Emily of New Moon · Question
How does Emily of New Moon develop the theme of Family and Belonging?
Answer
Emily of New Moon by L. M. Montgomery develops Family and Belonging across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Emily is taken in by her Murray relatives, and the story explores her complex relationships with them, the tension between duty and love, and her search for a true home.
The chapter explores the Murray family's pride, their rejection of Douglas, and the question of where Emily will belong after her father's death.
The Murray relatives gather to decide Emily's fate, highlighting her precarious place within the family and her longing for love.
The Murray family conclave determines Emily's future, highlighting her uncertain place among them.
Evidence in the book
- A Watch in the Night
The chapter explores the Murray family's pride, their rejection of Douglas, and the question of where Emily will belong after her father's death.
- A Hop Out of Kin
The Murray relatives gather to decide Emily's fate, highlighting her precarious place within the family and her longing for love.
- IV: A Family Conclave
The Murray family conclave determines Emily's future, highlighting her uncertain place among them.
- Diamond Cut Diamond
The chapter centers on Emily's fate being decided by her Murray relatives, highlighting her struggle to find a place within a family that views her as a duty rather than a beloved member.
- VI: New Moon
Emily struggles to find her place at New Moon, caught between Aunt Elizabeth's coldness and Cousin Jimmy's warmth.
- The Book of Yesterday
Emily learns about her Murray ancestors and the family burying-ground, deepening her sense of belonging to New Moon.
- XI: Ilse
Emily's punishment by Aunt Elizabeth and the kindness of Aunt Laura highlight the complex dynamics of her new family at New Moon.
- The Tansy Patch
Emily's letters to her father show her longing for connection, while Mrs. Kent's possessive love for Teddy and Aunt Elizabeth's coldness contrast different family dynamics.
