The Princess and the Goblin · Chapter
Masonwork explained
Curdie remembers the goblins' plan to flood the mine and rushes to help his father and the miners build a buttress to block the goblins' passage.
What happens
Curdie remembers the goblins' plan to flood the mine and rushes to help his father and the miners build a buttress to block the goblins' passage. After securing the mine, he returns to his cottage through a violent storm to find his mother and Princess Irene safe but stranded. They spend the night together, and the princess falls asleep gazing at her grandmother's lamp.
Themes in this chapter
Perseverance and Hard Work
The miners work tirelessly to build a buttress and secure the mine despite the goblins' activity and the storm.
Family and Loyalty
Curdie's concern for his mother and the princess, and the family's care for Irene, highlight loyalty and familial bonds.
Courage vs. Fear
Curdie braves the storm and the goblin threat, while the princess remains cheerful in adversity.
Characters to notice
- Curdie
Leads the effort to secure the mine and returns to the cottage through the storm.
- Princess Irene
Stays at the cottage with Curdie's mother, cheerful despite the storm.
- Peter Peterson
Helps build the buttress and returns to the cottage after the storm.
- Mrs. Peterson
Tries to light the fire and cares for the princess.
- The Old Lady
Referenced indirectly through the princess's mention of her grandmother and the lamp.
Key passages
“He had all at once remembered the resolution of the goblins to carry out their second plan upon the failure of the first.”
Curdie suddenly recalled that the goblins intended to execute their backup plan after their initial attempt failed.
This motivates Curdie to act quickly to prevent the mine from being flooded.
““I never had such fun!” said the princess, her eyes twinkling and her pretty teeth shining.”
The princess exclaimed that she was having a wonderful time, her eyes sparkling and her smile bright.
Irene's cheerful attitude contrasts with the dangerous storm and the cottage's miserable condition.
““It all depends on what kind your inside house is,” said the mother.”
The mother replied that one's inner state of mind determines how they experience external circumstances.
This reflects a theme of inner resilience and wisdom, reminiscent of the old lady's teachings.