted /ɪɡˈzɔːltɪd/ — exaltado; erguido bem alto. I doubted at first whether I should attempt the creation of a being like myself, or one of simpler organization; but my imagination was too much exalted by my first success to permit me to doubt of my ability to give life to an animal as complex and wonderful as man. Return to Original English Version

excessively /ɪkˈsesɪvli/ — excessivamente; em demasia. I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. Return to Original English Version

excite /ɪkˈsaɪt/ — entusiasmar; excitar; provocar. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Return to Original English Version

exclaimed /ɪkˈskleɪmd/ — exclamaram; gritaram. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation. Return to Original English Version

excursion /ɪkˈskɜːrʒən/ — excursão; passeio. When I was about five years old, while making an excursion beyond the frontiers of Italy, they passed a week on the shores of the Lake of Como. Return to Original English Version

exemplified /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪd/ — exemplificou. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Return to Original English Version

exerted /ɪɡˈzɜːrtɪd/ — exerceu; empregou esforço. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. Return to Original English Version

exertion /ɪɡˈzɜːrʃən/ — esforço; empenho físico. The interval was, consequently, spent in inaction; his grief only became more deep and rankling, when he had leisure for reflection; and at length it took so fast hold of his mind, that at the end of three months he lay on a bed of sickness, incapable of any exertion. Return to Original English Version

experimentalist /ɪkˌsperɪˈmentəlɪst/ — experimentalista; pesquisador experimental. If your wish is to become really a man of science, and not merely a petty experimentalist, I should advise you to apply to every branch of natural philosophy, including mathematics.” Return to Original English Version

Original Text: Rare Words (2/3)

expressive /ɪkˈspresɪv/ — expressivo. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features. Return to Original English Version

extinguished /ɪkˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt/ — apagou; extinto; sufocado. It is so long before the mind can persuade itself that she, whom we saw every day, and whose very existence appeared a part of our own, can have departed forever - that the brightness of a beloved eye can have been extinguished, and the sound of a voice so familiar, and dear to the ear, can be hushed, never more to be heard. Return to Original English Version

exultation /ˌeɡzʌlˈteɪʃən/ — exultação; júbilo. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Return to Original English Version

eyeballs /ˈaɪbɔːlz/ — globos oculares. In a solitary chamber, or rather cell, at the top of the house, and separated from all the other apartments by a gallery and staircase, I kept my workshop of filthy creation: my eyeballs were starting from their sockets in attending to the details of my employment. Return to Original English Version

facile /ˈfæsəl/ — fácil e superficial. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. Return to Original English Version

fairer /ˈfeərər/ — mais belo. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles. Return to Original English Version

familiarly /fəˈmɪliərli/ — com familiaridade. We called each other familiarly by the name of cousin. Return to Original English Version

fancies /ˈfænsiz/ — fantasias. I read and studied the wild fancies of these writers with delight; they appeared to me treasures known to few beside myself. Return to Original English Version

fancying /ˈfænsiɪŋ/ — imaginando; supondo. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Return to Original English Version

fatality /fəˈtæləti/ — fatalidade; destino trágico. All that he said threw greatly into the shade Cornelius Agrippa, Albertus Magnus, and Paracelsus, the lords of my imagination; but by some fatality the overthrow of these men disinclined me to pursue my accustomed studies. Return to Original English Version

fatiguing /fəˈtiːɡɪŋ/ — cansativo. I had sufficient leisure for these and many other reflections during my journey to Ingolstadt, which was long and fatiguing. Return to Original English Version

faultiness /ˈfɔːltɪnəs/ — imperfeição; falha. I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. Return to Original English Version

fervent /ˈfɜːrvənt/ — fervente; ardoroso. I have described myself as always having been imbued with a fervent longing to penetrate the secrets of nature. Return to Original English Version

fervently /ˈfɜːrvəntli/ — fervorosamente; com ardor. It was my temper to avoid a crowd, and to attach myself fervently to a few. Return to Original English Version

fervour /ˈfɜːrvər/ — fervor (grafia britânica). He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. Return to Original English Version

fienddoth /fiːnd/ — demônio; monstro. “Like one who, on a lonely road,Doth walk in fear and dread,And, having once turned round, walks on,And turns no more his head;Because he knows a frightful fiendDoth close behind him tread.”1 Return to Original English Version

filial /ˈfɪliəl/ — filial. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love. Return to Original English Version

firmest /ˈfɜːrmɪst/ — o mais firme; o mais inabalável. She joined the hands of Elizabeth and myself: - “My children,” she said, “my firmest hopes of future happiness were placed on the prospect of your union. Return to Original English Version

flannel /ˈflænəl/ — flanela. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Return to Original English Version

florins /ˈflɔːrɪnz/ — florins. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

floundering /ˈflaʊndərɪŋ/ — debatendo-se; atrapalhando-se. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

flourishing /ˈflɜːrɪʃɪŋ/ — sacudindo; agitando no ar. One of his most intimate friends was a merchant, who, from a flourishing state, fell, through numerous mischances, into poverty. Return to Original English Version

fluctuating /ˈflʌktʃueɪtɪŋ/ — oscilante. My application was at first fluctuating and uncertain; it gained strength as I proceeded, and soon became so ardent and eager, that the stars often disappeared in the light of morning whilst I was yet engaged in my laboratory. Return to Original English Version

foldings /ˈfoʊldɪŋz/ — dobras; pregas. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

folly /ˈfɑːli/ — tolice; insensatez. Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have been folly to repent. Return to Original English Version

fondness /ˈfɑːndnəs/ — afeição; gosto por. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Return to Original English Version

forcibly /ˈfɔːrsəbli/ — à força; compulsoriamente. I threw the door forcibly open, as children are accustomed to do when they expect a spectre to stand in waiting for them on the other side; but nothing appeared. Return to Original English Version

fortifications /ˌfɔːrtɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz/ — fortificações. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

fortitude /ˈfɔːrtɪtuːd/ — fortaleza de ânimo; coragem serena. On her deathbed the fortitude and benignity of this best of women did not desert her. Return to Original English Version

frankness /ˈfræŋknəs/ — franqueza; sinceridade. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. Return to Original English Version

frantic /ˈfræntɪk/ — desesperados; fora de si. My limbs now tremble, and my eyes swim with the remembrance; but then a resistless, and almost frantic, impulse, urged me forward; I seemed to have lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit. Return to Original English Version

frementi /freˈmɛnti/ — frementes (fervilhantes). The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. Return to Original English Version

frontiers /frʌnˈtɪrz/ — fronteiras. When I was about five years old, while making an excursion beyond the frontiers of Italy, they passed a week on the shores of the Lake of Como. Return to Original English Version

fulfilment /fʊlˈfɪlmənt/ — realização. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Return to Original English Version

furiously /ˈfjʊriəsli/ — furiosamente. “Do not ask me,” cried I, putting my hands before my eyes, for I thought I saw the dreaded spectre glide into the room; “he can tell. - Oh, save me! save me!” I imagined that the monster seized me; I struggled furiously, and fell down in a fit. Return to Original English Version

futile /ˈfjuːtaɪl/ — fútil; inútil. It was very different, when the masters of the science sought immortality and power; such views, although futile, were grand: but now the scene was changed. Return to Original English Version

gallant /ˈɡælənt/ — galante; bravo; garboso. The busy stage of life, the virtues of heroes, and the actions of men, were his theme; and his hope and his dream was to become one among those whose names are recorded in story, as the gallant and adventurous benefactors of our species. Return to Original English Version

gazed /ɡeɪzd/ — contemplou; olhou fixamente. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

gazing /ˈɡeɪzɪŋ/ — contemplando; olhando fixamente. By the by, I mean to lecture you a little upon their account myself. - But, my dear Frankenstein,” continued he, stopping short, and gazing full in my face, “I did not before remark how very ill you appear; so thin and pale; you look as if you had been watching for several nights.” Return to Original English Version

genevese /ˌdʒɛnəˈviːz/ — genebrino. I am by birth a Genevese; and my family is one of the most distinguished of that republic. Return to Original English Version

gentleness /ˈdʒentəlnəs/ — gentileza; brandura; suavidade. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. Return to Original English Version

gladness /ˈɡlædnəs/ — contentamento; júbilo. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember. Return to Original English Version

glimmer /ˈɡlɪmər/ — vislumbre; brilho fraco. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

