The Princess and Curdie · Chapter
IX: Hands explained
Curdie returns home and tells his parents about his encounter with the old princess and the gift he received.
What happens
Curdie returns home and tells his parents about his encounter with the old princess and the gift he received. His parents are skeptical, but his mother's hand feels like the princess's to Curdie, leading to a discussion about inner nobility and true gentility. Peter affirms that Joan is a true lady, and Curdie prepares to leave for Gwyntystorm, taking his working clothes and tools despite his mother's suggestion to wear better garments.
Themes in this chapter
Perception vs. Reality
Curdie's new gift reveals inner truth, contrasting outward appearance with inner reality, as seen with his mother's hand.
Growth and Maturity
Curdie's decision to leave home and his mature handling of his parents' skepticism show his growth.
Faith and Trust
Curdie's parents must trust his account despite their doubts, and Curdie trusts the gift he received.
Characters to notice
- Curdie
Returns home, shares his story, demonstrates his new gift by feeling his mother's hand, and prepares to leave for Gwyntystorm.
- Peter
Listens to Curdie's account, expresses skepticism but supports his wife's inner nobility, and gives Curdie a stick for his journey.
- Joan
Curdie's mother, initially doubtful, but her hand feels like the princess's to Curdie, leading to a discussion about inner beauty.
Key passages
“Mother, it tells me nothing but the truth, insisted Curdie, however unlike the truth it may seem.”
Curdie insists that his gift reveals only the truth, even if it appears improbable.
Highlights the theme of perception vs. reality.
“I am sure your inside mother must be a lady, as her hand tells you, and I will try to say how I know it.”
Peter believes that Joan's inner character is that of a lady, as revealed by Curdie's gift.
Emphasizes the idea of inner nobility.