The Portent · Question
How does The Portent develop the theme of Fate and Destiny?
Answer
The Portent by George MacDonald develops Fate and Destiny across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The narrative is steeped in fatalism, from the prophetic 'clanking shoe' that heralds doom to the coincidental births of Duncan and Alice in the same month and year, suggesting that their union is preordained despite obstacles, tragedies, and the passage of time.
The supernatural visions imply a predetermined fate for the characters.
The death of the distant relation and the loss of the commission suggest a predetermined path for Duncan, steering him toward a different future.
The prophecy that Duncan will be a soldier and the idea that he might be the reincarnation of the murdered brother suggest a predetermined path. The portent of the broken shoe foretells future ill.
Evidence in the book
- The Portent
The supernatural visions imply a predetermined fate for the characters.
- II: The Second Hearing
The death of the distant relation and the loss of the commission suggest a predetermined path for Duncan, steering him toward a different future.
- III: My Old Nurse's Story
The prophecy that Duncan will be a soldier and the idea that he might be the reincarnation of the murdered brother suggest a predetermined path. The portent of the broken shoe foretells future ill.
- IV: Hilton Hall
The falling target and the strange sense of déjà vu suggest a predetermined path for Duncan.
- Chapter XX: Margaret
The chapter suggests that Duncan's quest is guided by fate, with Margaret's vision and the cross serving as signs.
- Escape
The escape seems fated, with the ring and money preserved for this moment, and the couple's union feels destined.