glimmering /ˈɡlɪmərɪŋ/ — brilhando fracamente. I was like the Arabian who had been buried with the dead, and found a passage to life, aided only by one glimmering, and seemingly ineffectual, light. Return to Original English Version

grandeur /ˈɡrændʒər/ — grandiosidade; magnificência. I was required to exchange chimeras of boundless grandeur for realities of little worth. Return to Original English Version

grappling /ˈɡræplɪŋ/ — lutando corpo a corpo. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were grappling with a palpable enemy; one by one the various keys were touched which formed the mechanism of my being: chord after chord was sounded, and soon my mind was filled with one thought, one conception, one purpose. Return to Original English Version

grasped /ɡræst/ — compreendeu. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy. Return to Original English Version

gratifying /ˈɡrætɪfaɪɪŋ/ — gratificante. After so much time spent in painful labour, to arrive at once at the summit of my desires, was the most gratifying consummation of my toils. Return to Original English Version

greedily /ˈɡriːdɪli/ — gulosamente; avidamente. Good God! in what desert land have you lived, where no one was kind enough to inform you that these fancies, which you have so greedily imbibed, are a thousand years old, and as musty as they are ancient? Return to Original English Version

grieved /ɡriːvd/ — lamentou; sofreu. My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances. Return to Original English Version

gruff /ɡrʌf/ — ríspido; áspero. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. Return to Original English Version

hastened /ˈheɪsənd/ — apressou-se; acelerou. Overjoyed at this discovery, he hastened to the house, which was situated in a mean street, near the Reuss. Return to Original English Version

heartfelt /ˈhɑːrtfɛlt/ — sincero; sentido de coração. Professor Krempe often asked me, with a sly smile, how Cornelius Agrippa went on? whilst M. Waldman expressed the most heartfelt exultation in my progress. Return to Original English Version

heartily /ˈhɑːrtɪli/ — cordialmente; vigorosamente; de coração. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

hindrance /ˈhɪndrəns/ — estorvo; empecilho. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. Return to Original English Version

hitherto /ˌhɪðərˈtuː/ — até agora; até então. Her health, and even the tranquillity of her hitherto constant spirit, had been shaken by what she had gone through. Return to Original English Version

horrid /ˈhɒrɪd/ — horrível; detestável. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

hue /hjuː/ — matiz; tonalidade. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Return to Original English Version

hushed /hʌʃt/ — baixo; silencioso. It is so long before the mind can persuade itself that she, whom we saw every day, and whose very existence appeared a part of our own, can have departed forever - that the brightness of a beloved eye can have been extinguished, and the sound of a voice so familiar, and dear to the ear, can be hushed, never more to be heard. Return to Original English Version

ignoble /ɪɡˈnoʊbəl/ — vil; indigno; baixo. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys. Return to Original English Version

ignorantly /ˈɪɡnərəntli/ — por ignorância; de modo ignorante. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

imbibed /ɪmˈbaɪbd/ — absorveu; ingeriu. Good God! in what desert land have you lived, where no one was kind enough to inform you that these fancies, which you have so greedily imbibed, are a thousand years old, and as musty as they are ancient? Return to Original English Version

imbued /ɪmˈbjuːd/ — imbuído; impregnado. I have described myself as always having been imbued with a fervent longing to penetrate the secrets of nature. Return to Original English Version

immensity /ɪˈmensəti/ — imensidão. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Return to Original English Version

immutable /ɪˈmjuːtəbəl/ — imutável. Destiny was too potent, and her immutable laws had decreed my utter and terrible destruction. Return to Original English Version

impediments /ɪmˈpedəmənts/ — impedimentos; obstáculos. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

impelled /ɪmˈpeld/ — impeliu; levado a; impulsionado. I did not dare return to the apartment which I inhabited, but felt impelled to hurry on, although drenched by the rain which poured from a black and comfortless sky. Return to Original English Version

impossibilities /ɪmˌpɑːsəˈbɪlətiz/ — impossibilidades. “The ancient teachers of this science,” said he, “promised impossibilities, and performed nothing. Return to Original English Version

impracticability /ɪmˌpræktɪkəˈbɪləti/ — impraticabilidade. Nor could I consider the magnitude and complexity of my plan as any argument of its impracticability. Return to Original English Version

imprinted /ɪmˈprɪntɪd/ — impresso; gravado. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Return to Original English Version

imprudence /ɪmˈpruːdəns/ — imprudência. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

inaction /ɪnˈækʃən/ — inação; imobilidade. The interval was, consequently, spent in inaction; his grief only became more deep and rankling, when he had leisure for reflection; and at length it took so fast hold of his mind, that at the end of three months he lay on a bed of sickness, incapable of any exertion. Return to Original English Version

inanimate /ɪnˈænɪmət/ — inanimado; sem vida. I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. Return to Original English Version

inarticulate /ˌɪnɑːrˈtɪkjələt/ — sem conseguir falar; incapaz de articular. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. Return to Original English Version

incantations /ˌɪnkænˈteɪʃənz/ — encantamentos; esconjuros. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Return to Original English Version

incessantly /ɪnˈsesəntli/ — incessantemente. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Return to Original English Version

incipient /ɪnˈsɪpiənt/ — incipiente. Sometimes I grew alarmed at the wreck I perceived that I had become; the energy of my purpose alone sustained me: my labours would soon end, and I believed that exercise and amusement would then drive away incipient disease; and I promised myself both of these when my creation should be complete. Return to Original English Version

inclemency /ɪnˈklɛmənsi/ — intempérie; rigor do clima. When I was thirteen years of age, we all went on a party of pleasure to the baths near Thonon: the inclemency of the weather obliged us to remain a day confined to the inn. Return to Original English Version

inclination /ˌɪnklɪˈneɪʃən/ — inclinação; vontade. When I look back, it seems to me as if this almost miraculous change of inclination and will was the immediate suggestion of the guardian angel of my life - the last effort made by the spirit of preservation to avert the storm that was even then hanging in the stars, and ready to envelope me. Return to Original English Version

inconceivable /ˌɪnkənˈsiːvəbəl/ — inconcebível; impensável. Although I possessed the capacity of bestowing animation, yet to prepare a frame for the reception of it, with all its intricacies of fibres, muscles, and veins, still remained a work of inconceivable difficulty and labour. Return to Original English Version

incredulous /ɪnˈkrɛdʒələs/ — incrédulo; sem acreditar. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

indebted /ɪnˈdetɪd/ — em dívida; grato. He said, that “these were men to whose indefatigable zeal modern philosophers were indebted for most of the foundations of their knowledge. Return to Original English Version

indefatigable /ˌɪndɪˈfætɪɡəbəl/ — infatigável; incansável. He was respected by all who knew him, for his integrity and indefatigable attention to public business. Return to Original English Version

indifferent /ɪnˈdɪfrənt/ — indiferente; apático; medíocre. I was indifferent, therefore, to my schoolfellows in general; but I united myself in the bonds of the closest friendship to one among them. Return to Original English Version

indiscriminately /ˌɪndɪˈskrɪmɪnətli/ — indiscriminadamente. My temper was sometimes violent, and my passions vehement; but by some law in my temperature they were turned, not towards childish pursuits, but to an eager desire to learn, and not to learn all things indiscriminately. Return to Original English Version

indulged /ɪnˈdʌldʒd/ — satisfez; entregou-se a. I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections. Return to Original English Version

indulgence /ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/ — indulgência; concessão. My parents were possessed by the very spirit of kindness and indulgence. Return to Original English Version

ineffectual /ˌɪnɪˈfektʃuəl/ — ineficaz; inútil. It was a strong effort of the spirit of good; but it was ineffectual. Return to Original English Version

inexhaustible /ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbəl/ — inesgotável; sem fundo. Much as they were attached to each other, they seemed to draw inexhaustible stores of affection from a very mine of love to bestow them upon me. Return to Original English Version

inexperience /ˌɪnɪkˈspɪriəns/ — inexperiência. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Return to Original English Version

inexpressible /ˌɪnɪkˈspresəbəl/ — inexprimível; indizível. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Return to Original English Version

infallible /ɪnˈfæləbəl/ — infalível. I will not lead you on, unguarded and ardent as I then was, to your destruction and infallible misery. Return to Original English Version

infallibly /ɪnˈfæləbli/ — infalivelmente. A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. Return to Original English Version

infidels /ˈɪnfɪdəlz/ — infiéis. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels. Return to Original English Version

