Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Ronia and the Leap over Hell's Gap

One of the turning points in this novel occurs on page 93 where it states, "almost in a fever, she took a run and flew across Hell's Gap." This leap that Ronia makes over Hell's Gap to save her brother Birk foreshadows all the change that will take place between these rival families. Additionally, it reveals that Ronia is a reformer. To be a reformer one has to stand up and take risks in order to see the changes. I believe that Ronia takes on these characteristics; even though she is not aware that her actions would become the catalyst the transforms their entire future. It helps bridge the gap between the Matts and Borkas.
Ronia challenges Matt's world by jumping over Hell's Gap. She knows that her action would cause Matt agony. She wants Matt to feel the same anger that she feels which is evident as Lindgren writes, "she had done it, and in a rage that time too, but not as beside herself as she was now" (93). She knows her father's love for her would force Matt to bargain with Borka something that is inconceivable for him. In addition, this forces Matt to experience Borka's emotions. The quote also suggests that the when Ronia and Birk were jumping across Hell's Gap it was preparation for this catastrophic event.
The leap also foreshadows Ronia's emotions about Matt's robbing life. The leap shows that Ronia will not follow Matt's way of life, it reveals her independence. Ronia does not approve of Matt's actions and this is what makes her follow Birk to live in Bear's Cave. The fact that Ronia shows Matt that she is willing to live with his enemy makes him realize that despite all the love that they have for each other, Ronia is her own individual and she will do what she wants even if he does not agree. The leap also signifies the separation every child makes from their parent(s) as she/he searches for identity, own sense of self.
Ronia the Reformer, I think this title is applicable to Lindgren's character. Ronia's actions are the catalyst that makes Matt realize that he should join forces with Borka, Ronia and Birk can openly continue their friendship (without remorse), and Ronia and Birk will be the first generation who do not participate in the robber lifestyle. I have only one question, does anyone think Birk would have done put himself into Matt's hand for Ronia's sake?

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