“A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

“A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett first appeared in print in 1886, included within the collection “A White Heron and Other Stories.” The story exemplifies Jewett’s signature style, characterized by a blend of meticulous realism and subtle symbolism. It delves into the complex inner world of a young protagonist caught between loyalty to a visitor and a burgeoning connection to the natural world she holds dear. Jewett’s masterful prose brings the idyllic Maine landscape vividly to life, while the central conflict invites readers to engage with the moral compass of a young mind navigating a difficult choice.

Main Events: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

1. A Young Girl Finds Purpose in Nature: Sylvia, a young girl from a crowded city, finds a new life and deep sense of belonging amidst the natural beauty of her grandmother’s rural farm.
2. Connection to the Wild: Sylvia develops a strong bond with nature. She tames squirrels, understands the rhythms of the forest, and even feels a sense of kinship with the creatures that inhabit it.
3. A Chance Encounter A friendly young ornithologist arrives at the farm while lost on a hunting expedition. He seeks a rare white heron to add to his collection.
4. Sylvia’s Knowledge of the Heron: Sylvia, through her intimate connection with the woods, knows the secret location of the white heron’s nest.
5. A Tempting Offer: The ornithologist offers Sylvia a significant sum of money ($10, a very large amount at the time) if she’ll reveal the heron’s location.
6. A Deepening Bond: Sylvia spends the day with the ornithologist, learning about birds and becoming enchanted by his knowledge and charm.
7. Dream of Possibility: Sylvia dreams of a different future – one filled with the treasures the money could buy, and perhaps a blossoming affection for the young man.
8. Pre-Dawn Mission: Eager to be the hero and change her own life, Sylvia climbs the great pine at dawn, hoping to find the heron’s nest before anyone else.
9. Moment of Discovery: In a breathtaking scene, Sylvia witnesses the majestic heron soaring near its nest amidst the dazzling sunrise.
10. An Impossible Choice: Sylvia faces an agonizing conflict between her loyalty to the wild creature and the life-changing opportunity the money represents.
11. Silent Loyalty: When confronted by the eager ornithologist and her grandmother, Sylvia chooses to protect the heron’s secret, even if it means sacrificing a brighter future for herself.
12. Haunting Regret: Sylvia feels a sense of loss over the unfulfilled possibilities, hearing the ornithologist’s lingering whistle as a reminder of what could have been.
13. Betrayal of the Wild: While still mourning the lost opportunity, Sylvia experiences additional pain when the ornithologist shoots other birds, starkly reminding her of the violence inherent in his pursuits.
14. Nature’s Comfort: Despite the difficult choice, Sylvia ultimately finds acceptance and solace in the natural world that has become her true home.
15. Enduring Theme: The story underscores the profound impact of the natural world on a young life, as well as the difficult moral dilemmas that can arise when personal dreams clash with one’s deepest values.

