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The Witch of Blackbird Pond

by Elizabeth George Speare

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Student Question

What is an important quote said by Prudence in "The Witch of Blackbird Pond"?

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An important quote by Prudence in "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" is when she defends herself in court by stating, "I can read the Bible" (Chapter 19). This statement refutes accusations of witchcraft and demonstrates her literacy and courage. Another significant moment is her observation about Hannah Tupper, "I think Hannah is lonesome...don't you think sometime she must want somebody to answer back?" (Chapter 11), revealing her empathy and understanding.

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Prudence paints a clear picture of her position at home when she tells Kit,

"Pa wanted me to go to school, but Ma says I'm too stupid" (Chapter 11).

She also evidences a precocious kindness of spirit and an unusually keen ability to perceive and sympathize with the needs of others when she observes about the woman she has always been taught to fear,

"I'm going back the first chance I get. Not just because the horn is there. I think Hannah is lonesome. Of course, she has the cat to talk to, but don't you think sometime she must want somebody to answer back?" (Chapter 11).

In the courtroom, Prudence unequivocably counters her mother's hysterical accusation that Kit had been tutoring her in witchcraft by answering Dr. Buckley's question, "What can you read, child?" with the simple words,

"I can read the Bible" (Chapter 19).

Finally, the verse Prudence reads in the courtroom from the Bible sums up some of the largest themes of the narrative,

"Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wis-wisdom, and in-in-instruction, and understanding...The father of the right-righteous shall greatly rejoice; and he that begetteth a wish child shall have joy of him. Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice" (Chapter 19).

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