# Settling in the Giant Tree explained — The Swiss Family Robinson

> Chapter companion for The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss.

## What happens

The family moves into their new home in a giant tree, constructing a floor, walls, and a sailcloth roof at a height of forty-six feet. After a day of hard labor, they enjoy a meal of stewed flamingo and prepare to observe the Sabbath. The chapter ends with the family sleeping safely in their elevated dwelling.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Paternal Authority

The father orchestrates the construction and safety measures, while the mother manages domestic duties and spiritual reminders, reinforcing traditional family roles.

### Resourcefulness and Industry

The family uses a pulley, saws, hatchets, and sailcloth to build a complex tree dwelling, demonstrating ingenuity and hard work.

### Gratitude and Contentment

The mother expresses joy and gratitude for their new home, and the family feels secure and at peace, thanking God for their preservation.

## Character check-ins

### Father

Leads the construction of the tree house, works tirelessly, and carries little Francis up the ladder.

### Fritz

Assists his father in the tree house construction and earlier killed the flamingo that is cooked for supper.

### Ernest

Advises stewing the old flamingo to improve its taste, earning the nickname 'the cook' from his brothers.

### Jack

Accompanies his mother to the seashore to collect wood and helps with the day's tasks.

### Francis

The youngest, carried up the ladder by his father; also helps collect wood with his brothers.

### Mother

Manages household duties, milks the cow, prepares meals, and reminds the family that the next day is Sunday.

## Key lines

> Every leaf that stirred, gave me the apprehension that it was the approach of a jackall or a tiger, who might attack some member of my family.

The father stayed awake on guard, fearing that any rustling leaf signaled a dangerous animal threatening his family.

_Highlights the father's protective anxiety in the unfamiliar wilderness._

> I always find you right, my dear, said I. It shall not be long ere we again undertake another visit to the vessel, to fetch a new provision of grain for your poultry.

The father agrees with his wife's practical suggestion and plans another trip to the ship for supplies.

_Shows the couple's cooperative decision-making and reliance on the wrecked ship._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se/chapters/part-i-xi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_swiss_family_robinson_se/chapters