Bambi's Solitude and the Old Stag's Rescue explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Solitude and Independence

  Bambi is alone, seeking solitude by the water, and reflects on his growing seriousness and heavy heart.

• Fear and Danger

  The chapter highlights the constant danger from 'Him' and the fox, as seen in the duck's death and the hare's snare.

• Humanity as Destructive Force

  The snare and the discussion of Gobo's death underscore the destructive impact of humans on the forest creatures.

Characters to notice

• Bambi

  Bambi is alone, spending time by the water, observing the ducks and the hummingbird, and reflecting on his solitude.

• the old Prince

  The old stag rescues Friend Hare from a snare and walks with Bambi, discussing Gobo and the danger of 'Him.'

• the Hare

  Friend Hare is caught in a snare and is rescued by the old stag, who commands him to lie still.

• Gobo

  Bambi and the old stag discuss Gobo, referencing his captivity and his belief that 'He' is all-powerful and all-good.

Key passages

• “Bambi was alone. He walked beside the water that ran swiftly among the reeds and swamp-willows.”

  Bambi, now solitary, walked along the fast-flowing water among the reeds and willows.

  Establishes Bambi's solitude and his new habit of staying by the water.

• “The old stag took the branch between his teeth, and twisted it. He bent down. Then he walked around putting his weight cunningly against it. He held it to the earth with his hoof and snapped it with a single blow of his antlers.”

  The old stag used his teeth, weight, and antlers to break the branch and free the hare from the snare.

  Describes the old stag's careful and skillful rescue of Friend Hare.

• “How did your Gobo put it⁠ ⁠… ? Didn’t Gobo tell you He is all-powerful and all-good.”

  The old stag recalls Gobo's claim that 'He' is all-powerful and all-good, questioning Bambi's belief.

  Highlights the old stag's skepticism about Gobo's view of humans.