In the short story "Marigolds" by Eugenia W. Collier, Miss Lottie is a significant character who represents the theme of hope and beauty in a harsh environment. She is an elderly woman who struggles to maintain her vibrant marigolds in the dusty, impoverished town where she lives. The marigolds symbolize beauty and resilience amidst despair.
Miss Lottie is often the target of the children's scorn, as they do not understand her dedication to her flowers and their significance. However, as the story progresses, the protagonist, Lizbeth, comes to see Miss Lottie's marigolds as a source of strength and a lesson in compassion, leading to a transformation in Lizbeth's understanding of life and empathy for others. Miss Lottie's character serves to illustrate the complexities of human experience, showing that even in difficult circumstances, one can find moments of beauty and inspire hope in others.