Aunt Bessie Smail

IV

Referred to as Mrs. Kennicott; she is delicate, bred, and full of wonder, and she reassures Carol about her marriage.

II

Carol spends a week with Kennicott's mother while he fishes.

II

Intrudes on Carol's privacy, offers unsolicited advice, and criticizes her housekeeping, cooking, and religious attendance.

III

Carries gossip about the Bjornstams to Carol, adding to her embarrassment.

Chapter VIII

Referenced as one of those who tell Carol she should be satisfied with her home and son.

Chapter III

Aunt Bessie disapproves of Carol's decision to sleep separately, viewing it as a threat to marital norms.

IV

Visits to advise on housekeeping and later joins in pressuring Carol toward a practical, unadorned house.

II

Accompanies Mrs. Bogart and scolds Carol for her 'wicked' retort.

Chapter III

Aunt Bessie fusses over trivial matters and joins in the gossip about Valborg, criticizing his behavior in church and reinforcing the town's judgmental attitudes.

I

Observes Carol and Erik from her window with Mrs. Bogart, their stares described as those of automatons.

III

Aunt Bessie tries to pry into Carol's affairs and hints at Kennicott's possible infidelity.

Chapter IV

Aunt Bessie attempts to catechize Carol about Erik's disappearance, but is silenced by Kennicott's sharp rebuke.

V

Takes care of Hugh during Carol's absence.

II

Visits Carol, hinting that she should settle down and be satisfied.

II

Wails and comments extensively about Hugh going with Carol.

I

Referenced in Carol's thoughts about domesticity and the fussing she associates with her.

IV

Offers well-meaning but intrusive gestures, such as bringing wild-grape jelly, and Carol recognizes the tragedy of old age in her need to be needed.