Chapter 8 Notes

Setting and Context

• The trial begins at 11:00 AM.
• The narrator's family, including his father, are present as witnesses.
• The narrator is tormented by the possibility that his past actions could lead to the death of two innocent people.

Justine's Demeanor and Trial

• Justine Moritz is calm and composed, dressed in mourning.
• Faces public execration despite her beauty and past good character.
• Her calmness is seen as constrained, which had previously been misinterpreted as guilt.
• She is accused of murdering the child William.

Prosecution and Evidence

• Justine was seen near the murder scene on the night of the crime.
• She gave a confused response to a market woman when questioned.
• A picture belonging to the child was found in her pocket.

Justine's Defense

• Justine explains her whereabouts on the night of the murder.
• Claims innocence and attributes confusion to lack of sleep and worry.
• Unable to explain how the picture was placed in her pocket.
• She requests character witnesses.

Character Witnesses

• Several witnesses speak positively about Justine’s character.
• Elizabeth, who was like a sister to the murdered child, speaks passionately in defense of Justine's character.
• The public responds more to Elizabeth’s passion than to Justine's innocence.

Verdict and Aftermath

• Justine is condemned by the court, despite evidence being largely circumstantial.
• Elizabeth is devastated by the outcome.
• Justine confesses to the crime, but later reveals she did so under pressure from her confessor, seeking absolution.
• Justine maintains her innocence to Elizabeth and the narrator.

Narrator's Torment

• The narrator, believed to be Victor, is tormented by guilt, believing his actions indirectly led to the deaths.
• Experiences deep emotional anguish and remorse.
• Attempts to confess and take responsibility are stifled by fear of being seen as mad.

Execution and Reflection

• Justine is executed despite her innocence.
• The narrator is left with a profound sense of guilt, believing his scientific pursuits have caused the deaths and despair of loved ones.
• The family, particularly Elizabeth, is deeply grieved.

Key Themes

• Injustice: Highlighted by the wrongful conviction of Justine.
• Guilt and Responsibility: The narrator's overwhelming guilt and moral responsibility.
• Isolation and Despair: Justine's isolation in her final moments and the narrator's inner torment.
• Impact of Science and Knowledge: The narrator's pursuits leading to unintended destructive consequences.