The Adventures of Pinocchio · Chapter
Geppetto Makes Pinocchio New Feet explained
After satisfying his hunger, Pinocchio cries for new feet.
What happens
After satisfying his hunger, Pinocchio cries for new feet. Geppetto initially refuses to punish him, but eventually relents and makes him new feet. Pinocchio promises to be good, go to school, and learn a trade. Geppetto sells his own coat to buy Pinocchio a spelling book, and Pinocchio embraces him in gratitude.
Themes in this chapter
Parental Sacrifice and Love
Geppetto sells his own coat to buy Pinocchio a spelling book, demonstrating profound love and sacrifice despite his poverty.
Education and Labor
Pinocchio promises to go to school and learn a trade, highlighting the importance of education and work as paths to moral growth.
Deception and Gullibility
Pinocchio's promises echo the typical excuses of boys, as Geppetto notes, showing the theme of deception even in well-meaning intentions.
Characters to notice
- Pinocchio
Cries for new feet, promises to be good and go to school, then joyfully capers about after receiving his new feet. He later embraces Geppetto after learning his father sold his coat.
- Geppetto
Punishes Pinocchio by delaying, then makes him new feet with glue. He sells his own coat to buy a spelling book for Pinocchio, showing deep parental sacrifice.
Key passages
“I promise you that I will go to school and that I will study and bring home a good report.”
Pinocchio vows to attend school and earn good grades.
Pinocchio's promise to reform, though Geppetto is skeptical.
“I have sold it.”
Geppetto says he sold his coat.
Geppetto's sacrifice for Pinocchio's education.
“Because I found it too hot.”
Geppetto claims he sold his coat because it was too warm.
A white lie to hide his sacrifice from Pinocchio.