“The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

“The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White was first published in 1915 in the collection “The Camp-Fire” and has since become a classic of American literature. This short story showcases White’s exceptional storytelling skills, as it masterfully weaves together elements of adventure, romance, and humor. The tale follows a young woman’s journey through the American West, where she faces various challenges and learns valuable lessons about resilience, courage, and the importance of staying true to oneself. The story’s good qualities include its vivid descriptions of the natural landscape, its well-developed characters, and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for the pioneering spirit of the American West. Overall, “The Girl Who Got Rattled” is a captivating and inspiring tale that continues to delight readers to this day.

Main Events in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

Event	Details
Introduction of Alfred	– Alfred, a bashful and diminutive man, is described as an exceptional scout and fighter, despite his shyness around women.
Caldwell’s Journey to Deadwood	– Caldwell, accompanied by his daughter and fiancé, sets out for Deadwood. Alfred and Billy Knapp join as guides.
Alfred’s discomfort with Allen	– Alfred feels uncomfortable around Allen and Miss Caldwell, who tease him.
Challenges of the journey	– The journey starts exciting but becomes monotonous and uncomfortable over time. Miss Caldwell becomes impatient.
Miss Caldwell’s desire for freedom	– Miss Caldwell longs for solitude and freedom from the constraints of the wagon-train.
Miss Caldwell’s impulsive decision	– Miss Caldwell decides to ride out with Allen for a race, ignoring Alfred’s warnings.
Alfred’s discovery of danger	– Alfred notices signs of approaching danger, including hoof prints and a blue bead, indicating the presence of Sioux Indians.
Alfred’s decision to protect	– Alfred resolves to find Miss Caldwell after she rides off alone and warns the others of the danger.
Confrontation with the Sioux	– Alfred finds Miss Caldwell and prepares for a confrontation with Sioux warriors.
Alfred’s plan to defend	– Alfred explains his plan to Miss Caldwell, including using their last bullets to avoid capture if necessary.
The Sioux attack	– The Sioux warriors charge towards Alfred and Miss Caldwell, firing their guns and yelling.
Alfred’s strategy to deter	– Alfred holds his fire until the last moment, causing the Sioux warriors to hesitate and veer away.
Tragic outcome	– Miss Caldwell, mistaking Alfred’s fall for his capture, shoots herself to avoid capture by the Sioux.
Alfred’s reaction to the tragedy	– Alfred is devastated by Miss Caldwell’s death and blames himself for not being able to protect her.
Resolution	– Alfred retaliates against the Sioux, killing several before the wagon-train arrives, ending the confrontation.