infuse /ɪnˈfjuːz/ — infundir; introduzir. With an anxiety that almost amounted to agony, I collected the instruments of life around me, that I might infuse a spark of being into the lifeless thing that lay at my feet. Return to Original English Version

infusing /ɪnˈfjuːzɪŋ/ — infundindo; introduzindo. I had worked hard for nearly two years, for the sole purpose of infusing life into an inanimate body. Return to Original English Version

insensible /ɪnˈsɛnsəbəl/ — inconsciente; sem sentidos. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys. Return to Original English Version

instructing /ɪnˈstrʌktɪŋ/ — instruindo. He then took me into his laboratory, and explained to me the uses of his various machines; instructing me as to what I ought to procure, and promising me the use of his own when I should have advanced far enough in the science not to derange their mechanism. Return to Original English Version

insupportable /ˌɪnsəˈpɔːrtəbəl/ — insuportável; intolerável. My attention was fixed upon every object the most insupportable to the delicacy of the human feelings. Return to Original English Version

insurrection /ˌɪnsəˈrekʃən/ — insurreição. My internal being was in a state of insurrection and turmoil; I felt that order would thence arise, but I had no power to produce it. Return to Original English Version

interment /ɪnˈtɜːrmənt/ — sepultamento. He came like a protecting spirit to the poor girl, who committed herself to his care; and after the interment of his friend, he conducted her to Geneva, and placed her under the protection of a relation. Return to Original English Version

interruption /ˌɪntəˈrʌpʃən/ — interrupção. You must pardon me if I regard any interruption in your correspondence as a proof that your other duties are equally neglected.” Return to Original English Version

intolerable /ɪnˈtɑlərəbəl/ — intolerável. Unless I had been animated by an almost supernatural enthusiasm, my application to this study would have been irksome, and almost intolerable. Return to Original English Version

intricacies /ˈɪntrɪkəsiz/ — meandros; complexidades. Although I possessed the capacity of bestowing animation, yet to prepare a frame for the reception of it, with all its intricacies of fibres, muscles, and veins, still remained a work of inconceivable difficulty and labour. Return to Original English Version

invincible /ɪnˈvɪnsəbəl/ — invencível. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. Return to Original English Version

invulnerable /ɪnˈvʌlnərəbəl/ — invulnerável. Wealth was an inferior object; but what glory would attend the discovery, if I could banish disease from the human frame, and render man invulnerable to any but a violent death! Return to Original English Version

irksome /ˈɜːrksəm/ — enfadonho; incômodo. Unless I had been animated by an almost supernatural enthusiasm, my application to this study would have been irksome, and almost intolerable. Return to Original English Version

irreparable /ɪˈrepərəbəl/ — irreparável. I need not describe the feelings of those whose dearest ties are rent by that most irreparable evil; the void that presents itself to the soul; and the despair that is exhibited on the countenance. Return to Original English Version

irresistible /ˌɪrɪˈzɪstəbəl/ — irresistível. I knew well therefore what would be my father’s feelings; but I could not tear my thoughts from my employment, loathsome in itself, but which had taken an irresistible hold of my imagination. Return to Original English Version

kindling /ˈkɪndlɪŋ/ — gravetos; acendendo; despertando. He said little; but when he spoke, I read in his kindling eye and in his animated glance a restrained but firm resolve, not to be chained to the miserable details of commerce. Return to Original English Version

knightly /ˈnaɪtli/ — cavaleiresco; próprio de um cavaleiro. He composed heroic songs, and began to write many a tale of enchantment and knightly adventure. Return to Original English Version

labours /ˈleɪbərz/ — trabalhos; pesquisas. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

languor /ˈlæŋɡər/ — langor; moleza. Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly, that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness. Return to Original English Version

lapse /læps/ — intervalo; decurso (de tempo); deslize. These are the reflections of the first days; but when the lapse of time proves the reality of the evil, then the actual bitterness of grief commences. Return to Original English Version

lassitude /ˈlæsɪtuːd/ — lassidão; enfado cansado. At length lassitude succeeded to the tumult I had before endured; and I threw myself on the bed in my clothes, endeavouring to seek a few moments of forgetfulness. Return to Original English Version

latterly /ˈlætərli/ — ultimamente. Her victory was announced by an unusual tranquillity and gladness of soul, which followed the relinquishing of my ancient and latterly tormenting studies. Return to Original English Version

leaved /livd/ — com folhas. She continued with her foster parents, and bloomed in their rude abode, fairer than a garden rose among dark-leaved brambles. Return to Original English Version

lecturing /ˈlektʃərɪŋ/ — dando aula; sermoneando. Partly from curiosity, and partly from idleness, I went into the lecturing room, which M. Waldman entered shortly after. Return to Original English Version

liberally /ˈlɪbərəli/ — liberalmente; com generosidade. The raising of ghosts or devils was a promise liberally accorded by my favourite authors, the fulfilment of which I most eagerly sought; and if my incantations were always unsuccessful, I attributed the failure rather to my own inexperience and mistake, than to a want of skill or fidelity in my instructors. Return to Original English Version

ligaments /ˈlɪɡəmənts/ — ligamentos. Thus strangely are our souls constructed, and by such slight ligaments are we bound to prosperity or ruin. Return to Original English Version

lineaments /ˈlɪnɪmɛnts/ — traço; característica. He had partially unveiled the face of Nature, but her immortal lineaments were still a wonder and a mystery. Return to Original English Version

lingered /ˈlɪŋərɛd/ — demorar-se; permanecer. Whether he had died, or still lingered in the dungeons of Austria, was not known. Return to Original English Version

livid /ˈlɪvɪd/ — lívido; arroxeado; furioso. Delighted and surprised, I embraced her; but as I imprinted the first kiss on her lips, they became livid with the hue of death; her features appeared to change, and I thought that I held the corpse of my dead mother in my arms; a shroud enveloped her form, and I saw the grave-worms crawling in the folds of the flannel. Return to Original English Version

loathsome /ˈloʊðsəm/ — repugnantes; nojentas. I knew well therefore what would be my father’s feelings; but I could not tear my thoughts from my employment, loathsome in itself, but which had taken an irresistible hold of my imagination. Return to Original English Version

loudness /ˈlaʊdnəs/ — volume; intensidade sonora. It advanced from behind the mountains of Jura; and the thunder burst at once with frightful loudness from various quarters of the heavens. Return to Original English Version

loveliness /ˈlʌvlinəs/ — beleza; encanto. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Return to Original English Version

lustrous /ˈlʌstrəs/ — lustroso; brilhante. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

luxuriances /lʌɡˈʒʊəriənsɪz/ — exuberâncias; abundâncias. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

luxuriant /lʌɡˈʒʊriənt/ — exuberante; viçoso; luxuriante. It was a most beautiful season; never did the fields bestow a more plentiful harvest, or the vines yield a more luxuriant vintage: but my eyes were insensible to the charms of nature. Return to Original English Version

magnificence /mæɡˈnɪfɪsəns/ — magnificência. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Return to Original English Version

malignity /məˈlɪɡnəti/ — malignidade; má vontade. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

masquerades /ˌmæskəˈreɪdz/ — disfarces. He tried to make us act plays, and to enter into masquerades, in which the characters were drawn from the heroes of Roncesvalles, of the Round Table of King Arthur, and the chivalrous train who shed their blood to redeem the holy sepulchre from the hands of the infidels. Return to Original English Version

melancholy /ˈmɛlənkəli/ — melancolia; tristeza pensativa. I threw myself into the chaise that was to convey me away, and indulged in the most melancholy reflections. Return to Original English Version

menaced /ˈmɛnəst/ — ameaçava; apontava contra. She had, at first, yielded to our entreaties; but when she heard that the life of her favourite was menaced, she could no longer control her anxiety. Return to Original English Version

metaphysical /ˌmɛtəˈfɪzɪkəl/ — metafísico. It was the secrets of heaven and earth that I desired to learn; and whether it was the outward substance of things, or the inner spirit of nature and the mysterious soul of man that occupied me, still my enquiries were directed to the metaphysical, or, in its highest sense, the physical secrets of the world. Return to Original English Version

mien /miːn/ — semblante; porte. His manners in private were even more mild and attractive than in public; for there was a certain dignity in his mien during his lecture, which in his own house was replaced by the greatest affability and kindness. Return to Original English Version

