“A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

“A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman was first published in 1891 in the collection “A New England Nun and Other Stories”. This short story showcases Freeman’s exceptional storytelling skills and her ability to craft relatable characters with good qualities, such as the protagonist Louisa Ellis’s independence and self-sufficiency. The story is set in a small New England town, providing a unique context that explores the societal norms and expectations of women during the late 19th century. Through Louisa’s experiences, Freeman masterfully weaves a narrative that highlights the complexities of women’s lives and the choices they make in pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.

Main Events in “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

1. Louisa’s Peaceful Life: Louisa Ellis lives a peaceful and solitary life in her own home, enjoying her hobbies and interests.
2. Fifteen-Year Engagement: Louisa has been engaged to Joe Dagget for fifteen years, during which time Joe has been away making his fortune.
3. Joe’s Return: Joe returns home, expecting to marry Louisa, but finds her changed and distant.
4. Awkward Encounter: Louisa and Joe have an awkward conversation, with Joe struggling to find his place in Louisa’s delicate and feminine world.
5. Louisa’s Fear of Change: Louisa fears the changes that marriage will bring, including the loss of her peaceful and orderly home.
6. Leaving Her Home: Louisa must leave her own home and move into Joe’s family home, where she will be expected to care for his mother and manage a large household.
7. Giving Up Her Independence: Louisa must give up her independence and her beloved solitary life, including her hobbies and interests.
8. Joe’s Disillusionment: Joe realizes that Louisa is not the same woman he left behind, and that their marriage may not be the romantic reunion he imagined.
9. Uncertain Future: The story concludes with Louisa and Joe’s future uncertain, as they face the challenges of their long-awaited marriage.
10. A New Chapter: The story ends with Louisa and Joe embarking on a new chapter in their lives, unsure of what the future holds.

Literary Devices in “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

Literary Device	Definition	Example from the Story
Alliteration	Repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words in close proximity.	“little swarms of flies were dancing up and down before the people’s faces”
Allusion	Brief reference to a person, place, event, or work of art that is well-known to the reader.	Reference to St. George’s dragon
Characterization	Techniques used to create and develop characters.	Description of Louisa’s meticulous and orderly habits
Conflict	Struggle between opposing forces, which creates tension and drives the plot.	Internal conflict within Louisa about her impending marriage versus her desire to maintain her peaceful, solitary lifestyle
Foreshadowing	Hints or clues about events that will occur later in the story.	The peaceful atmosphere and routine of Louisa’s life before the disruption caused by Joe Dagget’s return
Imagery	Use of descriptive language to create sensory experiences for the reader.	Description of the setting, such as “luxuriant clumps of bushes,” “moonlight shining through the tree branches,” and “beautiful shifting dapple of silver and shadow”
Irony	Contrast between expectation and reality, often with humorous or dramatic effect.	Louisa’s anticipation of a peaceful married life versus the disruptive events that unfold after Joe Dagget’s return
Metaphor	Comparison between two unlike things without using “like” or “as.”	Comparison of Louisa’s life to that of a nun, suggesting her solitude and dedication to a routine lifestyle
Motif	Recurring element that has symbolic significance and contributes to the theme.	References to sewing, orderliness, and routine throughout the story
Personification	Giving human characteristics to non-human entities.	Description of the wind “whistling loud and sweet” through Joe Dagget’s ears
Repetition	Repeating words, phrases, or motifs for emphasis or thematic effect.	Repetition of the phrase “I hope you won’t” by Joe Dagget when discussing Lily Dyer’s future
Setting	Time and place where the story takes place, which often influences the mood and atmosphere.	Rural New England setting, with descriptions of the countryside, harvest fields, and Louisa’s meticulously kept home
Simile	Comparison between two unlike things using “like” or “as.”	Comparison of Joe Dagget’s exit from Louisa’s house to an innocent bear exiting a china shop
Symbolism	Use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts.	Louisa’s china representing her desire for refinement and elegance, contrasted with the simplicity of her surroundings
Theme	Central message or insight about life explored in the story.	Themes of loyalty, duty, and the tension between personal desires and societal expectations
Tone	Author’s attitude toward the subject matter or audience, conveyed through the writing style.	Gentle and contemplative tone throughout the story, reflecting Louisa’s peaceful and introspective nature
Flashback	Interruption of the chronological sequence to present events that occurred earlier.	Reflections on Louisa and Joe Dagget’s long courtship and the circumstances leading up to their impending marriage
Foil	Character who contrasts with another character, highlighting their differences.	Contrast between Louisa’s quiet and orderly demeanor and Lily Dyer’s assertive and outspoken nature
Juxtaposition	Placement of two or more contrasting elements side by side to highlight their differences.	Juxtaposition of Louisa’s solitary routine and Joe Dagget’s disruptive presence
Suspense	Feeling of uncertainty or anticipation about what will happen next in the story.	Suspense regarding Louisa’s decision about whether to marry Joe Dagget or maintain her solitary lifestyle

