A Lantern In Her Hand is a novel written by Bess Streeter Aldrich, first published in 1928. The book tells the story of Abbie Deal, a young woman who travels to the American Midwest with her family in the late 19th century. The novel is a classic tale of pioneer life, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Historical Context of A Lantern In Her Hand
The late 19th century was a time of significant change and growth in the United States. The country was expanding westward, and many families were leaving their homes in the East to settle in the Midwest and beyond. This period of American history is often referred to as the “pioneer era,” and it was marked by hardship, struggle, and perseverance. A Lantern In Her Hand is set against this backdrop, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who settled the American frontier.
The Main Characters of A Lantern In Her Hand
Abbie Deal is the protagonist of the novel, a strong-willed and determined young woman who is not afraid to speak her mind. She is joined on her journey by her family, including her parents and siblings, as well as a cast of supporting characters who add depth and complexity to the story. Throughout the book, Abbie faces numerous challenges, from the difficulties of pioneer life to the complexities of romance and relationships.
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Abbie Deal | The protagonist of the novel, a strong-willed and determined young woman |
| Martin Deal | Abbie's father, a kind and gentle man who is determined to provide for his family |
| Mother Deal | Abbie's mother, a wise and compassionate woman who is the glue that holds the family together |
The Symbolism of the Lantern
The lantern of the title is a symbol of hope and guidance, representing the light that Abbie and her family use to navigate the darkness of the frontier. The lantern is also a symbol of Abbie’s own inner light, representing her courage, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. Throughout the novel, the lantern is used as a metaphor for the ways in which people find their way through difficult times, and the ways in which they use their inner resources to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
The Themes of A Lantern In Her Hand
A Lantern In Her Hand explores a number of themes that are relevant to the pioneer era, including the importance of family, community, and perseverance. The novel also touches on themes of love, loss, and identity, as Abbie navigates the challenges of growing up and finding her place in the world. Through Abbie’s story, Aldrich offers a nuanced and compassionate portrayal of life on the American frontier, highlighting the ways in which people came together to support one another and build new lives in the wilderness.
- Family and community
- Perseverance and resilience
- Love and loss
- Identity and self-discovery
What is the historical context of A Lantern In Her Hand?
+A Lantern In Her Hand is set in the late 19th century, during the pioneer era in the United States. The novel explores the challenges and opportunities of this period, including the expansion of the country westward and the settlement of the American frontier.
Who is the protagonist of A Lantern In Her Hand?
+The protagonist of A Lantern In Her Hand is Abbie Deal, a strong-willed and determined young woman who travels to the American Midwest with her family. Abbie is a complex and nuanced character, and her story is at the heart of the novel.
What is the symbolism of the lantern in A Lantern In Her Hand?
+The lantern of the title is a symbol of hope and guidance, representing the light that Abbie and her family use to navigate the darkness of the frontier. The lantern is also a symbol of Abbie’s own inner light, representing her courage, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.