Literary Devices: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Device	Explanation	Example from the Story
Anthropomorphism	Attributing human qualities to animals	“There was a stirring in the great boughs overhead. They were full of little birds and beasts that seemed to be wide-awake…” (Paragraph 1)
Characterization	Development of a character’s personality and traits	“Sylvia, a wistful child with a heart that beat fast with pleasure…” (Paragraph 1)
Foreshadowing	Hints about future events	“…thought often with wistful compassion of a wretched dry geranium that belonged to a town neighbor. ‘Afraid of folks,’…” (Paragraph 1)
Hyperbole	Exaggeration for emphasis	“…the wary animal herself had given an unusual signal of her whereabouts…” (Paragraph 1)
Imagery	Vivid descriptions that engage the senses	“…the great twilight moths struck softly against her. She waded on through the brook…” (Paragraph 1)
Metaphor	A comparison between two things that are not alike but share a similar characteristic	“The companions followed the shady wood-road, the cow taking slow steps, and the child very fast ones…” (Paragraph 1)
Metonymy	Substituting something associated with a thing for the thing itself	“The stranger stood his gun beside the door, and dropped a heavy game-bag beside it…” (Paragraph 3)
Onomatopoeia	Words that imitate sounds	“…the whippoorwills came and sang upon the very step…” (Paragraph 6)
Personification	Giving human qualities to inanimate objects	“The good woman suspected that Sylvia loitered occasionally on her own account; there never was such a child for straying about out-of-doors since the world was made!” (Paragraph 1)
Point of View	The perspective from which the story is narrated	The story is told in third-person limited point of view, primarily focusing on Sylvia’s thoughts and feelings.
Simile	A comparison between two things using “like” or “as”	“…her bare feet cool themselves in the shoal water, while the great twilight moths struck softly against her like feathers.” (Paragraph 1)
Symbolism	Objects or actions that carry a deeper meaning	* The white heron can symbolize nature’s beauty and freedom. * The tall pine tree Sylvia climbs can represent her ambition and desire to see the world.
Theme	A central message or underlying meaning	The story explores themes of connection to nature, the importance of loyalty, and the difficult choices we face between personal gain and the greater good.
Understatement	Downplaying the seriousness of a situation	“Sylvia wondered what her grandmother would say because they were so late.” (Paragraph 1)
Euphemism	Using a mild expression to avoid something harsh	“…passed away the summer evenings herself…” (Paragraph 1) (Referring to someone who died)
Flashback	A brief return to an earlier event	“Dan, my boy, was a great hand to go gunning. I never wanted for pa’tridges or gray squer’ls while he was to home…” (Paragraph 3)
Foreshadowing	Hints about future events	“…thought often with wistful compassion of a wretched dry geranium that belonged to a town neighbor. ‘Afraid of folks,’…” (Paragraph 1)
Juxtaposition	Placing contrasting ideas or elements side-by-side	Sylvia’s love for the natural world is contrasted with the ornithologist’s desire to kill birds for his collection.

Characterization: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Major Characters:

• Sylvia: The protagonist, a young girl who has recently moved from the city to her grandmother’s farm.
•  Example: “Sylvia, a wistful child with a heart that beat fast with pleasure…” (Paragraph 1) This quote highlights Sylvia’s curiosity and connection to nature.
• The Ornithologist: A visitor from the city, interested in hunting and collecting birds.
  • Example: “The stranger…stood his gun beside the door, and dropped a heavy game-bag beside it…” (Paragraph 3) This detail portrays the ornithologist’s profession and purpose for being in the rural area.

Minor Characters:

• Mrs. Tilley: Sylvia’s grandmother, a practical woman who runs the farm.
  • Example: “The good woman suspected that Sylvia loitered occasionally on her own account…there never was such a child for straying about out-of-doors…” (Paragraph 1) This quote reveals Mrs. Tilley’s awareness of Sylvia’s independent spirit.
• Mistress Moolly: Sylvia’s pet cow, a companion for her explorations.
  • Example: “The companions followed the shady wood-road, the cow taking slow steps, and the child very fast ones…” (Paragraph 1) This detail depicts Mistress Moolly as Sylvia’s constant companion despite their different paces.

Characterization Techniques:

• Direct Description: The author directly tells us about the characters’ traits and personalities. (Examples above)
• Speech: The way characters speak reveals their personality and background. (e.g., The ornithologist’s use of hunting terms)
• Actions: The characters’ choices and actions show their values and motivations. (e.g., Sylvia’s decision to protect the heron)
• Thoughts: In limited third-person narration, we get glimpses into Sylvia’s thoughts and feelings. (e.g., Sylvia’s internal conflict about the money)

