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Emily of New Moon · Theme

Individuality vs. Conformity

How Emily of New Moon develops Individuality vs. Conformity.

Emily's artistic nature and independent spirit constantly clash with the rigid expectations of her aunts and the community, who demand she suppress her writing and unconventional behavior.

Where it surfaces

  • A Hop Out of Kin

    Emily resists the Murrays' expectations and Ellen's advice, asserting her own identity and values.

  • Diamond Cut Diamond

    Emily's defiance in protecting her creative work and her refusal to conform to Aunt Elizabeth's expectations underscore the conflict between her unique spirit and the Murray family's rigid standards.

  • Trial by Fire

    Emily's refusal to be cowed by the school's hostility and her proud declaration of writing poetry exemplify her struggle to maintain her unique identity against the pressure to conform.

  • X: Growing Pains

    Emily rebels against Aunt Elizabeth's demand to cut her hair and against the expectation to wear boots and stockings, asserting her individuality.

  • XIII: Daughter of Eve

    Emily's desire for Lofty John's apples over her own reflects her rebellious nature against family traditions and expectations.

  • Fancy Fed

    Emily's defiance of Aunt Elizabeth to keep the kitten and her unique ability to summon the Murray look underscore her struggle to assert her own will against authority.

  • XV: Various Tragedies

    Perry's bold, unconventional behavior contrasts with Aunt Elizabeth's strict expectations, and Emily navigates her own creative ambitions against societal norms.

  • Check for Miss Brownell

    Emily's defiance in writing poetry instead of doing sums, and her refusal to apologize fully, underscore her struggle against the conformist expectations of school and family.

  • Romantic but Not Comfortable

    Emily defies Aunt Elizabeth by cutting her own bang and reading forbidden books, asserting her personal desires against family rules.

  • A Weaver of Dreams

    Emily resists Aunt Ruth's demand to be a 'different girl' and insists on being herself, while Aunt Elizabeth's refusal to let her study for the Entrance reflects societal pressures on girls.

  • XXIX: Sacrilege

    Emily insists on her need to write stories despite Aunt Elizabeth's prohibition, asserting her creative individuality against family expectations.