Ophelia Part 3: Chapter 37-39 Questions

How does Marguerite discover that Ophelia is from Elsinore?

Marguerite suspects Ophelia is from Elsinore when she sees that the coins she possesses bear the seal of Denmark's king.

Who is Therese? How did she end up working at the convent? What is unusual about her?

Therese is a servant at the convent, crippled since birth. Her father sent her to work for the nuns, knowing she would likely never marry. Unusually, she experiences visions of the Lord, which some at the convent envy

What do we learn about Isabel? What do she and Ophelia have in common? How are they different?

Isabel, a novice nun, empathizes with Ophelia and shares a similar motherless experience. They both struggle with life's hardships, but differ in their outlooks; Isabel embraces her fate joyfully, while Ophelia is consumed by despair.

How did Mother Ermentrude come to take the veil? How did she become the prioress?

She was given to the convent by her father due to his inability to secure a marriage for her. Her father's influence eventually helped her become prioress.

How does the story of Sister Marie and Sister Angelina exemplify the theme of feminism? Explain.

They exemplify feminism through the mother's defiance against an abusive husband to save her daughter, showcasing female agency and sacrifice.

Of whom does Sister Marguerite remind Ophelia? Why?

Sister Marguerite reminds Ophelia of Cristiana due to her proud demeanor, reflecting Ophelia's past experiences.

How does the rosebush at Sister Marie’s grave symbolize her early death?

The withered rosebush symbolizes Sister Marie's early death but also suggests hope for renewal, indicating that life can bloom again.

What conditions must Ophelia meet to be allowed to stay at the convent?

Ophelia must work, pray, and study with the convent community, guided by Sister Isabel.

How is the convent like a prince’s court? How is it different?

The convent is like a prince's court in its hierarchy with a prioress as queen, but is different because there are no men competing for affection, allowing equal worship of Christ.

Isabel explains that the convent is still under man’s power (patriarchal) even though it seems under woman’s power (matriarchal). What does she specifically tell us?

Isabel explains that although the convent appears matriarchal, it is ultimately under the patriarchal control of Bishop Garamond and Count Durufle.

What sins does Isabel confess to Ophelia? What comparison does Ophelia make?

Isabel confesses jealousy of Marguerite and impatience with Angelina. Ophelia compares these to far worse sins she knows from Elsinore, like deceit and revenge.

What task is given to Ophelia by the prioress? How well does she perform it? Explain.

Ophelia is assigned to tutor the convent school girls. She performs poorly, feeling overwhelmed and resorting to giving insignificant tasks, instead of meaningful support.