The Swiss Family Robinson · Question
How does The Swiss Family Robinson develop the theme of Gratitude and Contentment?
Answer
The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss develops Gratitude and Contentment across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Despite their dire circumstances, the family cultivates a spirit of thankfulness for every provision and small joy, finding happiness in their unity, labor, and the beauty of their island home rather than in material wealth.
Mother urges contentment and gratitude to God for their safety and reunion despite the failure to find shipmates.
Mother expresses heartfelt thanks for the safe return and the acquisition of useful animals.
The family expresses contentment with their hammocks and meal, and the father reminds the boys to be satisfied with their accommodations.
Evidence in the book
- Return from the Voyage of Discovery
Mother urges contentment and gratitude to God for their safety and reunion despite the failure to find shipmates.
- Chapter VI
Mother expresses heartfelt thanks for the safe return and the acquisition of useful animals.
- Building the Ladder and Settling in the Giant Tree
The family expresses contentment with their hammocks and meal, and the father reminds the boys to be satisfied with their accommodations.
- Settling in the Giant Tree
The mother expresses joy and gratitude for their new home, and the family feels secure and at peace, thanking God for their preservation.
- The Parable of the Great King
The parable encourages gratitude for God's gifts and contentment with one's lot, while the family's Sabbath observance includes thanksgiving and reflection.
- The Discovery of Potatoes
The family's joy and thanks for the potato discovery, with the father quoting Psalm 107 to highlight divine provision.
- XIV
The family enjoys their meal of potatoes and milk with joy and laughter, and concludes the day with evening prayers, expressing contentment in their simple life.
- A Bathing, a Fishing, the Jumping Hare, and a Masquerade
The family's satisfaction with their simple supper of fish and potatoes, and their gratitude for the day's provisions, underscores a theme of contentment with their lot.
