This passage tells the story of Kit Tyler in Elizabeth George Speare’s book, The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Kit Tyler, the main character, was raised by her grandfather in Barbados and enjoyed a privileged life. Living on the island, she experienced the luxuries of having enslaved servants and owning valuable possessions. Kit lived without worries and had the freedom to pursue her dreams while relying on her loyal servants to take care of her responsibilities throughout the story.
Kit faces the challenge of not being able to fit in with the people of Wethersfield because her previous life in Barbados is so different from their way of life. However, as the story progresses, she slowly gains acceptance from both her family and the community in Wethersfield, Connecticut. Kit undergoes a transformation from being self-centered and spoiled but brave, to becoming someone who appreciates others and understands the importance of friendship and family. At the beginning of the book, Kit’s attitude is very different from how she behaves at the end.
Kit’s impulsive nature stems from her privileged upbringing in Barbados, where she had a plethora of servants. She exhibits this impulsiveness by ordering the Captain to turn back without considering the consequences. Her outspoken and competitive nature is also evident when she laughs at someone she surpasses in a boat race. In addition, Kit’s thoughtlessness is displayed when she insults Nat about the smell of the Dolphin, and when she impulsively jumps into the water to retrieve a doll dropped by Prudence. Furthermore, Kit is seen as immature compared to the disciplined people of Connecticut, according to her perspective.
The main issue in the story is that Kit struggles to adapt to the structured lifestyle of Wethersfield. This difficulty arises because Kit, having been brought up in a wealthy neighborhood, displays traces of arrogance. This is evident when she interacts with the Captain, and she becomes impatient when he removes his hat and speaks politely. Initially, Kit’s immaturity and lack of tact are apparent; however, this changes throughout the narrative. Kit’s upbringing in Barbados, where she lived a carefree life aided by numerous servants due to her family’s great wealth, left her ill-prepared for the responsibilities and customs of Wethersfield.
When Kit arrives in Wethersfield, she struggles to learn and complete all the household chores. Additionally, she becomes friends with Hannah Tupper, another outcast who faces rejection from the people in Wethersfield and is labeled as a witch by many. However, as Kit becomes accustomed to the Puritan lifestyle, her friend Nat comments on how she has transformed from a vibrant and lively bird into a dark and somber crow. As Kit continues to have new experiences, she undergoes further changes. Instead of her usual lighthearted demeanor, she evolves into a more mature woman. This transformation is evident in the novel when Kit takes on the role of a teacher at the dame school.
During her teaching session with Mercy, Kit decides to dramatize a story, but she mistakenly involves the troublemakers, resulting in chaos. The schoolmaster and the Reverend intervene and declare that their dame school will no longer continue. Witnessing this, Mercy starts crying, deeply upsetting Kit. Filled with horror at the situation, Kit flees in a state of panic, rushing out the door and down the roadway. This event also marks a noticeable shift in Kit’s attitude towards her new family; she now deeply cares for them. “The sight of Mercy’s tears was more than Kit could endure.” This transformation signifies Kit’s progression from being an immature girl to becoming a mature young woman.
By the end of the story, Kit undergoes several transformations in her behavior and perspective towards the people of Wethersfield. Kit’s plea in alarm reveals her change in attitude as she defends someone who came back to help her. In addition, she takes the risk of being accused of witchcraft by helping a poor girl she barely knows, putting herself and Prudence in danger. Goodwife Cruff’s disapproval also worries Kit. Furthermore, Kit showcases her maturity by assisting Mercy and Judith in recovering from the sickness that had spread through the town. Kit assumes responsibility for meals, heating water for washing, tending to Mercy’s comfort, and helping Judith with special gruel. Even though exhausted, Kit remains vigilant about completing her tasks. Through these experiences, Kit learns that choosing the easy way out is not the right path.
If she were to accept William’s marriage proposal, it would not be ethical as she does not love him. She tells William, “‘Tis no use…You and I would always be uneasy, all of our lives.” By the end of the novel, Kit has transformed from her carefree self to a more mature girl who understands the significance of friendship and family. The key themes of the story are the triumph of love and the importance of genuine friendship. “Oh please sir…It is all my fault! I’m responsible…do what you want with me. But…send Prudence away from this dreadful place.” This act demonstrates true friendship as Kit sacrifices herself to protect Prudence from trouble.
The friendship between Kit, Hannah Tupper, and Prudence is out of the ordinary. Even though Hannah is accused of witchcraft, Kit takes a chance and befriends her. Moreover, Kit has affection for everyone in Uncle Matthew’s house and demonstrates it by giving presents instead of riding. This concept can also be applied to the romantic triangle in the tale which includes Kit and Nat, Judith and William, as well as Mercy and John. These pairs are compatible due to their personalities and overall perspective on life.
The book impressed me greatly with its realistic portrayal. It effortlessly transported me into the world of a young girl named Kit, enabling me to understand her emotions and live through the events that unfold when she arrives in Wethersfield. Moreover, I could vividly imagine the complex love triangle that develops among the characters. In addition, it served as an enlightening window into the historical context of witch hunts, shedding light on how it affected those accused and their loved ones. Lastly, the seamlessly integrated themes in the novel harmoniously complemented the overall narrative, effectively illustrating the consequences faced by Kit, her friends, and family. The author’s skill in conveying these themes made them an essential part of the book’s essence.
