Compassion and Generosity

Where it surfaces

• With the Grandfather

  The grandfather provides for Heidi's needs—food, a bed, and a chair—showing quiet care and generosity.

• On the Pasture

  Heidi shares her large portion of bread and cheese with Peter, who is astonished by her kindness, and she asks him not to beat the goats.

• In the Grandmother’s Hut

  Heidi's deep empathy for the blind grandmother drives her to promise help, and the grandfather's repair of the hut exemplifies generous action.

• Two Visitors

  Heidi's promise to bring soft rolls for the grandmother reflects her innate kindness and concern for others, even as she is being taken away.

• VIII: Great Disturbances in the Sesemann House

  Heidi's hoarding of rolls for the blind grandmother and Clara's promise to provide more rolls demonstrate compassion and generosity.

• The Master of the House Hears of Strange Doings

  Mr. Sesemann shows compassion by listening to both sides and deciding to keep Heidi, despite Miss Rottenmeier's complaints.

• Up the Alp on a Summer Evening

  Heidi selflessly gives rolls to the blind grandmother and her hat to Brigida, showing her generous spirit.

• XIV: On Sunday When the Church Bells Ring

  Heidi's plan to use her money to buy fresh rolls daily for the blind grandmother demonstrates selfless generosity and care for the elderly.

• Preparations for a Journey

  Mr. Sesemann and Clara show compassion for the grieving doctor by sending him on the trip, and Clara generously packs gifts for Heidi and her family.

• A Guest on the Alp

  The doctor's visit and the gifts from Frankfurt demonstrate kindness and generosity, while Heidi's care for the grandmother and her gratitude toward the doctor highlight compassion.

• Winter in the Village

  Heidi shows deep concern for the grandmother's discomfort and loneliness, and shares her dinner with Peter.

• Winter Still Continues

  Heidi's determination to help Peter learn to read for his grandmother's sake, and the grandfather's hospitality in offering supper, reflect deep compassion.

• News from Distant Friends

  The Alm-Uncle offers to care for Clara during her stay, and Grandmama trusts him completely, showing mutual kindness and understanding.

• Of Further Events on the Alp

  Grandfather's attentive care for Clara and Grandmama's thoughtful gift of beds demonstrate kindness and generosity.

• Something Unexpected Happens

  Heidi's patient encouragement and Peter's reluctant help demonstrate compassion and generosity toward Clara.

• Parting to Meet Again

  Mrs. Sesemann sends warm covers and shawls to the grandmother, and Heidi's request for the bed shows her selfless care for others.