milanese /ˌmɪləˈniːz/ — milanês. She was not her child, but the daughter of a Milanese nobleman. Return to Original English Version

mimic /ˈmɪmɪk/ — imitar; arremedo. They have acquired new and almost unlimited powers; they can command the thunders of heaven, mimic the earthquake, and even mock the invisible world with its own shadows.” Return to Original English Version

mingled /ˈmɪŋɡəld/ — misturou-se; misturava-se. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love. Return to Original English Version

mingling /ˈmɪŋɡlɪŋ/ — misturando-se; entremeando. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

minuteness /maɪˈnjuːtnəs/ — minúcia; grande detalhamento. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. Return to Original English Version

minutiae /mɪˈnjuːʃiiː/ — minúcias; detalhes muito pequenos. I paused, examining and analysing all the minutiae of causation, as exemplified in the change from life to death, and death to life, until from the midst of this darkness a sudden light broke in upon me - a light so brilliant and wondrous, yet so simple, that while I became dizzy with the immensity of the prospect which it illustrated, I was surprised, that among so many men of genius who had directed their enquiries towards the same science, that I alone should be reserved to discover so astonishing a secret. Return to Original English Version

miraculous /mɪˈrækjələs/ — milagroso; prodigioso. When I look back, it seems to me as if this almost miraculous change of inclination and will was the immediate suggestion of the guardian angel of my life - the last effort made by the spirit of preservation to avert the storm that was even then hanging in the stars, and ready to envelope me. Return to Original English Version

mischances /mɪsˈtʃænsɪz/ — infortúnios. One of his most intimate friends was a merchant, who, from a flourishing state, fell, through numerous mischances, into poverty. Return to Original English Version

moderation /ˌmɑːdəˈreɪʃən/ — moderação; comedimento. I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart. Return to Original English Version

modesty /ˈmɑːdəsti/ — modéstia; recato. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

moralising /ˈmɒrəlaɪzɪŋ/ — moralizando. But I forget that I am moralising in the most interesting part of my tale; and your looks remind me to proceed. Return to Original English Version

morning's /ˈmɔːrnɪŋz/ — da manhã. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Return to Original English Version

morrow /ˈmɒrəʊ/ — amanhã. On the evening previous to her being brought to my home, my mother had said playfully, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” And when, on the morrow, she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I, with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine - mine to protect, love, and cherish. Return to Original English Version

mould /moʊld/ — molde; moldar; mofo; húmus. But Caroline Beaufort possessed a mind of an uncommon mould; and her courage rose to support her in her adversity. Return to Original English Version

moulding /ˈmoʊldɪŋ/ — moldura; friso. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features. Return to Original English Version

multifarious /ˌmʌltɪˈfɛəriəs/ — variado. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

musty /ˈmʌsti/ — bolorento; com cheiro de mofo. Good God! in what desert land have you lived, where no one was kind enough to inform you that these fancies, which you have so greedily imbibed, are a thousand years old, and as musty as they are ancient? Return to Original English Version

muttered /ˈmʌtərd/ — resmungou; murmurou. His jaws opened, and he muttered some inarticulate sounds, while a grin wrinkled his cheeks. Return to Original English Version

narration /næˈreɪʃən/ — narração. Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate; I desire, therefore, in this narration, to state those facts which led to my predilection for that science. Return to Original English Version

natures /ˈneɪtʃərz/ — naturezas. A new species would bless me as its creator and source; many happy and excellent natures would owe their being to me. Return to Original English Version

nay /neɪ/ — nï¿½o; de modo algum. After days and nights of incredible labour and fatigue, I succeeded in discovering the cause of generation and life; nay, more, I became myself capable of bestowing animation upon lifeless matter. Return to Original English Version

nursed /nɜːrst/ — cuidou; amamentou. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. Return to Original English Version

obliterated /əˈblɪtəreɪtɪd/ — apagado; quase desaparecido. But this discovery was so great and overwhelming, that all the steps by which I had been progressively led to it were obliterated, and I beheld only the result. Return to Original English Version

oblivion /əˈblɪviən/ — esquecimento; olvido. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Return to Original English Version

occupations /ˌɑːkjəˈpeɪʃənz/ — ocupações; afazeres. They consulted their village priest, and the result was, that Elizabeth Lavenza became the inmate of my parents’ house - my more than sister - the beautiful and adored companion of all my occupations and my pleasures. Return to Original English Version

occurrences /əˈkɜːrənsɪz/ — acontecimentos; ocorrências. I trembled excessively; I could not endure to think of, and far less to allude to, the occurrences of the preceding night. Return to Original English Version

ognor /ˈɔɲɔr/ — sempre. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. Return to Original English Version

omen /ˈoʊmən/ — presságio. My departure was therefore fixed at an early date; but, before the day resolved upon could arrive, the first misfortune of my life occurred - an omen, as it were, of my future misery. Return to Original English Version

omnipotent /ɑːmˈnɪpətənt/ — onipotente. Chance - or rather the evil influence, the Angel of Destruction, which asserted omnipotent sway over me from the moment I turned my reluctant steps from my father’s door - led me first to Mr. Krempe, professor of natural philosophy. Return to Original English Version

pacing /ˈpeɪsɪŋ/ — que caminha; em marcha lenta. The porter opened the gates of the court, which had that night been my asylum, and I issued into the streets, pacing them with quick steps, as if I sought to avoid the wretch whom I feared every turning of the street would present to my view. Return to Original English Version

palpable /ˈpælpəbəl/ — palpável; evidente. As he went on, I felt as if my soul were grappling with a palpable enemy; one by one the various keys were touched which formed the mechanism of my being: chord after chord was sounded, and soon my mind was filled with one thought, one conception, one purpose. Return to Original English Version

palpitated /ˈpælpɪteɪtɪd/ — pulsou. My heart palpitated in the sickness of fear; and I hurried on with irregular steps, not daring to look about me: - Return to Original English Version

palpitation /ˌpælpɪˈteɪʃən/ — palpitação. Sometimes my pulse beat so quickly and hardly, that I felt the palpitation of every artery; at others, I nearly sank to the ground through languor and extreme weakness. Return to Original English Version

panegyric /ˌpænəˈdʒɪrɪk/ — elogio solene. After having made a few preparatory experiments, he concluded with a panegyric upon modern chemistry, the terms of which I shall never forget: - Return to Original English Version

panes /peɪnz/ — vidraças; painéis de vidro. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

pattered /ˈpætərd/ — tamborilou. It was already one in the morning; the rain pattered dismally against the panes, and my candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open; it breathed hard, and a convulsive motion agitated its limbs. Return to Original English Version

pearly /ˈpɜːrli/ — perolado. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

peculiarly /pɪˈkjuːljərli/ — particularmente; de modo especial. When I mingled with other families, I distinctly discerned how peculiarly fortunate my lot was, and gratitude assisted the development of filial love. Return to Original English Version

pedantry /ˈpedəntri/ — pedantismo. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. Return to Original English Version

penetrated /ˈpɛnɪtreɪtɪd/ — penetravam; embrenhavam-se. But here were books, and here were men who had penetrated deeper and knew more. Return to Original English Version

penury /ˈpɛnjəri/ — pobreza extrema. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

perceiving /pərˈsiːvɪŋ/ — percebendo; dando-se conta. The peasant woman, perceiving that my mother fixed eyes of wonder and admiration on this lovely girl, eagerly communicated her history. Return to Original English Version

perpetually /pərˈpetʃuəli/ — perpetuamente; incessantemente. He passed his younger days perpetually occupied by the affairs of his country; a variety of circumstances had prevented his marrying early, nor was it until the decline of life that he became a husband and the father of a family. Return to Original English Version

persuading /pərˈsweɪdɪŋ/ — persuadindo; convencendo. He lost no time in endeavouring to seek him out, with the hope of persuading him to begin the world again through his credit and assistance. Return to Original English Version

physiognomy /ˌfɪziˈɑːɡnəmi/ — fisionomia; feições. I attended the lectures, and cultivated the acquaintance, of the men of science of the university; and I found even in M. Krempe a great deal of sound sense and real information, combined, it is true, with a repulsive physiognomy and manners, but not on that account the less valuable. Return to Original English Version

pittance /ˈpɪtəns/ — ninharia; salário irrisório. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life. Return to Original English Version

plainly /ˈpleɪnli/ — claramente. The leaves of that year had withered before my work drew near to a close; and now every day showed me more plainly how well I had succeeded. Return to Original English Version

