Lecture Notes: The Door and the Wall by Marguerite d'Angeli

Introduction

• The Door and the Wall
  • Written by Marguerite d'Angeli
  • Newbery Award winner
  • Popular in homeschool communities, part of CC Challenge
• Key Quote: "I know thy works. Behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man shall shut it."
• Inspiration: Harm Robinson, friend of the author
• Acknowledgments: Peggy Lesser, editor at Doubleday

Story Overview

• Main Character: Robin
  • Son of a noble family
  • Expected to become a knight
  • Father away at Scottish Wars
  • Mother called to be a lady-in-waiting
  • Stricken with illness, unable to move legs

Setting and Characters

• London Setting
  • Bells of London
  • Streets filled with market activity
  • Sights and sounds of medieval London
• Robin's Household
  • Ellen, the nurse
  • Other servants and retainers gone due to plague

Key Events

• Illness and Isolation

  • Robin becomes ill after his mother departs
  • Left alone as the plague spreads
  • Loneliness exacerbated by inability to join peers

• Encounter with Brother Luke

  • Friar brings food and care
  • Ellen and other servants affected by plague
  • Robin taken to St. Mark's by Brother Luke for care

Themes

• Bravery and Expectations

  • Societal expectations for noble children
  • Robin’s struggle with his emotions and physical limitations

• Hope and Perseverance

  • Brother Luke's reassurance
  • The metaphor of finding a door in the wall

Symbolism

• Doors and Walls
  • Represents challenges and opportunities
  • Encouragement to persevere through difficulties

Robin's Recovery and Activities

• Integration into Monastic Life

  • Cared for by monks
  • Begins to engage with community

• Crafting and Learning

  • Whittling boats and crosses
  • Learning patience and skill
  • Expresses interest in learning to read and write

Social and Historical Context

• Plague Impact

  • London affected by the plague
  • Social structures and travel affected

• Naming Conventions

  • Explained through interactions with Brother Luke
  • Reflects societal norms and family lineage

Emotional Journey

• Internal Conflict

  • Robin’s struggle with his identity and physical limitations
  • Resilience in the face of loneliness and disability

• Community Support

  • Support from Brother Luke and the monastery
  • Encouragement and friendship found in unexpected places

Conclusion

• Reflection on Gratitude and Acceptance
  • Robin learns to appreciate his circumstances
  • Develops understanding of personal growth and community

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This lecture provided insights into the early chapters of "The Door and the Wall," highlighting Robin’s journey from isolation to integration and the themes of perseverance and hope. For the next session, we will continue exploring Robin's story. Remember to like and subscribe if you enjoyed the lecture.