Major Themes: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

1. Connection to Nature: The story emphasizes Sylvia’s deep bond with the natural world.
2. Example: Sylvia’s exploration of the woods, her connection with the animals (taming squirrels, feeling kinship with the heron), and her sense of belonging in the rural environment all showcase this theme. (Paragraph 1)
3. Conflict Between Nature and Civilization: The contrast between Sylvia’s love for nature and the ornithologist’s desire to possess the heron represents a clash between the natural world and human intervention.
   • Example: Sylvia’s internal struggle between revealing the heron’s location for money (representing civilization’s influence) and protecting the creature (representing her connection to nature) highlights this conflict.
4. Difficult Choices and Moral Dilemmas: Sylvia faces a challenging decision – personal gain through money versus protecting the heron and her loyalty to nature.
   • Example: The temptation of the $10 offered by the ornithologist creates a moral dilemma for Sylvia. She must weigh her own desires against her inherent respect for the natural world.
5. Loss of Innocence and the Importance of Loyalty: As Sylvia grapples with the decision, she experiences a loss of innocence, realizing the complexities of the adult world.
   • Example: Choosing to protect the heron demonstrates Sylvia’s loyalty to her values and her connection to nature, even though it means sacrificing a potential financial gain.

These themes are central to the story’s plot and character development. They explore the impact of nature on human lives, the consequences of human actions on the environment, and the moral choices we face as we grow and mature.

Writing Style: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

• Local Color: Jewett is considered a master of local color, a literary movement that focused on capturing the unique character and details of a specific region. In this story, she vividly portrays the natural beauty of the Maine woods and the lifestyle of rural New Englanders.
• Simple and Direct Language: Jewett uses clear, concise prose that is easy to read. She avoids overly complex sentences or flowery language, allowing the story and characters to shine through.
• Vivid Descriptions: Despite the simplicity of her language, Jewett paints evocative pictures with her words. She describes the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world, creating a strong sense of place for the reader. (e.g., “The twilight moths struck softly against her like feathers”)
• Third-Person Limited Point of View: The story is told in third-person limited point of view, primarily focusing on Sylvia’s thoughts and feelings. This allows the reader to connect with Sylvia and understand her internal struggles.
• Subtlety and Emotional Nuance: Jewett excels at conveying complex emotions and moral dilemmas with a light touch. She doesn’t overstate Sylvia’s feelings, but allows the reader to infer them through her actions and internal monologue.
• Focus on Dialogue: The dialogue in the story feels natural and realistic, revealing the characters’ personalities and motivations.

Literary Theories and Interpretation: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Literary Theory	Interpretation of “A White Heron”	Example from the Story
Ecocriticism	Examines the relationship between literature and the environment.	Sylvia’s deep connection to the natural world and her struggle to protect the heron highlight the value of nature and the potential harm of human intervention. (e.g., Sylvia’s exploration of the woods, her internal conflict about revealing the heron’s location)
Coming-of-Age	Focuses on a character’s journey from childhood to adulthood.	Sylvia’s decision to protect the heron, despite the temptation of money, represents a moment of maturity and a recognition of her own moral compass. (e.g., Sylvia’s internal struggle and her choice to prioritize nature)
Gender Studies	Explores the roles, experiences, and identities of women.	Sylvia’s independence and her defiance against the expectations of the male ornithologist can be seen as a commentary on societal limitations for women at the time. (e.g., Sylvia’s comfort in nature contrasting with the “wary animal” description, hinting at societal constraints)
Psychoanalysis	Analyzes the characters’ motivations and behaviors through the lens of the unconscious mind.	Sylvia’s fear of “folks” and her connection to the wild heron could be interpreted as a subconscious rebellion against societal norms and a desire for freedom. (e.g., Sylvia’s initial fearfulness and her later defiance)

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements: “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
Connection to Nature	How does Sylvia’s relationship with the natural world shape her character and the story’s conflict?	Sylvia’s deep connection to nature in “A White Heron” not only serves as a source of comfort and belonging but also compels her to make a difficult moral choice that reveals her strength and evolving identity.
Loss of Innocence	Does Sylvia truly lose her innocence in the story, or does she gain a new understanding of the world?	While “A White Heron” presents Sylvia confronting a challenging moral dilemma, her decision to protect the heron demonstrates a growth in maturity and a deeper understanding of the complexities of the world, rather than a complete loss of innocence.
The Role of Money	How does the temptation of money affect Sylvia’s values and her relationship with the natural world?	The offer of money in “A White Heron” creates an internal conflict for Sylvia, forcing her to confront the materialistic desires of the outside world and ultimately reaffirming the value she places on the natural world and her own moral compass.
Symbolism	Analyze the symbolism of the white heron and its significance in the story.	The white heron in “A White Heron” symbolizes the beauty and freedom of the natural world that Sylvia cherishes. Protecting the heron becomes a symbolic act of protecting her own connection to nature and defying the intrusion of the “civilized” world.

