Frankenstein
De Lacey
The blind cottager
A blind, gentle old man, once a French nobleman, who is the first and only human to speak kindly to the Creature.
Old De Lacey is an exiled French nobleman who lives in a humble country cottage with his son Felix and his daughter Agatha. He is blind, wise and musical, and says music brings light to the quietest evening. His family gathers around him with great love.
Because he cannot see, De Lacey cannot judge by appearances. He listens to a stranger's voice and decides by what he hears. That makes him the one person who treats the Creature as a person.
“Enter, friend. Though I am blind and cannot see your face, you are welcome to whatever humble cheer we have.”
In the story
Contains spoilers.
The Creature, who has secretly watched the family for months, chooses a moment when Felix, Agatha and Safie are out walking. He tells the old man that he is a traveler seeking rest. De Lacey welcomes him, tells him that to be friendless is unfortunate, and says the hearts of men are full of brotherly love and charity when unprejudiced.
The Creature falls to his knees and begs for protection, but Felix, Agatha and Safie return before De Lacey can answer. After Felix attacks the Creature, the family flees, leaving the cottage empty.
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