Emily of New Moon · Chapter
When the Curtain Lifted explained
After a reconciliation with Aunt Elizabeth, Emily continues to navigate their differences but now feels a genuine affection from her aunt.
What happens
After a reconciliation with Aunt Elizabeth, Emily continues to navigate their differences but now feels a genuine affection from her aunt. Emily grows rapidly, burning old manuscripts and writing new ones in her lookout. She falls ill with a fever and, in a delirious state, reveals a vision of Ilse's mother falling into the old Lee well. Aunt Elizabeth, keeping her promise to Emily, orders the well searched, leading to the discovery of Beatrice Burnley's remains. The truth clears Beatrice's name, and Dr. Burnley reconciles with Ilse, showering her with long-withheld love.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Truth
The chapter resolves the long-hidden truth of Beatrice Burnley's death, clearing her name and ending years of wrongful suspicion.
Family and Belonging
Emily feels a genuine bond with Aunt Elizabeth; Dr. Burnley's reconciliation with Ilse restores their family.
Characters to notice
- Emily Byrd Starr
Grows rapidly in body, mind, and soul; burns old manuscripts; falls ill with fever and has a visionary revelation about Beatrice Burnley's fate.
- Aunt Elizabeth Murray
Learns fairness toward children; shows affection for Emily; keeps her promise to search the well despite absurdity and pride.
- Aunt Laura Murray
Worries over Ilse; nurses Emily through her illness; tells Emily the full story of Beatrice Burnley's death.
- Ilse Burnley
Blossoms into beauty and brilliance; reconciles with her father after the truth about her mother is revealed.
- Dr. Burnley
Tired and worried over Emily; reconciles with Ilse, pouring out twelve years of shut-up love.
Key passages
“I don't believe I'm a duty to Aunt Elizabeth any more.”
Emily feels that Aunt Elizabeth now genuinely cares for her, not just out of obligation.
Reflects Emily's emotional growth and improved relationship with Aunt Elizabeth.
“Love will do wonders.”
Aunt Laura believes that love can heal even deep wounds.
Said in context of Dr. Burnley's newfound affection for Ilse.