Class and Servitude

Themes of captivity, servitude, and social hierarchy are explored through Birdalone's early life as a thrall, her later rise in status, and her relationships with servants, knights, and queens.

The poor widow's poverty and hunger contrast with the witch wife's wealth and power, illustrating class disparities and the vulnerability of the poor.

The witch-wife's control over the stolen child, treating her as a possession to be fed and handled at will, reflects a power imbalance.

Birdalone's life as a thrall, performing hard labor and being treated as a tool, underscores the dynamics of class and servitude in her relationship with the witch-wife.

Birdalone's scant raiment and fear of punishment highlight her servitude to the witch, who controls her labor and even her appearance.