Student Question
What makes Melanie Hamilton special in Gone with the Wind?
Quick answer:
Melanie Hamilton in Gone with the Wind is special because she embodies the qualities that Scarlett O'Hara lacks: meekness, virtue, and charity. She consistently defends Scarlett, even when unaware of Scarlett's desire for her husband, Ashley. Despite hardships, Melanie remains optimistic and supportive, influencing others positively. Her strength and nurturing nature make her a pillar for characters like Rhett Butler and Ashley Wilkes, and even Scarlett eventually acknowledges Melanie's unwavering love and support.
A foil to Scarlett O'Hara, Melanie Hamilton Wilkes possesses all the saintly qualities that Scarlett so lacks. Always thinking the best of everyone, Melanie is a paragon of virtue in her meekness and charitableness. She constantly defends Scarlett against others' maligning comments, little knowing that Scarlett desires her husband Ashley. Even when Scarlett marries Frank Kennedy who is the fiance of her sister Suellen, Melanie defends her against the castigations of many others.
Whereas Scarlett's motivations are selfish as she plans for herself and for the restoration of Tara, Melanie always thinks of others first. Even when she struggles in childbirth as Atlanta burns, Melanie instructs Scarlett on how much Rhett Butler loves her. Ironically, she asks Scarlett also to look out for her husband, Ashley, whom Scarlett has long coveted. All the while Scarlett is petulant, thinking of how she could have fled Atlanta were it not for Melanie.
Throughout the novel, little Melanie is a bulwark of strength and calm for the other characters. Always optimistic and charitable, she brings out the best in everyone else. Without her strength, Rhett Butler and Ashley Wilkes are defeated. Even Scarlett realizes that Melanie has been the only one who has truly loved and supported her. Melanie is the quintessential woman, loving and supportive and nurturing.
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