Characterization in “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

Major Characters:

• Louisa Ellis:
  • Independent and self-sufficient: Louisa has lived alone for so long that she has become accustomed to relying only on herself.
  • Values her solitude and peaceful life: Louisa’s home is her sanctuary, and she takes great care to maintain its order and tranquility.
  • Fears change and uncertainty: The prospect of marrying Joe and leaving her home fills Louisa with anxiety and dread.
  • Examples: Louisa’s meticulous care of her home, her hesitation to marry Joe, her tears when leaving her home, and her distillation of essences from roses and peppermint.
• Joe Dagget:
  • Loyal and dedicated: Joe has waited 15 years for Louisa and remains committed to their engagement.
  • Values his relationship with Louisa: Joe’s return is motivated by his desire to finally marry Louisa and start a life together.
  • Struggles to understand Louisa’s perspective: Joe’s awkward interactions with Louisa reveal his difficulty in grasping her thoughts and feelings.
  • Examples: Joe’s return after 15 years, his attempts to connect with Louisa, his disappointment with her changed behavior, and his clumsy accident with the workbasket.

Minor Characters:

• Joe’s Mother:
  • Domineering and opinionated: Joe’s mother is a strong-willed woman who expects others to conform to her expectations.
  • Values traditional gender roles: She disapproves of Louisa’s independence and expects her to adopt a more submissive role.
  • Examples: Her disapproval of Louisa’s independence, her expectation of Louisa’s domesticity, and her reliance on Lily Dyer for household help.
• Lily Dyer:
  • Young and energetic: Lily is a vibrant and lively presence in the story.
  • Helps Joe’s mother with household chores: Lily’s assistance highlights Joe’s mother’s reliance on others for domestic support.
  • Examples: Her presence at Joe’s mother’s house, her conversation with Joe about his mother’s health, and her role as a foil to Louisa’s more subdued personality.

Major Themes in “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

1. Isolation and Independence: Louisa Ellis embodies the theme of isolation, living a solitary life for fourteen years while awaiting her fiancé’s return. Her independence is symbolized by her meticulous routines and domestic habits, such as sewing, gardening, and caring for her home. Even after Joe Dagget’s return, Louisa grapples with the prospect of giving up her solitary existence. For example, she reflects on the changes marriage will bring, including relinquishing her hobbies and caring for Joe’s elderly mother.
2. Expectations vs. Reality: The story examines the contrast between Louisa’s expectations of marriage and the reality she faces. Initially, Louisa’s anticipation of marriage is romanticized, as she has faithfully waited for Joe’s return. However, the reality of their reunion challenges her idealized vision. Louisa overhears Joe’s conversation with Lily Dyer, revealing his doubts and concerns about their impending marriage. This confrontation shatters Louisa’s illusions and forces her to confront the possibility of an uncertain future.
3. Gender Roles and Expectations: “A New England Nun” also explores traditional gender roles and societal expectations placed upon women. Louisa adheres to traditional domestic duties and displays exceptional skill in maintaining her household. However, her impending marriage threatens to disrupt her established routines and independence. Louisa’s decision to maintain her autonomy reflects her resistance to conforming to societal expectations of women in marriage. Additionally, Lily Dyer’s character challenges traditional gender norms with her assertiveness and refusal to conform to romantic expectations.
4. Self-Discovery and Empowerment: Throughout the story, Louisa undergoes a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Initially content with her solitary life, Louisa confronts her fears and reevaluates her priorities in the face of uncertainty. Her decision to call off the wedding signifies her agency and newfound sense of self-awareness. By asserting her independence and choosing to preserve her solitary lifestyle, Louisa embraces her own desires and takes control of her future, demonstrating her empowerment as a woman.

