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'It was true that neither Mr Daily nor the landlord of the inn seemed anything but sturdy men of good commonsense.' How are the residents of Crythin Gifford significant in the novel? You must refer to the context of the novel in your answer. - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 21 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 21
'It was true that neither Mr Daily nor the landlord of the inn seemed anything but sturdy men of good commonsense.' How are the residents of Crythin Gifford signi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'It was true that neither Mr Daily nor the landlord of the inn seemed anything but sturdy men of good commonsense.' How are the residents of Crythin Gifford significant in the novel? You must refer to the context of the novel in your answer. - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 21 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
How are the residents of Crythin Gifford significant in the novel?
Answer
The residents of Crythin Gifford play a crucial role in establishing the atmosphere and themes of the novel.
Interpretation of Text
Samuel Daily, as a prominent resident and businessman, embodies the qualities of good commonsense and community spirit. His character aids Arthur Kipps when he arrives in the village. Daily's hospitality is evident as he offers Kipps a place to stay and lends him support during his stay. For instance, when Daily shows concern for Kipps' welfare, it emphasizes the bond between the villagers and highlights the isolation that Kipps feels as an outsider.
Moreover, Mr. Daily's actions, such as rescuing Kipps from the marsh and caring for his dog, symbolize the fundamental human decency among the villagers. This not only reflects the warmth of the community but also contrasts with the eerie and menacing presence of the supernatural elements within the story.
Relationship Between Text and Context
The late Victorian era, during which the events unfold, emphasizes the contrast between city life and rural existence. Crythin Gifford represents a time when rationalism coexisted with deeply entrenched beliefs in the supernatural. The village’s residents often seem to embody this dichotomy, where daily life is punctuated by eerie occurrences and old legends, such as the tale of the Woman in Black.
Furthermore, Jenet Humfrye's actions and motivations, including her revenge stemming from societal judgments, highlight the constraints faced by women in that era. By situating Kipps in this context, the novel shows how closely intertwined personal and communal histories inform the characters’ realities.
In summary, the residents of Crythin Gifford are not merely background characters; they represent the threads of human connection that surround the overarching themes of isolation, fear, and the clash between modernity and superstition.