playfully /ˈpleɪfəli/ — brincalhonamente; de brincadeira. On the evening previous to her being brought to my home, my mother had said playfully, “I have a pretty present for my Victor - tomorrow he shall have it.” And when, on the morrow, she presented Elizabeth to me as her promised gift, I, with childish seriousness, interpreted her words literally, and looked upon Elizabeth as mine - mine to protect, love, and cherish. Return to Original English Version

playmate /ˈpleɪmeɪt/ — companheiro de brincadeiras. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Return to Original English Version

pleasurable /ˈpleʒərəbəl/ — agradável; aprazível. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Return to Original English Version

plentiful /ˈplɛntɪfəl/ — abundante. It was a most beautiful season; never did the fields bestow a more plentiful harvest, or the vines yield a more luxuriant vintage: but my eyes were insensible to the charms of nature. Return to Original English Version

pore /pɔːr/ — poro. But these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. Return to Original English Version

preceptors /prɪˈsɛptərz/ — preceptores. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Return to Original English Version

precepts /ˈpriːsepts/ — preceitos. Learn from me, if not by my precepts, at least by my example, how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge, and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow. Return to Original English Version

predilection /ˌpredəˈlekʃən/ — predileção. Natural philosophy is the genius that has regulated my fate; I desire, therefore, in this narration, to state those facts which led to my predilection for that science. Return to Original English Version

prejudices /ˈpredʒədɪsɪz/ — preconceitos; ideias preconcebidas. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

preparatory /prɪˈpærətɔːri/ — preparatório. After having made a few preparatory experiments, he concluded with a panegyric upon modern chemistry, the terms of which I shall never forget: - Return to Original English Version

prepossess /ˌpriːpəˈzɛs/ — causar boa impressão em. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. Return to Original English Version

preserver /prɪˈzɜːrvər/ — preservador; salva-vidas. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

presumption /prɪˈzʌmpʃən/ — presunção; suposição; atrevimento. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

pretence /prɪˈtɛns/ — pretexto. We could not tear ourselves away from each other, nor persuade ourselves to say the word “Farewell!” It was said; and we retired under the pretence of seeking repose, each fancying that the other was deceived: but when at morning’s dawn I descended to the carriage which was to convey me away, they were all there - my father again to bless me, Clerval to press my hand once more, my Elizabeth to renew her entreaties that I would write often, and to bestow the last feminine attentions on her playmate and friend. Return to Original English Version

prevailed /prɪˈveɪld/ — prevaleceu; vigorou; persuadiu. With his permission my mother prevailed on her rustic guardians to yield their charge to her. Return to Original English Version

principally /ˈprɪnsəpli/ — principalmente. We resided principally in the latter, and the lives of my parents were passed in considerable seclusion. Return to Original English Version

procrastinate /proʊˈkræstɪneɪt/ — procrastinar. I wished, as it were, to procrastinate all that related to my feelings of affection until the great object, which swallowed up every habit of my nature, should be completed. Return to Original English Version

Original Text: Rare Words (3/3)

procure /prəˈkjʊr/ — conseguir; obter; providenciar. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. Return to Original English Version

procured /proʊˈkjʊrd/ — obtida; conseguida. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life. Return to Original English Version

profane /prəˈfeɪn/ — profanar; profano. I collected bones from charnel-houses; and disturbed, with profane fingers, the tremendous secrets of the human frame. Return to Original English Version

proficiency /prəˈfɪʃənsi/ — proficiência; domínio. My ardour was indeed the astonishment of the students, and my proficiency that of the masters. Return to Original English Version

progeny /ˈprɑːdʒəni/ — prole; descendência. By one of those caprices of the mind, which we are perhaps most subject to in early youth, I at once gave up my former occupations; set down natural history and all its progeny as a deformed and abortive creation; and entertained the greatest disdain for a would-be science, which could never even step within the threshold of real knowledge. Return to Original English Version

prognosticated /prɒɡˈnɒstɪkeɪtɪd/ — prognosticou. On the third day my mother sickened; her fever was accompanied by the most alarming symptoms, and the looks of her medical attendants prognosticated the worst event. Return to Original English Version

progressively /prəˈɡrɛsɪvli/ — progressivamente. But this discovery was so great and overwhelming, that all the steps by which I had been progressively led to it were obliterated, and I beheld only the result. Return to Original English Version

pronouncing /prəˈnaʊnsɪŋ/ — pronunciando. He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. Return to Original English Version

proportionably /prəˈpɔːrʃənəbli/ — proporcionalmente. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. Return to Original English Version

protracted /proʊˈtræktɪd/ — prolongado; arrastado. When I had arrived at this point, and had become as well acquainted with the theory and practice of natural philosophy as depended on the lessons of any of the professors at Ingolstadt, my residence there being no longer conducive to my improvements, I thought of returning to my friends and my native town, when an incident happened that protracted my stay. Return to Original English Version

pursues /pərˈsuːz/ — exerce. A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. Return to Original English Version

pursuits /pərˈsuːts/ — ocupações; buscas. My temper was sometimes violent, and my passions vehement; but by some law in my temperature they were turned, not towards childish pursuits, but to an eager desire to learn, and not to learn all things indiscriminately. Return to Original English Version

radiance /ˈreɪdiəns/ — resplendor; fulgor. When my father returned from Milan, he found playing with me in the hall of our villa, a child fairer than pictured cherub - a creature who seemed to shed radiance from her looks, and whose form and motions were lighter than the chamois of the hills. Return to Original English Version

rambles /ˈræmbəlz/ — passeios a esmo. I, their eldest child, was born at Naples, and as an infant accompanied them in their rambles. Return to Original English Version

rankling /ˈræŋkl/ — incomodar profundamente. The interval was, consequently, spent in inaction; his grief only became more deep and rankling, when he had leisure for reflection; and at length it took so fast hold of his mind, that at the end of three months he lay on a bed of sickness, incapable of any exertion. Return to Original English Version

rapture /ˈræptʃər/ — arrebatamento; deleite. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember. Return to Original English Version

rashly /ˈræʃli/ — precipitadamente. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

recapitulation ˌri˙kəˈpɪtʃʊˈleɪʃən — recapitulação. He began his lecture by a recapitulation of the history of chemistry, and the various improvements made by different men of learning, pronouncing with fervour the names of the most distinguished discoverers. Return to Original English Version

receptacle /rɪˈseptəkəl/ — receptáculo; depositário. Darkness had no effect upon my fancy; and a churchyard was to me merely the receptacle of bodies deprived of life, which, from being the seat of beauty and strength, had become food for the worm. Return to Original English Version

recesses /ˈriːsesɪz/ — reentrâncias; recônditos; nichos. They penetrate into the recesses of nature, and show how she works in her hiding places. Return to Original English Version

recollected /ˌrekəˈlektɪd/ — recordou-se; recompôs-se. And although I could not consent to go and hear that little conceited fellow deliver sentences out of a pulpit, I recollected what he had said of M. Waldman, whom I had never seen, as he had hitherto been out of town. Return to Original English Version

recollection /ˌrekəˈlekʃən/ — recordação; lembrança. Nothing could equal my delight on seeing Clerval; his presence brought back to my thoughts my father, Elizabeth, and all those scenes of home so dear to my recollection. Return to Original English Version

recollections ˌrɛkəˈlɛkʃənz — lembranças. My mother’s tender caresses, and my father’s smile of benevolent pleasure while regarding me, are my first recollections. Return to Original English Version

recompensing ˈrɛkəmpɛnsɪŋ — compensando. There was a show of gratitude and worship in his attachment to my mother, differing wholly from the doting fondness of age, for it was inspired by reverence for her virtues, and a desire to be the means of, in some degree, recompensing her for the sorrows she had endured, but which gave inexpressible grace to his behaviour to her. Return to Original English Version

recourse /ˈriːkɔːrs/ — recurso; apelo a. To examine the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death. Return to Original English Version

recur /rɪˈkɜːr/ — repetir-se; voltar. I returned home, not disappointed, for I have said that I had long considered those authors useless whom the professor reprobated; but I returned, not at all the more inclined to recur to these studies in any shape. Return to Original English Version

relinquished /rɪˈlɪŋkwɪʃt/ — abandonou; renunciou a. During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame. Return to Original English Version