Literary Devices in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

Literary Device	Example	Explanation
1. Characterization	“Alfred was a little man, and he was bashful.”	Through characterization, the author describes Alfred as a shy and diminutive individual, providing insight into his personality traits.
2. Foreshadowing	Alfred notices signs of approaching danger, including hoof prints and a blue bead, indicating the presence of Sioux Indians.	Foreshadowing hints at future events, building tension and anticipation in the story. In this case, it suggests imminent danger and conflict with the Sioux warriors.
3. Irony	Miss Caldwell expresses a longing for freedom from the wagon-train’s confines, yet her impulsive decision leads to danger.	Irony occurs when there is a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. Miss Caldwell’s desire for freedom ironically leads to a perilous situation.
4. Symbolism	The prairie-dog town symbolizes both a place of refuge and danger, where Miss Caldwell finds herself before the Sioux attack.	Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts. The prairie-dog town represents both safety and peril, reflecting the dual nature of the setting.
5. Imagery	“The breeze and the sun played with the prairie grasses…”	Imagery creates vivid mental images through descriptive language, appealing to the senses of the reader and enhancing the atmosphere of the scene.
6. Allusion	Alfred’s reference to “old Lone Pine” hints at his familiarity with the region and its inhabitants.	Allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance.
7. Conflict	Alfred confronts the conflict between his shyness and his duty to protect Miss Caldwell from danger.	Conflict is a literary element that involves a struggle between opposing forces, driving the narrative forward and adding tension to the story.
8. Suspense	Alfred’s discovery of danger and his subsequent search for Miss Caldwell create suspense as the reader anticipates the outcome.	Suspense is the intense feeling of anticipation or excitement that keeps readers engaged and eager to know what will happen next in the story.
9. Metaphor	“The whole band swoops and divides, like a flock of swift-winged terns on a windy day.”	A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things by stating that one thing is another. This metaphor compares the movement of the Sioux warriors to birds in flight.
10. Dialogue	Conversations between characters, such as Alfred’s interaction with Miss Caldwell and the Sioux warriors.	Dialogue is the conversation between characters in a literary work, providing insight into their personalities, motivations, and relationships.
11. Flashback	Alfred remembers past experiences and skills as he prepares to confront the Sioux warriors.	A flashback is a literary device that interrupts the chronological order of a narrative to provide information about events that occurred earlier in time.
12. Mood	The tense and apprehensive mood created by Alfred’s discovery of danger and the impending confrontation with the Sioux.	Mood is the atmosphere or feeling created by a literary work, influencing the reader’s emotional response and perception of the story’s events.
13. Simile	“Each Indian pops away for general results as he comes jumping along, and yells shrilly to show what a big warrior he is…”	A simile is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things using “like” or “as.” This simile compares the Sioux warriors’ actions to popping and jumping along.
14. Theme	Themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the unpredictability of life emerge as Alfred and Miss Caldwell face danger on the prairie.	Theme is the central idea or message conveyed by a literary work, reflecting universal truths or insights into the human experience.
15. Personification	“The ponies came skipping here and there, nimbly dodging in and out between the dog-holes.”	Personification attributes human qualities or characteristics to non-human entities, enhancing the description and creating a vivid image.
16. Tone	The tone shifts from lightheartedness to tension and apprehension as the story progresses towards the confrontation with the Sioux.	Tone is the attitude of the author towards the subject matter or audience, influencing the overall mood and interpretation of the story.
17. Motif	Motifs of courage, survival, and the wilderness recur throughout the story, reinforcing its themes and central conflicts.	A motif is a recurring element or pattern in a literary work that contributes to its overall structure, symbolism, or thematic development.
18. Hyperbole	“The air is throbbing with sound.”	Hyperbole is an exaggeration or overstatement used for emphasis or effect, intensifying the sensory experience described in the narrative.
19. Epiphany	Alfred experiences a moment of self-realization and determination as he prepares to confront the Sioux warriors.	An epiphany is a sudden realization or insight experienced by a character, leading to a significant change in their perspective, beliefs, or actions.
20. Parallelism	Alfred’s skills as a scout and fighter parallel his inner conflict between shyness and duty, highlighting his resilience and bravery.	Parallelism is the use of similar grammatical structures, phrases, or ideas to create balance and rhythm in writing, emphasizing important themes or contrasts.

Characterization in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

Major Characters:

• Alfred: Alfred is a diminutive and bashful man, often underestimated due to his small stature and shy demeanor. Despite his outward appearance, he possesses remarkable skills as a scout and fighter, capable of reading the prairie like a book and handling himself adeptly in challenging situations. His innate courtesy and diffidence sometimes hinder his assertiveness, particularly in the presence of women, but his resourcefulness and courage shine through when the situation demands it.
• Miss Caldwell: Miss Caldwell exudes a determined and adventurous spirit, eager to embrace the thrill of “roughing it” in the journey to Deadwood. Her enthusiasm for outdoor life contrasts with her refined upbringing, showcasing her willingness to challenge societal norms and seek excitement beyond the comforts of civilization. While initially carefree and spirited, her experiences on the journey test her resilience and reveal deeper layers of her character.

