Lecture: Gates of Imagination - "The Mortal Immortal" by Mary Shelley

Introduction

• Presented by Gates of Imagination
• Reading by Arthur Lane
• Date: 16th of July, 1833

Key Points

Protagonist's Perspective

• The speaker claims to be 323 years old.
• Questions his own immortality frequently.
• Mentions a gray hair as a sign of decay, yet questions its significance.

Story of Cornelius Agrippa

• Cornelius Agrippa, a renowned alchemist, is central to the narrative.
• The protagonist was once his pupil.
• The protagonist was poor and in love with a girl named Bertha.

Incident with the Fiend

• An accident involving another scholar of Agrippa raising a fiend caused a scandal.
• All of Agrippa's scholars deserted him.

Relationship with Bertha

• Bertha was a childhood love; became an orphan and adopted by a wealthy lady.
• Despite her new status, Bertha stays true to the protagonist.
• She complains about his poverty, leading him to accept Agrippa’s offer.

Work with Agrippa

• The protagonist worked with Agrippa for a year, accumulating wealth.
• Bertha's coquetry and jealousy are a source of tension.
• Bertha’s protectress favors another suitor, Albert Hoffer.

The Potion Incident

• Cornelius tasks the protagonist to watch a potion.
• Protagonist drinks it, believing it cures love.
• Cornelius is unaware of the protagonist's action.

Effects of the Potion

• The potion gives the protagonist a night of bliss.
• He feels rejuvenated and plans to confront Bertha.
• Bertha chooses him over a life of luxury.

Life with Bertha

• Marries Bertha; leaves Agrippa's employ.
• Protagonist lives a happy life initially, but time reveals challenges.

Longevity and Isolation

• Protagonist doesn’t age; looks youthful against aging Bertha.
• Neighbors regard him with suspicion; called "Scholar bewitched."
• Bertha becomes suspicious and resentful.

Decision to Move

• They move to France to escape suspicion.
• Bertha tries to appear youthful; protagonist is saddened by her transformation.

Reflections on Immortality

• Protagonist questions whether he is truly immortal or just long-lived.
• Desires death due to isolation and endless life.
• Considers testing his immortality with a dangerous expedition.

Conclusion

• Plans to achieve fame or find release through his expedition.
• Ends with the notion of freeing his soul from mortal bounds.

Closing Remarks

• Encouragement to like and subscribe for more audiobooks.