# IV explained — The Getting of Wisdom

> Chapter companion for The Getting of Wisdom by Henry Handel Richardson.

## What happens

Laura arrives at her godmother's house and is met with criticism about her appearance, particularly her hat. She then visits the boarding school with her godmother and cousin, where she meets the stern Lady Superintendent, Mrs. Gurley, and experiences the oppressive atmosphere of the institution. Laura tries to please Mrs. Gurley but is rebuked for pointing and commenting on her apron, and later faces scrutiny over her religious affiliation.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Conformity vs. Individuality

Laura struggles with the pressure to conform to the school's expectations, as seen in her desire to please Mrs. Gurley and her embarrassment over her mother's choice of hat.

### Family and Maternal Expectations

Laura's mother's decisions about her clothing and upbringing clash with Laura's own desires and the school's standards, highlighting maternal influence and expectations.

## Character check-ins

### Laura Rambotham

Laura arrives at her godmother's house and later visits the boarding school, where she feels anxious and tries to please Mrs. Gurley.

### Godmother

Laura's godmother, who is brusque and sharp-tongued, accompanies Laura to the school and interacts with Mrs. Gurley.

### Cousin Grace

Laura's older cousin who teases her about her hat and the school, making Laura feel self-conscious.

### Mrs. Gurley

The Lady Superintendent of the College, who is stern and rebukes Laura for pointing and commenting on her apron.

### Mother

Mentioned as the one who trimmed Laura's hat and insisted on the scarlet lining, causing Laura embarrassment.

## Key lines

> I suppose you think no end of yourself going to boarding-school?

Cousin Grace sarcastically asks Laura if she is proud of attending boarding school.

_Cousin Grace's teasing tone makes Laura uncertain and uncomfortable._

> It makes you look just like a great big red double dahlia.

Cousin Grace compares Laura's hat to a large red flower, criticizing its appearance.

_Laura feels humiliated by the comment about her mother's handiwork._

> Little gels—are required—to wear white aprons when they come here!

Mrs. Gurley sternly informs Laura that new students must wear white aprons.

_Laura is rebuked for pointing and commenting on Mrs. Gurley's apron, which she finds embarrassing._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_getting_of_wisdom_se/chapters/iv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_getting_of_wisdom_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_getting_of_wisdom_se/chapters