relinquishing /rɪˈlɪŋkwɪʃɪŋ/ — abrindo mão de. Her victory was announced by an unusual tranquillity and gladness of soul, which followed the relinquishing of my ancient and latterly tormenting studies. Return to Original English Version

repent /rɪˈpent/ — arrepender-se. Now my desires were complied with, and it would, indeed, have been folly to repent. Return to Original English Version

repined rɪˈpaɪn — queixar-se amargamente. I had gazed upon the fortifications and impediments that seemed to keep human beings from entering the citadel of nature, and rashly and ignorantly I had repined. Return to Original English Version

repose rɪˈpoʊz — repouso. It appeared to me sacrilege so soon to leave the repose, akin to death, of the house of mourning, and to rush into the thick of life. Return to Original English Version

reproach rɪˈproʊtʃ — reprovação. My father made no reproach in his letters, and only took notice of my silence by enquiring into my occupations more particularly than before. Return to Original English Version

reprobated ˈrɛprəbeɪt — devasso. I returned home, not disappointed, for I have said that I had long considered those authors useless whom the professor reprobated; but I returned, not at all the more inclined to recur to these studies in any shape. Return to Original English Version

repugnance /rɪˈpʌɡnəns/ — repugnância; aversão. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. Return to Original English Version

repulsive /rɪˈpʌlsɪv/ — repulsivo; repugnante. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. Return to Original English Version

resided /rɪˈzaɪdɪd/ — residiu; morava. We resided principally in the latter, and the lives of my parents were passed in considerable seclusion. Return to Original English Version

resistless /rɪˈzɪstləs/ — irresistível (grafia antiga). My limbs now tremble, and my eyes swim with the remembrance; but then a resistless, and almost frantic, impulse, urged me forward; I seemed to have lost all soul or sensation but for this one pursuit. Return to Original English Version

respite /ˈrespɪt/ — trégua; alívio. I obtained from my father a respite of some weeks. Return to Original English Version

restorative rɪˈstɔːrətɪv — restaurador. During the two years that had elapsed previous to their marriage my father had gradually relinquished all his public functions; and immediately after their union they sought the pleasant climate of Italy, and the change of scene and interest attendant on a tour through that land of wonders, as a restorative for her weakened frame. Return to Original English Version

restrain /rɪˈstreɪn/ — conter; refrear; reprimir. It was a bold question, and one which has ever been considered as a mystery; yet with how many things are we upon the brink of becoming acquainted, if cowardice or carelessness did not restrain our enquiries. Return to Original English Version

restrained rɪˈstreɪnd — contido. He said little; but when he spoke, I read in his kindling eye and in his animated glance a restrained but firm resolve, not to be chained to the miserable details of commerce. Return to Original English Version

retreated ritritʌd — recuar. Having paid his debts, therefore, in the most honourable manner, he retreated with his daughter to the town of Lucerne, where he lived unknown and in wretchedness. Return to Original English Version

retrod rɪˈtrɒd — refez. With a confusion of ideas only to be accounted for by my extreme youth, and my want of a guide on such matters, I had retrod the steps of knowledge along the paths of time, and exchanged the discoveries of recent enquirers for the dreams of forgotten alchemists. Return to Original English Version

reverential /ˌrevəˈrenʃəl/ — reverencial. The passionate and almost reverential attachment with which all regarded her became, while I shared it, my pride and my delight. Return to Original English Version

reverses /rɪˈvɜːrsɪz/ — reveses; contratempos. I prepared myself for a multitude of reverses; my operations might be incessantly baffled, and at last my work be imperfect: yet, when I considered the improvement which every day takes place in science and mechanics, I was encouraged to hope my present attempts would at least lay the foundations of future success. Return to Original English Version

revolved /rɪˈvɑːlvd/ — girou; remoeu na mente. I revolved these circumstances in my mind, and determined thenceforth to apply myself more particularly to those branches of natural philosophy which relate to physiology. Return to Original English Version

ribbons /ˈrɪbənz/ — fitas. It was not splintered by the shock, but entirely reduced to thin ribbons of wood. Return to Original English Version

rustic /ˈrʌstɪk/ — rústico; campestre. With his permission my mother prevailed on her rustic guardians to yield their charge to her. Return to Original English Version

sacrilege ˈsækrəlɪdʒ — sacrilégio. The time at length arrives, when grief is rather an indulgence than a necessity; and the smile that plays upon the lips, although it may be deemed a sacrilege, is not banished. Return to Original English Version

saintly ˈseɪntli — santo. The saintly soul of Elizabeth shone like a shrine-dedicated lamp in our peaceful home. Return to Original English Version

scanty /ˈskænti/ — escasso; exíguo; sumário. She found a peasant and his wife, hard working, bent down by care and labour, distributing a scanty meal to five hungry babes. Return to Original English Version

scarcely /\u02c8sk\u025brsli/ — mal. She procured plain work; she plaited straw; and by various means contrived to earn a pittance scarcely sufficient to support life. Return to Original English Version

schiavi /ˈskjaːvi/ — escravos. The father of their charge was one of those Italians nursed in the memory of the antique glory of Italy - one among the schiavi ognor frementi, who exerted himself to obtain the liberty of his country. Return to Original English Version

schoolfellows /ˈskuːlfɛloʊz/ — colegas de escola. I was indifferent, therefore, to my schoolfellows in general; but I united myself in the bonds of the closest friendship to one among them. Return to Original English Version

schoolmaster /ˈskuːlmæstər/ — mestre-escola; professor. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

secluded /sɪˈkluːdɪd/ — isolado; recolhido. My life had hitherto been remarkably secluded and domestic; and this had given me invincible repugnance to new countenances. Return to Original English Version

seclusion /sɪˈkluʒən/ — isolamento. We resided principally in the latter, and the lives of my parents were passed in considerable seclusion. Return to Original English Version

semblance /ˈsembləns/ — aparência; semelhança. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. Return to Original English Version

sensations sɛnseɪʃʌnz — sensação. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember. Return to Original English Version

sensibility /ˌsensəˈbɪləti/ — sensibilidade. Her brow was clear and ample, her blue eyes cloudless, and her lips and the moulding of her face so expressive of sensibility and sweetness, that none could behold her without looking on her as of a distinct species, a being heaven-sent, and bearing a celestial stamp in all her features. Return to Original English Version

sensitiveness /ˈsensətɪvnəs/ — sensibilidade excessiva. It was not joy only that possessed me; I felt my flesh tingle with excess of sensitiveness, and my pulse beat rapidly. Return to Original English Version

serene səˈriːn — sereno. I grasped his hand, and in a moment forgot my horror and misfortune; I felt suddenly, and for the first time during many months, calm and serene joy. Return to Original English Version

shivering /ˈʃɪvərɪŋ/ — tremendo de frio; tiritando. I then paused; and a cold shivering came over me. Return to Original English Version

shrivelled /ʃrɪvʌl/ — murchou. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

shunned /ʃʌnd/ — evitado; rejeitado. Every night I was oppressed by a slow fever, and I became nervous to a most painful degree; the fall of a leaf startled me, and I shunned my fellow-creatures as if I had been guilty of a crime. Return to Original English Version

silken /ˈsɪlkən/ — de seda; sedoso. With this deep consciousness of what they owed towards the being to which they had given life, added to the active spirit of tenderness that animated both, it may be imagined that while during every hour of my infant life I received a lesson of patience, of charity, and of self-control, I was so guided by a silken cord, that all seemed but one train of enjoyment to me. Return to Original English Version

singularly /ˈsɪŋɡjələrli/ — singularmente; extraordinariamente. During one of their walks a poor cot in the foldings of a vale attracted their notice, as being singularly disconsolate, while the number of half-clothed children gathered about it, spoke of penury in its worst shape. Return to Original English Version

slough /slˈʌf/ — pântano. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

smitten /ˈsmɪtən/ — fulminados; abatidos. Elizabeth was of a calmer and more concentrated disposition; but, with all my ardour, I was capable of a more intense application, and was more deeply smitten with the thirst for knowledge. Return to Original English Version

smoothed /smuːðd/ — alisou. In a thousand ways he smoothed for me the path of knowledge, and made the most abstruse enquiries clear and facile to my apprehension. Return to Original English Version

soaring /ˈsɔːrɪŋ/ — que se eleva; voando alto. And Clerval - could aught ill entrench on the noble spirit of Clerval? - yet he might not have been so perfectly humane, so thoughtful in his generosity - so full of kindness and tenderness amidst his passion for adventurous exploit, had she not unfolded to him the real loveliness of beneficence, and made the doing good the end and aim of his soaring ambition. Return to Original English Version

