O Pioneers! · Chapter
II explained
On his deathbed, John Bergson entrusts the future of his family and land to his daughter Alexandra, instructing his sons Lou and Oscar to follow her guidance.
What happens
On his deathbed, John Bergson entrusts the future of his family and land to his daughter Alexandra, instructing his sons Lou and Oscar to follow her guidance. He reflects on Alexandra's intelligence and resourcefulness, which remind him of his own father, and acknowledges his wife's efforts to maintain order and tradition in their harsh pioneer life.
Themes in this chapter
Pioneer Struggle and Resilience
John Bergson's deathbed instructions emphasize the hard work and perseverance needed to keep the land and survive on the frontier.
Land and Identity
The land is central to the Bergson family's identity and future, with John urging his children to never lose it.
Gender Roles and Independence
John Bergson defies traditional gender roles by entrusting leadership to his daughter Alexandra, recognizing her intelligence and capability.
Characters to notice
- Alexandra Bergson
John Bergson's daughter, entrusted with managing the family land and guiding her brothers after his death.
- John Bergson
The dying patriarch who passes on his wishes and responsibilities to Alexandra.
- Lou Bergson
One of John's sons, described as quicker but vacillating.
- Oscar Bergson
The elder son, with a square head and heavy shoulders, who agrees to keep the land together.
- Mrs. Bergson
John's wife, a good housewife who strives to maintain order and preserve food, missing her old country.
Key passages
“I can, father." "Don't let them get discouraged and go off like Uncle Otto. I want them to keep the land." "We will, father. We will never lose the land.”
Alexandra promises her father that she and her brothers will hold onto the land and not abandon it as Uncle Otto did.
Illustrates the family's commitment to the land despite hardships.
“Alexandra is the oldest, and she knows my wishes. She will do the best she can. If she makes mistakes, she will not make so many as I have made.”
John Bergson declares that Alexandra, as the eldest, will lead the family, trusting her judgment more than his own.
Highlights John's faith in Alexandra's capability and his own regrets.
“She can make much more with her eggs and butter than the wages of a man.”
John advises that Alexandra's work with poultry and dairy is more profitable than hiring a man for field labor.
Reflects the economic realities and gender roles of pioneer life.