Bambi · Chapter
XXI explained
Bambi is shot by Him and is saved by the old stag, who guides him through the forest, helps him heal, and teaches him to survive.
What happens
Bambi is shot by Him and is saved by the old stag, who guides him through the forest, helps him heal, and teaches him to survive. Bambi struggles with pain, fear, and isolation, eventually recovering but choosing to leave the hollow and the old stag behind.
Themes in this chapter
Fear and Danger
Bambi experiences intense fear and danger after being shot, with the constant threat of Him and His dog pursuing him.
Solitude and Independence
Bambi chooses solitude over companionship, distancing himself from Faline and ultimately leaving the old stag to be alone.
Humanity as Destructive Force
The chapter highlights the destructive impact of humans (Him) on the forest creatures, as Bambi is shot and nearly killed.
Characters to notice
- Bambi
Bambi is shot, suffers greatly, and is guided by the old stag to safety and healing. He grapples with fear, shame, and a desire for solitude.
- the old Prince
The old stag rescues Bambi after he is shot, leads him to a hidden hollow, tends to his wound, and teaches him to survive. He calls Bambi 'my son' and stays with him until he recovers.
- Faline
Faline meets Bambi the night before he is shot, expressing sadness at his distance and asking if he still loves her. Bambi replies that he wants to be alone.
Key passages
“Not until the fever had entirely left his body did Bambi begin to think over all that had happened to him. Then a great terror awoke in him, and a profound tremor passed through his heart.”
Only after his fever broke did Bambi start to reflect on his ordeal, feeling a deep fear and trembling in his heart.
Bambi's emotional and psychological recovery begins after his physical healing.
“My son! The words seemed to have escaped him. In a flash Bambi was on his feet.”
The old stag accidentally called Bambi 'my son,' which gave Bambi the strength to stand up immediately.
The old stag's slip of the tongue reveals his deep care for Bambi and motivates Bambi to keep going.