spectre /ˈspektər/ — espectro; fantasma; assombração. I threw the door forcibly open, as children are accustomed to do when they expect a spectre to stand in waiting for them on the other side; but nothing appeared. Return to Original English Version

splintered /ˈsplɪntərd/ — lascou-se; estilhaçou-se. It was not splintered by the shock, but entirely reduced to thin ribbons of wood. Return to Original English Version

sprung /sprʌŋ/ — saltou. As it drew nearer, I observed that it was the Swiss diligence: it stopped just where I was standing; and, on the door being opened, I perceived Henry Clerval, who, on seeing me, instantly sprung out. Return to Original English Version

squat /skwɑːt/ — agachar-se; sentar-se de cócoras. Mr. Krempe was a little squat man, with a gruff voice and a repulsive countenance; the teacher, therefore, did not prepossess me in favour of his pursuits. Return to Original English Version

startled /ˈstɑːrtəld/ — assustada; sobressaltada. Every night I was oppressed by a slow fever, and I became nervous to a most painful degree; the fall of a leaf startled me, and I shunned my fellow-creatures as if I had been guilty of a crime. Return to Original English Version

stature /ˈstætʃər/ — estatura; envergadura moral. As the minuteness of the parts formed a great hindrance to my speed, I resolved, contrary to my first intention, to make the being of a gigantic stature; that is to say, about eight feet in height, and proportionably large. Return to Original English Version

stimulated /ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪd/ — estimulou; estimulado. The labours of men of genius, however erroneously directed, scarcely ever fail in ultimately turning to the solid advantage of mankind.” I listened to his statement, which was delivered without any presumption or affectation; and then added, that his lecture had removed my prejudices against modern chemists; I expressed myself in measured terms, with the modesty and deference due from a youth to his instructor, without letting escape (inexperience in life would have made me ashamed) any of the enthusiasm which stimulated my intended labours. Return to Original English Version

strove /stroʊv/ — lutava; esforçava-se. He strove to shelter her, as a fair exotic is sheltered by the gardener, from every rougher wind, and to surround her with all that could tend to excite pleasurable emotion in her soft and benevolent mind. Return to Original English Version

subdue /səbˈduː/ — subjugar; dominar. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. Return to Original English Version

subsisted /səbˈsɪstɪd/ — subsistiu. Harmony was the soul of our companionship, and the diversity and contrast that subsisted in our characters drew us nearer together. Return to Original English Version

subsistence /səbˈsɪstəns/ — subsistência. Her father grew worse; her time was more entirely occupied in attending him; her means of subsistence decreased; and in the tenth month her father died in her arms, leaving her an orphan and a beggar. Return to Original English Version

successors /səkˈsesərz/ — sucessores. Those of his successors in each branch of natural philosophy with whom I was acquainted, appeared even to my boy’s apprehensions, as tyros engaged in the same pursuit. Return to Original English Version

sullen /ˈsʌlən/ — sombrio e mal-humorado. She was the living spirit of love to soften and attract: I might have become sullen in my study, rough through the ardour of my nature, but that she was there to subdue me to a semblance of her own gentleness. Return to Original English Version

superstition /ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃən/ — superstição. I do not ever remember to have trembled at a tale of superstition, or to have feared the apparition of a spirit. Return to Original English Version

sustenance /ˈsʌstənəns/ — sustento; alimento. Beaufort had saved but a very small sum of money from the wreck of his fortunes; but it was sufficient to provide him with sustenance for some months, and in the meantime he hoped to procure some respectable employment in a merchant’s house. Return to Original English Version

tainted /ˈteɪntɪd/ — contaminado; manchado. I feel exquisite pleasure in dwelling on the recollections of childhood, before misfortune had tainted my mind, and changed its bright visions of extensive usefulness into gloomy and narrow reflections upon self. Return to Original English Version

tempest /ˈtempɪst/ — tempestade violenta; borrasca. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. Return to Original English Version

thence /ðɛns/ — dali; a partir de lá. My internal being was in a state of insurrection and turmoil; I felt that order would thence arise, but I had no power to produce it. Return to Original English Version

thenceforth /ˌðensˈfɔːrθ/ — daí em diante. I revolved these circumstances in my mind, and determined thenceforth to apply myself more particularly to those branches of natural philosophy which relate to physiology. Return to Original English Version

thunders /ˈθʌndərz/ — trovões. They have acquired new and almost unlimited powers; they can command the thunders of heaven, mimic the earthquake, and even mock the invisible world with its own shadows.” Return to Original English Version

tinged /tɪndʒd/ — tingido; marcado por. His gentleness was never tinged by dogmatism; and his instructions were given with an air of frankness and good nature, that banished every idea of pedantry. Return to Original English Version

tingle /ˈtɪŋɡəl/ — formigar. It was not joy only that possessed me; I felt my flesh tingle with excess of sensitiveness, and my pulse beat rapidly. Return to Original English Version

toil /tɔɪl/ — labuta; lida; trabalhar duro. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? Return to Original English Version

toils /tɔɪlz/ — labuta; redes de caça; trabalha duro. After so much time spent in painful labour, to arrive at once at the summit of my desires, was the most gratifying consummation of my toils. Return to Original English Version

tormenting /tɔːrˈmentɪŋ/ — atormentando. Her victory was announced by an unusual tranquillity and gladness of soul, which followed the relinquishing of my ancient and latterly tormenting studies. Return to Original English Version

torrent /ˈtɔːrənt/ — torrente; enxurrada. Besides, in drawing the picture of my early days, I also record those events which led, by insensible steps, to my after tale of misery: for when I would account to myself for the birth of that passion, which afterwards ruled my destiny, I find it arise, like a mountain river, from ignoble and almost forgotten sources; but, swelling as it proceeded, it became the torrent which, in its course, has swept away all my hopes and joys. Return to Original English Version

trance /træns/ — transe. It was indeed but a passing trance, that only made me feel with renewed acuteness so soon as, the unnatural stimulus ceasing to operate, I had returned to my old habits. Return to Original English Version

tranquillity /træŋˈkwɪləti/ — tranquilidade. Her health, and even the tranquillity of her hitherto constant spirit, had been shaken by what she had gone through. Return to Original English Version

transitory /ˈtrænsətɔːri/ — transitório. A human being in perfection ought always to preserve a calm and peaceful mind, and never to allow passion or a transitory desire to disturb his tranquillity. Return to Original English Version

transmuted /trænsˈmjuːtɪd/ — transmutado. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted, and that the elixir of life is a chimera. Return to Original English Version

traversed /trəˈvɜːrst/ — atravessou; percorreu. I traversed the streets, without any clear conception of where I was, or what I was doing. Return to Original English Version

traversing /trəˈvɜːrsɪŋ/ — atravessando; percorrendo. Unable to endure the aspect of the being I had created, I rushed out of the room, and continued a long time traversing my bedchamber, unable to compose my mind to sleep. Return to Original English Version

treading /ˈtredɪŋ/ — pisando; caminhando sobre. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation. Return to Original English Version

triumphed /ˈtraɪəmft/ — triunfou. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

truest /ˈtruːəst/ — o mais verdadeiro. My father loved Beaufort with the truest friendship, and was deeply grieved by his retreat in these unfortunate circumstances. Return to Original English Version

tumult /ˈtuːmʌlt/ — tumulto; alvoroço. At length lassitude succeeded to the tumult I had before endured; and I threw myself on the bed in my clothes, endeavouring to seek a few moments of forgetfulness. Return to Original English Version

tyrants /ˈtaɪrənts/ — tiranos. We felt that they were not the tyrants to rule our lot according to their caprice, but the agents and creators of all the many delights which we enjoyed. Return to Original English Version

tyros /ˈtaɪroʊz/ — novatos; principiantes. Those of his successors in each branch of natural philosophy with whom I was acquainted, appeared even to my boy’s apprehensions, as tyros engaged in the same pursuit. Return to Original English Version

unacquainted /ˌʌnəˈkweɪntɪd/ — que não conhece; não familiarizado. Before this I was not unacquainted with the more obvious laws of electricity. Return to Original English Version

