Green Meadow Stories · Chapter
XVI: Peter Rabbit’s Looking-Glass explained
Peter Rabbit, for the first time in his life, becomes concerned about his appearance after falling in love with the shy little Miss Fuzzytail.
What happens
Peter Rabbit, for the first time in his life, becomes concerned about his appearance after falling in love with the shy little Miss Fuzzytail. He finds a pool of water to use as a looking-glass, sees his ragged and dirty coat, and spends an hour grooming himself to look neat and clean.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Relationships
Peter Rabbit's newfound desire to be good-looking is driven by his budding love for little Miss Fuzzytail.
Wisdom and Heedlessness
Peter's past heedlessness about his appearance contrasts with his new wisdom in grooming himself to make a good impression.
Characters to notice
- Peter Rabbit
Falls in love with little Miss Fuzzytail and becomes self-conscious about his appearance; grooms himself by a pool.
- Little Miss Fuzzytail
The object of Peter's affection; her soft eyes are seen peeping at him, and she may have left sweet clover for him.
- Old Jed Thumper
Mentioned as the father of little Miss Fuzzytail, who was fooled by her so Peter could nap.
- Sammy Jay
Mentioned as someone Peter used to laugh at for caring about his appearance.
- Reddy Fox
Mentioned as someone Peter used to poke fun at for bragging about his handsome suit.
Key passages
“If people by their looks are judged, As judged they’re sure to be, Why each should always look his best, I’m sure you will agree.”
People are judged by their appearance, so it's wise to always look your best.
Opening verse sets the theme of appearance and judgment.
“Though I am homely, lank and lean, I can at least be neat and clean.”
Even if I'm not handsome, I can still be tidy and clean.
Peter's resolution after grooming himself.