Emily of New Moon · Chapter
Living Epistles explained
Emily writes to her father about her adventure staying overnight at Ilse's house, her birthday gifts, and her daily life at New Moon.
What happens
Emily writes to her father about her adventure staying overnight at Ilse's house, her birthday gifts, and her daily life at New Moon. She recounts her daring night alone in the garret, her growing friendships with Ilse, Teddy, and Perry, and her ongoing struggles with Miss Brownell and Aunt Elizabeth.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
Emily's relationships with Ilse, Teddy, and Perry are central, including dares, gifts, and reconciliations.
Imagination and Creativity
Emily's vivid descriptions, her invented word 'smee', and her poetic sensibilities highlight her creative nature.
Characters to notice
- Emily Byrd Starr
Narrates the chapter through her letters, describing her adventure, birthday, and interactions with others.
- Ilse Burnley
Emily's friend who dares her to sleep alone in the garret and gives her a box of candy for her birthday.
- Aunt Elizabeth Murray
Grants Emily permission to stay at Ilse's, gives her a dictionary for her birthday, and shows rare praise after Emily bakes a cake.
- Aunt Laura Murray
Makes Emily a birthday cake and gives her a petticoat and a piece of pink satin brocade.
- Cousin Jimmy Murray
Measures Emily's height, gives her a blank book for her birthday, and helps with the garden.
- Teddy Kent
Paints a picture of Emily for her birthday and plans to paint a big picture of her when he grows up.
Key passages
“I have been the heroin of an adventure.”
Emily declares she has been the heroine of an exciting adventure.
Emily's dramatic flair in describing her overnight stay at Ilse's.
“I dare you to come up here at bedtime and sleep here all night.”
Ilse challenges Emily to spend the night alone in the garret.
The dare that tests Emily's courage and pride.
“I had saved the Murrays from disgrace.”
Emily feels she has prevented the family from being embarrassed by having no cake for unexpected guests.
Emily's sense of responsibility and pride in her baking success.