Female Agency and Autonomy

Birdalone repeatedly asserts her independence and will, from escaping the witch's captivity to navigating the Wonder Isles and choosing her own path, often defying male or magical authority.

Birdalone's escape from the witch demonstrates her growing agency and desire for freedom.

The witch wife acts independently and deceptively to achieve her ends, while the poor mother is powerless and desperate, highlighting contrasting forms of female agency.

Despite her captivity, Birdalone develops her own will, resists the witch's malice, and chooses the wood as her sanctuary.

Birdalone's growing awareness of her lack of agency as a chattel and her secret hope of escape highlight the theme of female autonomy and the struggle against subjugation.