Ophelia Part 3 Questions: 44-45

In your opinion, why was Ophelia not asked to leave when the nuns discovered that she was pregnant?

Ophelia was not asked to leave because the nuns voted to keep her, recognizing her needs and virtue.

Why does Ophelia believe that Mother Ermentrude is angry with her? Explain.

Ophelia believes Mother Ermentrude is angry because she feels she has deceived her about her pregnancy.

How and why does Therese harm herself? Explain.

Therese harms herself by whipping to purge her sin, believing it will bring her closer to Christ.

Why does the priest refuse to give Ophelia Communion bread? What does he assume about her? How does this convey the theme of hypocrisy? Explain.

The priest refuses Ophelia Communion because he assumes her pregnancy disqualifies her due to hypocrisy in denying grace to others.

What argument does Ophelia use to make him give it to her?

Ophelia argues that, like Elizabeth in the Bible, she deserves Communion despite her condition.

What argument does Ophelia use to coerce the priest into seeing Therese?

She coerces the priest into seeing Therese by insisting he must bring Christ to her.

What alarming news do we learn at the end of this chapter? Explain why this is so upsetting?

Count Durufle is coming to the convent, threatening its reputation and stability, which is deeply upsetting for everyone.

What words of assurance does Isabel give Ophelia on her way to the bishop?

Isabel assures Ophelia that the bishop is a good man and tells her to be humble.

What words of caution does she share and about whom?

She warns Ophelia to be cautious of Count Durufle, who holds significant power.

Who are witnessing Ophelia’s questioning by the bishop? What does Mother Ermentrude say about Ophelia?

Witnesses to Ophelia's questioning include Mother Ermentrude and Count Durufle. Mother Ermentrude describes Ophelia as having not professed any vows.

What questions does the bishop ask Ophelia? How does she answer?

The bishop asks Ophelia for her name, about her arrival at the convent, and the identity of her child's father. Ophelia answers truthfully, asserting her innocence.

What threat does Count Durufle make? How would you describe this character?

Count Durufle threatens that Ophelia's circumstances could bring shame to the convent. He is portrayed as harsh and vengeful.

What is the bishop’s response to the threat and what is his final decision concerning Ophelia?

The bishop responds to Durufle's threat by firmly stating that the law of Christ requires them to give Ophelia shelter, deciding that she may stay until her child is born.