Minor Characters:

• Allen: Allen epitomizes the archetype of the laid-back and somewhat careless young man, who, while enjoying the adventure of the journey, often disregards the feelings and sensitivities of others. His teasing and impertinent behavior towards Alfred and Miss Caldwell highlight his lack of consideration for their perspectives, adding tension to their interactions within the group.
• Billy Knapp: Billy Knapp emerges as a steadfast and pragmatic figure, characterized by his imperturbable demeanor and authoritative presence. As a companion to Alfred, he shares responsibility for maintaining order and discipline within the group, albeit with a certain rigidity that occasionally clashes with the desires of the other travelers. His role as a guide and protector underscores his commitment to ensuring the safety of the expedition.
• Caldwell Senior: Caldwell Senior embodies the role of the indulgent and supportive patriarch, accompanying his daughter on the journey to Deadwood to fulfill her desire for adventure. Despite his affluence and status, he displays a down-to-earth demeanor and genuine concern for the well-being of his fellow travelers, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the group.
• Sioux Warriors: The Sioux warriors symbolize the formidable challenges encountered during the journey, their presence evoking a sense of danger and uncertainty. As antagonists to the protagonists, they represent the looming threat of conflict and violence in the untamed frontier, heightening the stakes and driving the narrative towards its climax.

Major Themes in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

• Theme 1: The Dangers of Underestimating Others
  Alfred, the diminutive scout, is often underestimated by others due to his small stature and bashful nature. However, he proves himself to be a skilled and brave scout, able to read the prairie like a book and fight when necessary. This theme is exemplified when Alfred surprises Allen and Miss Caldwell with his sudden assertiveness and expertise in handling the situation with the Sioux warriors.
• Theme 2: The Importance of Experience and Knowledge
  The story highlights the importance of experience and knowledge in navigating challenging situations. Alfred’s expertise as a scout and his understanding of the prairie and its dangers prove invaluable in keeping Miss Caldwell safe. In contrast, Allen’s inexperience and overconfidence nearly lead to disaster. This theme is illustrated when Alfred recognizes the signs of Sioux warriors and takes decisive action, while Allen is oblivious to the danger.
• Theme 3: The Power Dynamics of Gender Roles
  The story touches on the power dynamics of gender roles, particularly in the relationship between Miss Caldwell and Alfred. Miss Caldwell, as a woman, is expected to be helpless and in need of protection, while Alfred, as a man, is expected to be strong and assertive. However, Alfred’s bashful nature and Miss Caldwell’s independence challenge these expectations. This theme is evident when Miss Caldwell defies convention by riding off alone and Alfred surprises her with his assertiveness in handling the situation with the Sioux warriors.
• Theme 4: The Clash of Cultures
  The story explores the clash of cultures between the white settlers and the Native American Sioux warriors. The tension between the two groups is palpable, and Alfred’s knowledge of the prairie and its dangers serves as a bridge between the two cultures. This theme is exemplified in the standoff between Alfred, Miss Caldwell, and the Sioux warriors, highlighting the misunderstandings and mistrust that can arise from cultural differences.

Writing Style in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

• Descriptive Language:
  • Example: “Alfred could read the prairie like a book.”
  • Explanation: White employs vivid and evocative descriptions to paint a picture of the Western landscape and its inhabitants, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the setting and atmosphere of the story.
• Dialogue:
  • Example: “Miss Caldwell was determined to go to Deadwood.”
  • Explanation: The dialogue in the story is natural and colloquial, reflecting the speech patterns and personalities of the characters. It provides insight into their thoughts, motivations, and interactions, driving the plot forward and enriching character development.
• Narrative Perspective:
  • Example: “Alfred arose deliberately for a better look.”
  • Explanation: The narrative is primarily third-person limited, following the perspectives and experiences of the characters, particularly Alfred and Miss Caldwell. This allows for a deeper exploration of their thoughts and emotions while maintaining an objective viewpoint on the events unfolding.
• Suspenseful Pacing:
  • Example: “Alfred straightened suddenly in his saddle and uttered a fervent curse.”
  • Explanation: White builds tension through strategic pacing, gradually escalating the conflict and suspense as the story progresses. Moments of anticipation and uncertainty propel the plot forward, keeping readers engaged and eager to discover the outcome.
• Symbolism and Imagery:
  • Example: “The Sioux warriors symbolize the formidable challenges encountered during the journey.”
  • Explanation: White employs symbolism and vivid imagery to convey deeper themes and messages within the narrative. Elements such as the prairie landscape, the Sioux warriors, and the journey itself serve as powerful symbols that enrich the story with layers of meaning and significance.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

