Fatherhood and Responsibility

Where it surfaces

• III: The Beginning of Trouble

  Nathaniel's newfound tenderness and protective instincts toward Ranulph contrast with his earlier detachment.

• Endymion Leer Prescribes for Ranulph

  Nathaniel's newfound love for Ranulph forces him to confront the disgrace and take action, even though he is tempted to treat reality as a 'plastic toy.'

• Ranulph Goes to the Widow Gibberty’s Farm

  Master Nathaniel's struggle to balance his protective instincts with Ranulph's need for freedom, ultimately letting him go despite his own fears.

• Endymion Leer Looks Frightened, and a Breach Is Made in an Old Friendship

  Both Ambrose and Nathaniel are confronted with their failures as fathers, with Ambrose accusing Nathaniel of negligence and hypocrisy.

• XI: A Stronger Antidote Than Reason

  Nathaniel's resolve to make Dorimare safe for Ranulph drives his political and personal actions.

• XIV: Dead in the Eye of the Law

  Nathaniel frames his plea in terms of fathers and citizens, arguing that the menace must be uprooted to bequeath security to children.

• XVII: The World-in-Law

  Nathaniel references his father Josiah's writings and portrait, pondering if he also fled to the world-in-law.

• XXIV: Belling the Cat

  Master Nathaniel's determination to follow his son to Fairyland, even at great personal risk, underscores the depth of his paternal love and sense of duty.

• XXVII: The Fair in the Elfin Marches

  Nathaniel's quest to find Ranulph drives him into the Elfin Marches, showing his paternal devotion.

• XXIX: A Message Comes to Hazel and the First Swallow to Dame Marigold

  Master Nathaniel, though presumed dead, is shown as a protector who rescues the Crabapple Blossoms, including his daughter Prunella, fulfilling his paternal role even from beyond the Debatable Hills.