In this chapter, Victor Frankenstein returns home to Geneva after receiving the devastating news of his younger brother William's murder. Overwhelmed by grief and guilt, Victor is haunted by the thought that his own creation, the creature, is responsible for the death.

The chapter opens with Victor's journey back home, where he reflects on his past happiness and the innocence of his family. Upon arrival, he is met with sorrow as the family mourns the loss of William. The atmosphere is heavy with despair, and Victor feels an acute sense of responsibility for the tragedy that has unfolded. His internal turmoil is exacerbated by the knowledge that he, in his pursuit of knowledge and ambition, has brought forth a being that has now caused such personal devastation.

During the funeral for William, a somber procession takes place where family and friends gather to pay their respects. Among those present is Justine Moritz, a close family friend and servant, who is described as kind and gentle. However, the mood shifts dramatically when Justine is accused of the murder. The accusation stems from the discovery of a locket that belonged to William, which was found in Justine’s possession. Despite her protests of innocence, the evidence against her seems damning, and the local authorities are quick to judge.

Victor watches in horror as Justine is put on trial. He is deeply tormented by the unfolding events, feeling a profound sense of guilt for creating the creature that he believes is the true culprit behind William's death. He recalls the moment when he first laid eyes on the creature and how he abandoned it out of fear and disgust. This sense of abandonment now weighs heavily on his conscience, as he knows that his inaction has led to the suffering of innocent people.

As the trial progresses, Justine's defense fails, and she is found guilty despite her innocence. The horror of the situation culminates when she is executed, leaving Victor consumed by guilt and despair. He realizes that his ambition and thirst for knowledge have not only cost him his brother but have also led to the wrongful death of an innocent woman. This chapter serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the consequences of Victor's actions and the profound emotional turmoil he experiences as he grapples with his responsibility for the creature's actions and the resultant tragedies.

Ultimately, Chapter 7 deepens the themes of guilt and responsibility that permeate the novel. Victor's internal struggle reflects the broader moral implications of creation and the dangers of unchecked ambition, setting the stage for the ensuing chaos that the creature will wreak in Victor's life.