unadept /ˌʌnəˈdɛpt/ — inexperiente; pessoa sem habilidade. And thus for a time I was occupied by exploded systems, mingling, like an unadept, a thousand contradictory theories, and floundering desperately in a very slough of multifarious knowledge, guided by an ardent imagination and childish reasoning, till an accident again changed the current of my ideas. Return to Original English Version

unbending /ʌnˈbendɪŋ/ — inflexível; rígido; intransigente. This man, whose name was Beaufort, was of a proud and unbending disposition, and could not bear to live in poverty and oblivion in the same country where he had formerly been distinguished for his rank and magnificence. Return to Original English Version

uncouth /ʌnˈkuːθ/ — rude; grosseiro. He was an uncouth man, but deeply imbued in the secrets of his science. Return to Original English Version

undivided /ˌʌndɪˈvaɪdɪd/ — indiviso; total. Under the guidance of my new preceptors, I entered with the greatest diligence into the search of the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life; but the latter soon obtained my undivided attention. Return to Original English Version

unexplored /ˌʌnɪkˈsplɔːrd/ — inexplorado. Sir Isaac Newton is said to have avowed that he felt like a child picking up shells beside the great and unexplored ocean of truth. Return to Original English Version

unfitness /ʌnˈfɪtnəs/ — inaptidão; inadequação. I afterwards learned that, knowing my father’s advanced age, and unfitness for so long a journey, and how wretched my sickness would make Elizabeth, he spared them this grief by concealing the extent of my disorder. Return to Original English Version

unfitted /ʌnˈfɪtɪd/ — inapto; não preparado. I loved my brothers, Elizabeth, and Clerval; these were “old familiar faces;” but I believed myself totally unfitted for the company of strangers. Return to Original English Version

unfold /ʌnˈfoʊld/ — desdobrar. So much has been done, exclaimed the soul of Frankenstein - more, far more, will I achieve: treading in the steps already marked, I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation. Return to Original English Version

unfolded /ʌnˈfoʊldɪd/ — desdobrou; abriu. Curiosity, earnest research to learn the hidden laws of nature, gladness akin to rapture, as they were unfolded to me, are among the earliest sensations I can remember. Return to Original English Version

unhallowed /ʌnˈhæloʊd/ — não consagrado; profano. Who shall conceive the horrors of my secret toil, as I dabbled among the unhallowed damps of the grave, or tortured the living animal to animate the lifeless clay? Return to Original English Version

unjust /ʌnˈdʒʌst/ — injusto. I then thought that my father would be unjust if he ascribed my neglect to vice, or faultiness on my part; but I am now convinced that he was justified in conceiving that I should not be altogether free from blame. Return to Original English Version

unrelaxed /ˌʌnrɪˈlækst/ — tenso; não relaxado. One secret which I alone possessed was the hope to which I had dedicated myself; and the moon gazed on my midnight labours, while, with unrelaxed and breathless eagerness, I pursued nature to her hiding-places. Return to Original English Version

unremitting /ˌʌnrɪˈmɪtɪŋ/ — incansável; ininterrupto. These thoughts supported my spirits, while I pursued my undertaking with unremitting ardour. Return to Original English Version

unrestrained /ˌʌnrɪˈstreɪnd/ — desenfreado; sem freios. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him. Return to Original English Version

untaught /ʌnˈtɔːt/ — não instruído. The untaught peasant beheld the elements around him, and was acquainted with their practical uses. Return to Original English Version

unwearied /ʌnˈwɪrid/ — incansável; infatigável. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

unwholesome /ʌnˈhoʊlsəm/ — nocivo; insalubre. But my enthusiasm was checked by my anxiety, and I appeared rather like one doomed by slavery to toil in the mines, or any other unwholesome trade, than an artist occupied by his favourite employment. Return to Original English Version

unworthiness /ʌnˈwɜrðinəs/ — indignidade; falta de mérito. Perhaps during former years he had suffered from the late-discovered unworthiness of one beloved, and so was disposed to set a greater value on tried worth. Return to Original English Version

vagrants /ˈveɪɡrənts/ — vagabundos; andarilhos. The four others were dark-eyed, hardy little vagrants; this child was thin, and very fair. Return to Original English Version

vehement /ˈviːəmənt/ — veemente. My temper was sometimes violent, and my passions vehement; but by some law in my temperature they were turned, not towards childish pursuits, but to an eager desire to learn, and not to learn all things indiscriminately. Return to Original English Version

veiled /veɪld/ — velada; coberta. She indeed veiled her grief, and strove to act the comforter to us all. Return to Original English Version

vicar /ˈvɪkər/ — vigário; pároco. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

wakefield /ˈweɪkfiːld/ — Wakefield. “You may easily believe,” said he, “how great was the difficulty to persuade my father that all necessary knowledge was not comprised in the noble art of bookkeeping; and, indeed, I believe I left him incredulous to the last, for his constant answer to my unwearied entreaties was the same as that of the Dutch schoolmaster in The Vicar of Wakefield: - ‘I have ten thousand florins a year without Greek, I eat heartily without Greek.’ But his affection for me at length overcame his dislike of learning, and he has permitted me to undertake a voyage of discovery to the land of knowledge.” Return to Original English Version

watchful /ˈwɑːtʃfəl/ — vigilante; atento. She attended her sick bed - her watchful attentions triumphed over the malignity of the distemper - Elizabeth was saved, but the consequences of this imprudence were fatal to her preserver. Return to Original English Version

weaken /ˈwiːkən/ — enfraquecer. If the study to which you apply yourself has a tendency to weaken your affections, and to destroy your taste for those simple pleasures in which no alloy can possibly mix, then that study is certainly unlawful, that is to say, not befitting the human mind. Return to Original English Version

whence /wɛns/ — de onde; donde. Whence, I often asked myself, did the principle of life proceed? Return to Original English Version

whiteness /ˈwaɪtnəs/ — brancura; alvura. His yellow skin scarcely covered the work of muscles and arteries beneath; his hair was of a lustrous black, and flowing; his teeth of a pearly whiteness; but these luxuriances only formed a more horrid contrast with his watery eyes, that seemed almost of the same colour as the dun white sockets in which they were set, his shrivelled complexion and straight black lips. Return to Original English Version

whither /ˈwɪðər/ — para onde; aonde. In the university, whither I was going, I must form my own friends, and be my own protector. Return to Original English Version

wildness /ˈwaɪldnəs/ — selvageria; descontrole. Clerval at first attributed my unusual spirits to joy on his arrival; but when he observed me more attentively, he saw a wildness in my eyes for which he could not account; and my loud, unrestrained, heartless laughter, frightened and astonished him. Return to Original English Version

withered /ˈwɪðərd/ — murchou; secou. The leaves of that year had withered before my work drew near to a close; and now every day showed me more plainly how well I had succeeded. Return to Original English Version

wondrous /ˈwʌndrəs/ — prodigioso; maravilhoso. She busied herself with following the aerial creations of the poets; and in the majestic and wondrous scenes which surrounded our Swiss home - the sublime shapes of the mountains; the changes of the seasons; tempest and calm; the silence of winter, and the life and turbulence of our Alpine summers - she found ample scope for admiration and delight. Return to Original English Version

wrapt /ræpt/ — absorto (grafia antiga). A mind of moderate capacity, which closely pursues one study, must infallibly arrive at great proficiency in that study; and I, who continually sought the attainment of one object of pursuit, and was solely wrapt up in this, improved so rapidly, that, at the end of two years, I made some discoveries in the improvement of some chemical instruments, which procured me great esteem and admiration at the university. Return to Original English Version

wretched /ˈretʃɪd/ — miserável; desgraçado; péssimo. I afterwards learned that, knowing my father’s advanced age, and unfitness for so long a journey, and how wretched my sickness would make Elizabeth, he spared them this grief by concealing the extent of my disorder. Return to Original English Version

wretchedly /ˈretʃɪdli/ — miseravelmente; deploravelmente. I passed the night wretchedly. Return to Original English Version

wretchedness /ˈretʃɪdnəs/ — desgraça; miséria. Having paid his debts, therefore, in the most honourable manner, he retreated with his daughter to the town of Lucerne, where he lived unknown and in wretchedness. Return to Original English Version

yesternight's /ˈjɛstərˌnaɪts/ — de ontem à noite. I awoke, and my yesternight’s thoughts were as a dream. Return to Original English Version

zeal /ziːl/ — zelo; fervor. She looked steadily on life, and assumed its duties with courage and zeal. Return to Original English Version