Writing Style in “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

1. Realism: The story is set in a realistic, everyday environment, depicting the mundane life of a solitary woman in a small New England town.
2. Simple and concise language: Freeman uses straightforward, uncomplicated language to convey the story, mirroring Louisa’s plain and unadorned life.
3. Descriptive details: The author incorporates vivid descriptions of Louisa’s home, garden, and daily routines, creating a strong sense of setting and atmosphere.
4. Symbolism: Freeman employs symbols like the still, the garden, and the china to represent Louisa’s independence, solitude, and fear of change.
5. Psychological insight: The story offers a nuanced exploration of Louisa’s inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations, providing a deep understanding of her character.
6. Subtle humor: Freeman injects gentle humor through Joe’s clumsiness and Louisa’s reactions, adding a touch of lightness to the narrative.
7. Slow pace: The story unfolds at a leisurely pace, mirroring Louisa’s measured and deliberate movements, and building a sense of quiet tension.
8. Domestic focus: The narrative centers on Louisa’s domestic life, emphasizing her daily routines and household concerns, which were significant aspects of women’s lives during that era.
9. Character-driven narrative: The story is driven by Louisa’s character and her inner conflicts, making her the focal point of the narrative.
10. Themes: Freeman explores themes of independence, solitude, change, and the constraints of societal expectations, which were relevant to women’s experiences during the late 19th century.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

1. Feminist Theory: From a feminist perspective, the story explores the constraints of traditional gender roles and societal expectations placed upon women. Louisa Ellis’s character embodies the struggles and limitations imposed by these roles. She is expected to conform to the domestic sphere and sacrifice her independence upon marriage. However, Louisa’s decision to maintain her solitary lifestyle challenges these expectations and asserts her autonomy. For instance, her meticulous routines and dedication to domestic tasks symbolize her adherence to traditional gender roles, yet her ultimate choice to call off the wedding demonstrates her agency and resistance to patriarchal norms.
2. Psychoanalytic Theory: Through a psychoanalytic lens, the story can be interpreted as a manifestation of repressed desires and unconscious conflicts. Louisa’s prolonged engagement and seemingly contented solitude may symbolize a subconscious resistance to intimacy and commitment. Her meticulous routines and fixation on domestic tasks could be seen as displacement activities, masking deeper anxieties about change and the unknown. Similarly, Joe Dagget’s return and the revelation of his doubts about marriage may trigger Louisa’s latent fears and insecurities, prompting her to confront her inner conflicts and desires.
3. Marxist Theory: Marxist theory examines social class dynamics and economic structures within literature. In “A New England Nun,” class distinctions are subtly portrayed through the characters’ interactions and aspirations. Louisa Ellis represents the lower middle class, while Joe Dagget’s return as a successful man from the West highlights disparities in social mobility. The potential marriage between Louisa and Joe raises questions about financial stability and social status, as well as the power dynamics inherent in such relationships. Louisa’s decision to maintain her independence can be viewed as a form of resistance against economic dependence and societal expectations tied to marriage.
4. Reader-Response Theory: Reader-response theory emphasizes the role of the reader in interpreting and constructing meaning from a text. In “A New England Nun,” readers may engage with the story’s themes of isolation, independence, and self-discovery based on their own experiences and perspectives. Some readers may sympathize with Louisa’s desire for independence and admire her strength in asserting her autonomy. Others may view her decision to call off the wedding as selfish or unrealistic. Reader responses can vary widely depending on individual interpretations and personal values, enriching the complexity of the story’s meaning.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
Independence vs. Marriage	How does Louisa’s independence conflict with her expected role as a wife?	Louisa’s reluctance to marry Joe stems from her desire to preserve her independence and autonomy, which she believes will be compromised by marriage.
Gender Roles and Expectations	How do societal expectations of women influence Louisa’s decisions and actions?	The story highlights the restrictive gender roles of the time, as Louisa faces pressure to conform to traditional feminine norms, threatening her individuality and freedom.
Change and Uncertainty	How does Louisa respond to the prospect of change and uncertainty in her life?	Louisa’s fear of change and uncertainty drives her resistance to marrying Joe, as she clings to her familiar solitary life and routines, illustrating the human struggle with adapting to new circumstances.
Symbolism and Setting	How does the author use setting and symbolism to convey Louisa’s character and themes?	The author employs the still, garden, and china as symbols of Louisa’s independence, solitude, and fear of change, while the New England setting reinforces the story’s themes of tradition and societal expectations.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

