In Winter's Bone, one of the most notable and compelling juxtapositions happens between Ree and her mom Connie. Looking at Ree and Connie side by side, we notice how Ree, though the daughter, has to assume many of the responsibilities of the mother. It's Ree who takes care of Connie instead of the other way around. It's Ree who helps dress Connie.

This contrast—or juxtaposition—tells us a lot about Ree's life. It tells us why she's so resilient, independent, and tough. She doesn’t seem to have a choice. If she doesn't look out for herself and her two brothers, who will?

Ree's toughness is underscored when she's juxtaposed with the men she encounters. Most of the men don't seem too interested in helping Ree find her father. Her uncle Teardrop tries to discourage her from looking. Little Arthur seems more interested in seducing Ree, and Thump Milton doesn't even want to talk to her.

We might argue that Daniel Woodrell juxtaposed Ree with these timid, content men to help highlight Ree's singularity and conviction. Unlike these men, Ree is not fine with letting her father's whereabouts remain a mystery. She wants to find where he is.

Of course, Woodrell can't physically juxtapose Ree with her father since, as we learn, he's dead. Yet the lack of juxtaposition might tell us more about Ree. Not only does she assume the duties typically associated with mothers, she also undertakes the duties often associated with fathers. Who taught her brothers how to use a gun? Ree did.