Horror for Newbies
Sarah Bourdeau asked this question about The Wind in the Willows:
I'm a bit confused as to what the purpose of the demigod in the book was. It felt like a random thing in the middle of the book and like it didn't really fit in. Does anybody know or have any ideas as to why it was included?
Liz Mandeville I think that since these were animals who lived in the wilds it was entirely fitting that "the Green Man," the Great Pan, lord of the forest, would lo…moreI think that since these were animals who lived in the wilds it was entirely fitting that "the Green Man," the Great Pan, lord of the forest, would look out for an innocent youngling off on his own. My mother used to say "God protects innocents and fools" and I think that young otter was a little of both.
I also loved the magical act of forgetfulness that the God dispensed to keep those same young things innocent. To me it was the antithesis of a Christian scene as Pan is a pagan God from before the advent of the Christian dominance. I liked that Pagan virtues were expressed throughout the story. These animals did the right thing, not because they were afraid of a vengeful god or damnation or punishment, just because it was the right thing to do. Like talking your friend out of doing criminal acts with a car or helping a fellow creature lost in a snowstorm. (less)
flag
More questions about The Wind in the Willows…
Image for The Wind in the Willows
The Wind in the Willows
by Kenneth Grahame
Rate this book
Clear rating
1 of 5 stars2 of 5 stars3 of 5 stars4 of 5 stars5 of 5 stars

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more