Literary Works Similar to “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

1. “Ethan Frome” by Edith Wharton: Like “A New England Nun,” “Ethan Frome” is set in rural New England and explores themes of isolation, duty, and societal expectations. The novella delves into the lives of Ethan Frome and his wife Zeena, as well as their houseguest Mattie Silver, revealing the consequences of unfulfilled desires and repressed emotions.
2. The Awakening by Kate Chopin: This novel centers on Edna Pontellier, a woman who grapples with the confines of marriage and motherhood in late 19th-century Louisiana. Like Louisa Ellis in “A New England Nun,” Edna seeks autonomy and self-discovery amidst societal expectations, ultimately challenging traditional gender roles and norms.
3. “Winesburg, Ohio” by Sherwood Anderson: This collection of interconnected short stories depicts life in a small town in Ohio, exploring the struggles and desires of its inhabitants. Like Mary E. Wilkins Freeman’s work, “Winesburg, Ohio” delves into the complexities of human relationships, loneliness, and the search for meaning in a provincial setting.
4. “My Ántonia” by Willa Cather: Set in the American Midwest, “My Ántonia” follows the life of Jim Burden and his relationship with Ántonia Shimerda, a young immigrant woman. The novel examines themes of nostalgia, immigration, and the American Dream, offering a poignant portrayal of life on the frontier.
5. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: This short story explores themes of confinement, mental illness, and female oppression in the late 19th century. Like “A New England Nun,” it delves into the psychological effects of societal expectations and the constraints placed upon women during that time period.

Suggested Readings about/on “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

• Freeman, Mary E. Wilkins. A New-England Nun: And Other Stories. Penguin, 2000.
• Oaks, Susan. “The haunting will: The ghost stories of Mary Wilkins Freeman.” Colby Quarterly 21.4 (1985): 6.
• Reichardt, Mary R. The Uncollected Stories of Mary Wilkins Freeman. Univ. Press of Mississippi, 1992.
• Reichardt, Mary R. “Mary Wilkins Freeman: One Hundred Years of Criticism.” Legacy (1987): 31-44.
• Brand, Alice Glarden. “Mary Wilkins Freeman: Misanthropy as Propaganda.” New England Quarterly (1977): 83-100.
• Blum, Virginia L. “Mary Wilkins Freeman and the Taste of Necessity.” American Literature 65.1 (1993): 69-94.
• https://www.britannica.com/biography/Mary-Eleanor-Wilkins-Freeman
• http://www.lib.luc.edu/specialcollections/exhibits/show/autograph-collection/mary-e–wilkins-freeman
• https://njwomenshistory.org/biographies/mary-e-wilkins-freeman-2/

