Growth of the Soil · Chapter
Chapter VI explained
Isak works on building and land improvement while Inger becomes distant and preoccupied.
What happens
Isak works on building and land improvement while Inger becomes distant and preoccupied. Oline visits and subtly probes about a new child, but Inger reveals she has lost the baby. Oline later suggests she could take care of the farm when Inger goes to prison for infanticide. Inger, distressed, visits the hidden grave of her child.
Themes in this chapter
Community and Isolation
The family's isolation is highlighted by the sheep incident, where the loss of two animals becomes a communal crisis. Oline's visit brings both connection and threat.
Guilt and Redemption
Inger's guilt over her infanticide is palpable; she visits the hidden grave and is haunted by the prospect of prison, while Oline's scheming foreshadows judgment.
Characters to notice
- Isak
Works on building and land, feels neglected by Inger's lack of praise, but is buoyed by Oline's flattery.
- Inger
Distracted and troubled after losing her baby, sings and teaches Eleseus prayers, but is hostile to Oline and later breaks down at the hidden grave.
- Oline
Visits Sellanraa, flatters Isak, probes about a new child, and suggests she could manage the farm when Inger goes to prison.
- Eleseus
Taught an evening prayer by Inger, plays with stones near Isak.
Key passages
“fate, making for their happiness and comfort and well-being, or against them.”
The small events of daily life determine the settlers' fortune, for good or ill.
Reflects the theme of fate and the importance of mundane occurrences in the wilderness.
“Inger had lost the day. She cries and shakes her head and looks down.”
Inger is defeated and weeps, shaking her head in despair.
Shows Inger's emotional collapse after Oline's proposal.