Short Questions/Answers about“A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Literary Works Similar to “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

1. The Awakening by Kate Chopin: Like “A White Heron,” this novella explores the conflict between human desires and the natural world. Set in Louisiana, it follows the journey of Edna Pontellier as she seeks freedom and self-discovery amidst societal constraints and expectations.
2. “Walden” by Henry David Thoreau: Thoreau’s classic work is a meditation on simple living in natural surroundings. It reflects on the beauty and simplicity of nature and the importance of living deliberately and in harmony with the environment.
3. My Ántonia by Willa Cather: This novel captures the beauty and challenges of life on the American frontier. Through the eyes of Jim Burden, the story explores the bond between settlers and the land, as well as the immigrant experience and the resilience of the human spirit.
4. “The Open Boat” by Stephen Crane: This short story, based on Crane’s own experience, follows four men stranded at sea in a small boat. It reflects on themes of fate, existentialism, and humanity’s struggle against the indifferent forces of nature.
5. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston: Set in early 20th-century Florida, this novel tells the story of Janie Crawford’s journey to self-discovery and empowerment. Like “A White Heron,” it explores themes of nature, femininity, and the search for identity in a changing world.

Suggested Readings about/on “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

*Books:

Jewett, Sarah Orne. A white heron and other stories. Courier Corporation, 2012.

Articles:

• Griffith Jr, Kelley. “Sylvia as Hero in Sarah Orne Jewett’s” A White Heron”.” Colby Quarterly 21.1 (1985): 5.
• Atkinson, Michael. “The Necessary Extravagance of Sarah Orne Jewett: Voices of Authority in” A White Heron”.” Studies in Short Fiction 19.1 (1982): 71.
• Smith, Gayle L. “The Language of Transcendence in Sarah Orne Jewett’s” A White Heron”.” Colby Quarterly 19.1 (1983): 6.
• Jewett, Sarah Orne. “A White Heron.” 1886.” The Country of the Pointed Firs and Other Stories (1994): 227-39.
• Ammons, Elizabeth. “The Shape of Violence in Jewett’s” A White Heron”.” Colby Quarterly 22.1 (1986): 3.

Websites:

• The Sarah Orne Jewett Society https://www.geni.com/people/Sarah-Orne-Jewett/6000000002896872871 ([Accessed April 17, 2024]) This website is a valuable resource for all things Jewett, including biographical information, critical essays, and links to her works.
• “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett https://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/webpub/english/artandcraftoffiction1e/Fiction-11_short_stories/Jewett%20A%20White%20Heron.pdf ([Accessed April 17, 2024]) This website provides the full text of “A White Heron” along with some basic critical analysis.

