# XI: Lina explained — The Princess and Curdie

> Chapter companion for The Princess and Curdie by George MacDonald.

## What happens

Curdie recognizes Lina, the frightful creature from the princess's tower, and they form a bond. After a night attack by strange bird-like creatures, Lina saves Curdie, and he tends to her wounds. They journey together for seven days, with Lina proving her loyalty and bravery, deepening Curdie's trust and affection for her.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Trust

Curdie's growing trust in Lina despite her frightening appearance, and his faith in the princess's promise.

### Sacrifice and Service

Lina risks her life to save Curdie, and Curdie tends to her wounds, showing mutual service.

## Character check-ins

### Curdie

Recognizes Lina and accepts her as a companion, showing trust and care.

### Lina

Saves Curdie from the bird attack and proves her loyalty during their journey.

### Princess Irene

Mentioned as the one who promised Curdie a companion, and whose creature Lina is.

## Key lines

> It was Lina. All at once Curdie recognised her⁠—the frightful creature he had seen at the princess’s.

Curdie suddenly realizes the creature before him is Lina, the terrifying being he had encountered at the princess's residence.

_Recognition of Lina as the princess's creature._

> She wagged her tail, and made it clear she understood him. Then it flashed upon Curdie’s mind that perhaps this was the companion the princess had promised him.

Lina's tail wagging shows she comprehends Curdie's gratitude, and he suddenly thinks she might be the companion the princess had promised.

_Curdie's realization that Lina is his promised companion._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se/chapters/xi-lina
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_princess_and_curdie_se/chapters