• Feminist Theory
• Interpretation: The story reinforces traditional gender roles, with Miss Caldwell needing male protection and Alfred embodying masculine bravery.
• Example: Miss Caldwell’s decision to ride off alone is portrayed as reckless, and she requires Alfred’s rescue.
• Critique: This interpretation overlooks Miss Caldwell’s agency and independence, as well as Alfred’s bashful nature, which challenges traditional gender roles.
• Postcolonial Theory
• Interpretation: The story perpetuates the dominant white settler narrative, marginalizing Native American experiences and perspectives.
• Example: The Sioux warriors are portrayed as threats, reinforcing stereotypes and justifying white violence against them.
• Critique: This interpretation highlights the story’s problematic representation of Native Americans, but overlooks Alfred’s attempts to communicate and find peace.
• Psychoanalytic Theory
• Interpretation: Alfred’s bashfulness and sudden assertiveness reveal repressed desires and a need for control.
• Example: Alfred’s blushing and stammering around Miss Caldwell suggest unrequited love, while his decisive actions against the Sioux warriors express a latent masculinity.
• Critique: This interpretation reduces Alfred’s character to psychosexual dynamics, neglecting his skills and experiences as a scout.
• Marxist Theory
• Interpretation: The story reflects class dynamics, with the wealthy Caldwell family and their hired scouts exploiting the prairie and its native inhabitants.
• Example: The Caldwell family’s luxury and privilege contrast with the harsh realities of the prairie and the Sioux warriors’ struggles.
• Critique: This interpretation oversimplifies the story’s themes, neglecting the complexities of frontier life and the characters’ individual motivations.
• Ecocritical Theory
• Interpretation: The story highlights the tension between human exploitation and the natural environment, as well as the interconnectedness of human and nonhuman experiences.
• Example: The prairie landscape and its creatures (like the prairie dogs) serve as a backdrop for human conflict, while Alfred’s knowledge of the land and its rhythms enables his survival.
• Critique: This interpretation foregrounds the story’s environmental themes, but might overlook the cultural and social dynamics at play.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
Character Development	How does Alfred’s character evolve throughout the story?	Through his experiences on the journey to Deadwood, Alfred transitions from a timid and bashful individual to a courageous and resourceful protagonist, showcasing his growth and development as he confronts challenges and adversaries.
Themes of Survival and Resilience	What themes of survival and resilience are evident in the story?	“The Girl Who Got Rattled” explores themes of survival and resilience through the characters’ encounters with adversity on the Western frontier, illustrating their ability to adapt, persevere, and overcome obstacles in the face of danger and uncertainty.
Conflict and Consequences	How do conflicts within the story drive the plot and shape the characters’ decisions?	The conflicts depicted in “The Girl Who Got Rattled” serve as catalysts for character development and narrative tension, leading to pivotal moments that test the protagonists’ resolve and highlight the consequences of their actions in the unforgiving landscape of the American West.
Gender Roles and Expectations	How are gender roles and expectations portrayed in the interactions between characters?	Stewart Edward White explores gender roles and expectations in “The Girl Who Got Rattled,” challenging traditional stereotypes through the actions and decisions of characters like Miss Caldwell, who defies societal norms to pursue her own desires and assert her agency in a male-dominated frontier environment.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

