What major event occurs in Frankenstein's life when he is 17 years old

Elizabeth contracts scarlet fever and nearly dies

he boards a ship for America and almost drowns when it sinks

his younger brother leaves home to join the German army

his father abandoned the family and left them penny less

The correct option is: Elizabeth contracts scarlet fever and nearly dies.

Explanation:

When Frankenstein was 17 years old he had to face two difficult situations. On one hand his mother got extremely ill. She contracted scarlet fever and as a result she died. On the other hand, at the same time, he was sent away to a college in Germany.