Just William · Question
How does Just William develop the theme of Romance and Infatuation?
Answer
Just William by Richmal Crompton develops Romance and Infatuation across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Romantic love is treated comically through characters like Robert, Ethel, and William's own crushes, often involving absurd schemes (e.g., white rats) and misunderstandings.
Robert's infatuation with Miss Cannon is comically thwarted by William's innocent intrusions, while Miss Cannon herself seems more charmed by William than by Robert.
William's sudden crush on Miss Drew drives his actions, from stealing flowers to feigning interest in lessons.
Mr. French's infatuation with Ethel drives him to bribe William and endure the rat disasters.
Evidence in the book
- William the Intruder
Robert's infatuation with Miss Cannon is comically thwarted by William's innocent intrusions, while Miss Cannon herself seems more charmed by William than by Robert.
- IV: The Fall of the Idol
William's sudden crush on Miss Drew drives his actions, from stealing flowers to feigning interest in lessons.
- The Best Laid Plans
Mr. French's infatuation with Ethel drives him to bribe William and endure the rat disasters.
- I
Mr. French's infatuation with Ethel drives the plot, leading to his bribery of William.