Quotes from “A White Heron” by Sarah Orne Jewett

Quote	Context	Theorization
“The woods were already filled with shadows one June evening, just before eight o’clock, though a bright sunset still glimmered faintly among the trunks of the trees.”	The story begins with Sylvia, a young girl, leading her cow home through the woods. The setting is a rural area in Maine, and the time is evening. Sylvia’s familiarity with the woods is established.	This quote sets the scene, establishing the tranquil, natural environment where much of the story unfolds. It also hints at the passage of time, with the onset of evening shadows contrasting with the lingering brightness of the sunset, symbolizing the transition from innocence to experience.
“Suddenly this little woods-girl is horror-stricken to hear a clear whistle not very far away.”	Sylvia becomes alarmed when she hears a boy’s whistle nearby. She hides in the bushes, but the boy spots her and approaches.	This moment marks a turning point in the story as Sylvia’s peaceful solitude is disrupted by the intrusion of an outsider. The whistle symbolizes the intrusion of civilization into the natural world and foreshadows the conflict between Sylvia’s loyalty to nature and her desire for human connection.
“There, when she made the dangerous pass from one tree to the other, the great enterprise would really begin.”	Sylvia embarks on a daring climb from one tree to another, aiming to reach the top of the tallest pine to view the landscape.	This quote captures Sylvia’s adventurous spirit and determination to achieve her goal. It symbolizes her quest for knowledge and connection with nature, as well as her symbolic ascent from innocence to experience. The perilous climb represents the challenges she faces in navigating her own growth and understanding of the world.
“She grieved because the longed-for white heron was elusive, but she did not lead the guest, she only followed.”	Sylvia, accompanied by a young man who seeks the rare white heron, feels conflicted about revealing its location.	This quote reflects Sylvia’s internal struggle between loyalty to nature and the temptation of material gain offered by the stranger. Despite her desire to please him, she ultimately chooses to protect the heron and its habitat, demonstrating her deep bond with the natural world and her integrity in preserving its secrets.
“What a spirit of adventure, what wild ambition! What fancied triumph and delight and glory…”	Sylvia’s excitement and determination are evident as she plans to climb the pine tree to view the world from its top.	This quote highlights Sylvia’s youthful enthusiasm and imagination. It underscores her longing for exploration and discovery, as well as her sense of accomplishment in pursuing her dreams. It also foreshadows the conflict she faces when her ideals clash with the realities of human interaction and moral dilemmas.
“Sylvia’s face was like a pale star, if one had seen it from the ground, when the last thorny bough was past…”	Sylvia reaches the top of the pine tree and experiences a moment of triumph as she beholds the expansive landscape below.	This quote illustrates Sylvia’s awe and wonder as she surveys the world from her lofty vantage point. It symbolizes her connection with nature and her sense of belonging within the natural environment. The imagery of her face shining like a star suggests her inner radiance and the fulfillment she finds in communing with the wilderness.
“But Sylvia does not speak after all, though the old grandmother fretfully rebukes her, and the young man’s kind appealing eyes are looking straight in her own.”	Despite pressure from her grandmother and the young man, Sylvia chooses not to reveal the location of the white heron’s nest.	This quote highlights Sylvia’s moral dilemma and her ultimate decision to prioritize her loyalty to nature over human desires. It underscores her integrity and strength of character in standing by her principles, even in the face of external pressure. It also symbolizes the innocence and purity of her connection with the natural world, which she refuses to compromise for personal gain.
“The guest waked from a dream, and remembering his day’s pleasure hurried to dress himself that it might sooner begin.”	The young man, disappointed by Sylvia’s silence about the heron’s nest, prepares to depart.	This quote suggests the young man’s superficial interest in nature, as he quickly moves on from his disappointment to pursue other pursuits. It contrasts with Sylvia’s deep and enduring connection with the natural world, emphasizing her authenticity and integrity in contrast to the fleeting desires of the outsider.
“Here she comes now, paler than ever, and her worn old frock is torn and tattered, and smeared with pine pitch.”	Sylvia returns home, physically exhausted but morally resolved, after her climb to the pine tree.	This quote symbolizes Sylvia’s transformation through her encounter with nature. Her physical appearance reflects the challenges she faced during her quest, but her inner strength and integrity remain intact. It underscores her resilience and determination in preserving the sanctity of the natural world, even at personal cost.
“Dear loyalty, that suffered a sharp pang as the guest went away disappointed later in the day…”	Sylvia’s loyalty to nature and her refusal to betray the white heron’s secret bring both pain and fulfillment.	This quote encapsulates Sylvia’s sacrifice and the bittersweet nature of her decision. While she experiences a sense of loss and longing, her loyalty to nature brings her a deeper sense of purpose and connection. It underscores the theme of integrity and the rewards of remaining true to one’s principles, even in the face of external pressures.