Representative Quotations from “A New England Nun” by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“It was late in the afternoon, and the light was waning. There was a difference in the look of the tree shadows out in the yard. Somewhere in the distance cows were lowing and a little bell was tinkling; now and then a farm-wagon tilted by, and the dust flew; some blue-shirted laborers with shovels over their shoulders plodded past; little swarms of flies were dancing up and down before the peoples’ faces in the soft air. There seemed to be a gentle stir arising over everything for the mere sake of subsidence — a very premonition of rest and hush and night.”	This opening passage sets the tranquil scene, depicting the peaceful atmosphere of a late afternoon in a rural setting. The description of various elements of nature and human activity creates a serene backdrop against which the story unfolds.	The calm and serene setting established in the opening lines foreshadows the theme of peace and quiet that dominates Louisa Ellis’s life. It sets the stage for the introspective and contemplative nature of the narrative, reflecting the subdued tone and pace of the story.
“Louisa Ellis could not remember that ever in her life she had mislaid one of these little feminine appurtenances, which had become, from long use and constant association, a very part of her personality.”	This sentence describes Louisa’s meticulous nature and attention to detail, particularly in her domestic life. It emphasizes her adherence to routine and the comfort she finds in familiar habits and objects.	The quotation underscores Louisa’s deeply ingrained sense of order and routine, highlighting her attachment to the familiar and her resistance to change. It foreshadows her reluctance to disrupt the stability of her life, even when faced with unexpected events or decisions.
“Louisa used china every day — something which none of her neighbors did. They whispered about it among themselves. Their daily tables were laid with common crockery, their sets of best china stayed in the parlor closet, and Louisa Ellis was no richer nor better bred than they. Still she would use the china.”	This passage reveals Louisa’s adherence to tradition and her willingness to defy social norms in favor of her own preferences. Despite societal expectations, she chooses to use her best china daily, finding value in the beauty and elegance it brings to her everyday life.	The quotation highlights Louisa’s autonomy and independence, suggesting her willingness to assert her individuality and resist conformity. It serves as a symbol of her determination to live according to her own standards, regardless of external judgment or criticism.
“Presently Dagget began fingering the books on the table. There was a square red autograph album, and a Young Lady’s Gift-Book which had belonged to Louisa’s mother. He took them up one after the other and opened them; then laid them down again, the album on the Gift-Book. Louisa kept eying them with mild uneasiness.”	Joe Dagget’s actions reveal his lack of awareness or consideration for Louisa’s personal space and belongings. His casual handling of her cherished possessions contrasts with her careful preservation of them, causing her discomfort and unease.	This moment symbolizes the differences between Louisa and Joe, highlighting their contrasting attitudes towards tradition, sentimentality, and personal boundaries. It foreshadows the tension and misunderstandings that arise between them as their relationship evolves.
“Joe’s consternation came later. He eyed Louisa with an instant confirmation of his old admiration. She had changed but little. She still kept her pretty manner and soft grace, and was, he considered, every whit as attractive as ever.”	Joe’s reaction to seeing Louisa again after many years underscores his enduring affection for her and his perception of her as a constant presence in his life. Despite the passage of time and the changes they have both undergone, his admiration for her remains unchanged.	This moment highlights the theme of constancy and continuity in the face of change. It suggests that while external circumstances may shift, the essence of their relationship and the feelings they have for each other endure over time.
“Louisa sat there in a daze, listening to their retreating steps. After a while she got up and slunk softly home herself. The next day she did her housework methodically; that was as much a matter of course as breathing; but she did not sew on her wedding-clothes. She sat at her window and meditated.”	This passage captures Louisa’s internal turmoil and indecision following her eavesdropping on Joe and Lily’s conversation. It reveals her uncertainty about her impending marriage and her need for introspection and reflection.	The quotation reflects Louisa’s internal conflict and her struggle to reconcile her sense of duty with her personal desires. It marks a pivotal moment in the story where she begins to question the path she has chosen and consider alternative possibilities for her future.
“Louisa could sew linen seams, and distil roses, and dust and polish and fold away in lavender, as long as she listed. That afternoon she sat with her needlework at the window, and felt fairly steeped in peace.”	This closing passage depicts Louisa’s acceptance of her decision and her return to a state of tranquility and contentment. Despite the upheaval and uncertainty she has experienced, she finds solace in the familiar rhythms of her daily life and the comfort of her domestic surroundings.	The quotation symbolizes Louisa’s embrace of her chosen path and her reaffirmation of her commitment to her own values and priorities. It suggests that, ultimately, she finds fulfillment and happiness in maintaining her autonomy and staying true to herself.