In "The Crow-Child," Mary Mapes Dodge uses vivid descriptions and contrasting imagery to illustrate the theme of innocence and the bond between siblings. The peaceful cottage, with its "sunny windows," symbolizes warmth and love, while the surrounding forest represents darkness and gloom, reflecting the complexities of their orphaned lives. The dynamic nature of Ruky and Cora's relationship is emphasized by their shared adventures and the protective role Cora takes on, showcasing the strength of family ties even in the face of adversity. Through their interactions and the contrasting settings, Dodge conveys the resilience of childhood and the enduring connection between siblings amidst their challenges.
The Crow-Child
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
1 of 16
Question
Use the story to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how the author of “The Crow-Child” used details, words, and actions to present and develop a theme.
1 answer