1. How does Alfred’s timid demeanor influence his actions? Alfred’s bashful nature often leads him to avoid confrontation and assertiveness, as seen when he refrains from directly addressing Allen’s disrespectful behavior towards him. For instance, when Allen interrupts Alfred’s story and mocks him in front of Miss Caldwell, Alfred blushes and falls silent, demonstrating his reluctance to engage in conflict.
2. What role does Miss Caldwell play in challenging societal norms? Miss Caldwell defies traditional gender roles and expectations by embracing the hardships of frontier life and actively participating in the journey to Deadwood. Despite societal pressures for women to adhere to domestic roles, she seeks adventure and independence, as evidenced by her decision to join the wagon train and her willingness to race ahead with Allen, disregarding concerns about safety and propriety.
3. How do conflicts with Native Americans impact the characters’ perceptions of the frontier? The encounters with hostile Sioux warriors highlight the harsh realities of life on the Western frontier and instill fear and uncertainty among the travelers. Alfred’s response to the looming threat of attack underscores the constant vigilance required for survival in the wilderness, as he prepares to defend himself and Miss Caldwell against potential violence.
4. What themes of resilience emerge amidst the challenges faced by the characters? The resilience of the characters is exemplified by their ability to adapt and endure in the face of adversity. Despite the dangers posed by hostile Native Americans and the harsh conditions of the journey, the travelers persevere, demonstrating their determination to reach their destination. Additionally, Alfred’s resourcefulness and courage in confronting the Sioux warriors reflect the resilience needed to overcome obstacles on the unforgiving frontier.

Literary Works Similar to “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

1. The Virginian by Owen Wister (1902) – A classic Western novel set in Wyoming, exploring themes of love, honor, and cultural clashes between settlers and Native Americans.
2. The Big Sky by A.B. Guthrie Jr. (1947) – A historical novel set in the American West, tracing the lives of fur trappers, explorers, and Native Americans amidst the vast, untamed landscape.
3. True Grit by Charles Portis (1968) – A Western novel about a young girl’s quest for justice, featuring a strong-willed female protagonist and a rugged, unforgiving frontier landscape.
4. Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry (1985) – A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about two former Texas Rangers on a perilous cattle drive, exploring themes of friendship, love, and the American West.
5. The Searchers by Alan Le May (1954) – A classic Western novel about a Texan’s obsessive search for his kidnapped niece, delving into themes of family, violence, and racial tension on the frontier.

These works share similarities with “The Girl Who Got Rattled” in their:

• Western settings and frontier themes
• Exploration of cultural clashes and racial tensions
• Strong-willed protagonists and rugged landscapes
• Themes of love, honor, and survival
• Historical and adventurous elements

Suggested Readings about/on “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

• Books:
• White, Stewart Edward. Blazed trail stories and stories of the wild life. Vol. 28. Ardent Media, 1969.
• Pence, Raymond Woodbury, ed. Short Stories by Present-day Authors. Macmillan Company, 1922.
• Articles:
• Schniedermann, Wibke. “Revision as Nostalgic Practice: The Imagined Adaptation of The Ballad of Buster Scruggs.” Adaptation 15.1 (2022): 68-83.
• Website Links:
• https://americanliterature.com/author/stewart-edward-white/short-story/the-girl-who-got-rattled
• http://www.online-literature.com/stewart-white/

Representative Quotations from “The Girl Who Got Rattled” by Stewart Edward White

Quotation	Context	Theorization
“Alfred was a little man, and he was bashful.”	Introduction to Alfred’s character	This quote highlights Alfred’s physical and personality traits, which are central to his character development and interactions with others.
“He could read the prairie like a book.”	Description of Alfred’s skills	This quote emphasizes Alfred’s expertise and connection to the natural environment, which serves as a source of power and authority.
“Allen annoyed Alfred, and Miss Caldwell thoughtlessly approved of Allen.”	Dynamics between Alfred, Allen, and Miss Caldwell	This quote illustrates the tensions and power dynamics between the three characters, with Alfred’s bashfulness and courtesy leading to his silence and inaction.
“The young Easterner spurred up on the right of the girl’s mount. ‘He’s the queerest little fellow I ever saw!’ he observed, with a laugh.”	Allen’s teasing of Alfred	This quote showcases the condescending attitude of Allen towards Alfred, highlighting the contrast between their personalities and approaches to life.
“Alfred surprised Miss Caldwell. His diffident manner suddenly left him. He jumped like lightning from his horse… and ran around to face Miss Caldwell.”	Alfred’s transformation in the face of danger	This quote marks a turning point in Alfred’s character development, as he sheds his bashfulness and takes decisive action to protect Miss Caldwell, revealing a more assertive and capable side.