Themes: Continuity and Change
Another theme throughout the novel is how the past lingers, and how often it guides, shapes, or interferes with the present and even the future. Hannah Tupper provides one of the clearest examples of this. She herself is, of course, quite old and is a living remnant of another age. However, the presence of her beloved but departed husband is forever returning—in memory, in reference, or in the slips of focus that Hannah is prone to. In a similar fashion, Kit’s memory of her grandfather guides and at times guards her; when she sees something that reminds her of him, she is immediately happy. The past hangs on in other ways for most of the characters too. The Wood family is forever haunted by their lost son and brother, and Rachel longs for her lost sister and the England of her youth. Even the emerging political rebellion is in its way conservative and reactionary; firebrands like Matthew Wood do not think of themselves as trying to create something new. Instead, they feel they are fighting for their established rights as articulated in the colony’s charter.
Expert Q&A
What do Matthew Wood, Reverend Gershom, and William Ashby's views on King James suggest about the Wethersfield community in The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
The differing views of Matthew Wood, Reverend Gershom, and William Ashby on King James highlight the divided loyalties within the Wethersfield community. Wood opposes the King's control, valuing colonial independence, while Gershom supports royal authority. Ashby initially sides with the King but eventually aligns with colonial interests. This reflects a broader colonial debate over governance and foreshadows the Revolutionary War. Their perspectives illustrate the struggle between allegiance to the crown and the desire for self-governance.
What are three significant ways Kit Tyler changes throughout The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
How do political episodes and character responses impact the plot in chapter 6 of The Witch of Blackbird Pond?
In Chapter 6, political tensions impact the plot during a dinner with Reverend Gershom Bulkeley and John Holbrook at the Wood family home. The atmosphere is tense due to differing political views between Gershom, a Royalist, and Uncle Matthew, who is critical of the king's policies. Their debate over Governor Andros and the charter highlights broader conflicts in the community, emphasizing the political backdrop against Kit's personal struggles.
How do churchgoers react to Kit in The Witch of Blackbird Pond? Why did they expect someone different?
William Ashby's change in political views in The Witch of Blackbird Pond
William Ashby initially supports the strict Puritan governance in The Witch of Blackbird Pond, but his views change as he becomes more aware of the harshness and injustices of their rule. This shift is influenced by his interactions with Kit and witnessing the unfair treatment of others, leading him to adopt a more compassionate and open-minded perspective.
Kit and Nat's differing perceptions of slavery in The Witch of Blackbird Pond
Kit and Nat have contrasting views on slavery in The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Kit, coming from a wealthy background in Barbados, initially sees slavery as a norm. In contrast, Nat, raised in the more egalitarian New England, views slavery negatively and believes in freedom for all individuals.
Prudence's character development and the significance of her name in The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
Prudence's character development in The Witch of Blackbird Pond showcases her transformation from a timid, neglected girl to a confident and educated individual, largely due to Kit's influence. Her name, Prudence, signifies wisdom and careful judgment, reflecting her growth and the positive changes in her life as she learns to read and write, gaining self-assurance and independence.
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