Discussion Topic

The evolution of Charles Wallace's relationship with his siblings in A Wrinkle in Time

Summary:

In A Wrinkle in Time, Charles Wallace's relationship with his siblings evolves from a protective, almost parental role to one of mutual support and understanding. Initially, he is the guiding force, particularly for Meg, but as the story progresses, they learn to rely on each other’s strengths to overcome their challenges.

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How does Charles Wallace's relationship with Meg evolve in A Wrinkle in Time?

Charles Wallace is Meg’s younger brother, not yet in school. Meg is in junior high, but they treat each other as if they are the same age. Charles Wallace speaks at a more advanced level, though he does not talk around other people outside the family. When Charles Wallace meets the three Mrs. W's, he leads Meg (and eventually Calvin) into the adventure. However, once they leave earth, Charles Wallace becomes even more commanding, making all of the decisions even though Meg objects. Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which look to him as one who knows more about the situation than do Meg and Calvin. His insight is deeper than theirs. On Camazotz, he takes complete control, confident that he knows what to do. The Mrs. W's had warned him about this, but he decides that he is strong enough to let IT take over his mind. The relationship between Charles Wallace and Meg then becomes as if there is no relationship at all. Meg feels that her beloved brother is gone. It is only through her love that he is released from IT and able to escape with Meg, Mr. Murry, and Calvin. Rather than rescuing Meg, Charles Wallace is thus rescued by her.

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Describe Charles Wallace's relationship with his siblings in A Wrinkle in Time.

Charles Wallace is the youngest member of the Murry family and is depicted as a child prodigy, who is extremely intelligent and articulate. Charles Wallace is friendly with all of his siblings but is particularly close to his older sister, Meg Murry. Meg is depicted as an outcast, who struggles to control her emotions and fit in at school. Charles Wallace also has the unique ability to read Meg's mind and can understand exactly what she is thinking. In the first chapter of the novel, the severe storm wakes Meg up in the middle of the night and Charles Wallace is waiting for her in the kitchen. Charles Wallace also admits to Meg that he can read Sandy and Davy's mind too if he wants but chooses to focus on Meg and their mother. Charles Wallace travels to the planet Camazotz with his sister to initially save their father but is captured by IT. Meg is then forced to return to Camazotz and save her younger brother. Throughout the course of their adventure, Meg becomes closer to her younger brother and embraces the aspects of her personality that make her different.

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