The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge is a beloved children’s novel that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. First published in 1946, the novel follows the story of a recently orphaned teenage girl who is sent to live with her cousin and guardian in the West Country. Set in 1842, the novel features a magical world filled with adventure, mystery, and wonder.
The Little White Horse is much more than just a children’s novel, however. Many scholars and literary critics have analyzed the novel and discovered that it is actually an allegory, or a story with a hidden meaning. By examining the characters, plot, and themes of the novel, readers can uncover a deeper message that Goudge was trying to convey. In this article, we will explore the allegorical elements of The Little White Horse and explain their significance.
Background of ‘The Little White Horse’
‘The Little White Horse’ is a low fantasy children’s novel written by Elizabeth Goudge. The book was first published in 1946 by the University of London Press with illustrations by C. Walter Hodges, and Anne Yvonne Gilbert in 1992. The novel is set in 1842 and features a recently orphaned teenage girl who is sent to the manor house of her cousin and guardian in the West Country.
Elizabeth Goudge was an English author who wrote several novels for adults and children. She was born in 1900 in Wells, Somerset, and grew up in a family of writers and artists. Her father was a clergyman and her mother was an artist. Goudge’s childhood experiences influenced her writing, and many of her novels are set in rural England.
‘The Little White Horse’ was one of Goudge’s most popular books and won the Carnegie Medal in 1946. The novel has been praised for its vivid descriptions of the English countryside and its engaging characters. The book has been translated into several languages and has been adapted for film and television.
Overall, ‘The Little White Horse’ is a charming and enchanting novel that has captivated generations of readers. Its timeless themes of love, friendship, and courage continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
Overview of Allegory in Literature
Allegory is a literary device that uses symbolic representation to convey a deeper meaning. It is a way to communicate complex ideas or concepts in a more accessible way. Allegories can be found in many forms of literature, including novels, plays, and poems.
One of the most famous examples of allegory is George Orwell’s Animal Farm, in which farm animals represent different political factions and ideologies. Another example is C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, in which the characters and events represent Christian themes and beliefs.
Allegories can be used to explore a wide range of topics, from politics and religion to social issues and personal struggles. They can be straightforward or more subtle, with the symbolism requiring some interpretation on the part of the reader.
Main Allegories in ‘The Little White Horse’
The Significance of the White Horse
The white horse in ‘The Little White Horse‘ represents purity, innocence, and hope. It is a symbol of the good and positive forces in the story. It also represents the goodness and purity of the main character, Maria Merryweather, who is determined to bring peace and harmony to the Moonacre Valley. The white horse is a recurring motif throughout the story, and its appearance often signifies a turning point in the plot.
The Sun and Moon Imagery
The sun and moon imagery in ‘The Little White Horse’ represents the balance between light and dark, good and evil, and masculine and feminine energies. The sun is often associated with male energy, while the moon is associated with female energy. The balance between the two is necessary for harmony and peace in the Moonacre Valley. The sun and moon also represent the passage of time, and the cyclical nature of life.
The Role of Nature and Landscape
Nature and landscape play a significant role in ‘The Little White Horse’. The lush greenery, rolling hills, and sparkling streams of the Moonacre Valley are a symbol of the abundance and beauty of nature. They also represent the interconnectedness of all living things. The landscape is often described in vivid detail, highlighting the beauty and wonder of the natural world. The role of nature in the story emphasizes the importance of respecting and protecting the environment.
Character Allegories and Their Meanings
Maria Merryweather’s Journey
Maria Merryweather is the protagonist of “The Little White Horse,” and her journey is a representation of the journey of life. She is initially lost and confused after the death of her father, but her journey to Moonacre Manor represents a new beginning. She faces challenges and obstacles along the way, but she learns to trust in herself and the people around her. Her journey is a reflection of the human experience of growth and self-discovery.
Miss Heliotrope’s Symbolism
Miss Heliotrope, Maria’s governess, represents the nurturing and guiding force in Maria’s life. She is a symbol of maternal love and wisdom, and her presence in the story represents the importance of having positive role models in life. Miss Heliotrope also represents the importance of education and learning, as she is a source of knowledge and guidance for Maria.
The Lion and Unicorn Motif
The motif of the lion and unicorn in “The Little White Horse” represents the balance between strength and gentleness. The lion represents strength and courage, while the unicorn represents gentleness and purity. Together, they represent the ideal balance of qualities that one should strive for in life. The motif also represents the balance between the material and spiritual worlds, as the lion is associated with the physical world and the unicorn is associated with the spiritual world.
Thematic Allegories Explored
Good vs. Evil
The Little White Horse explores the classic theme of good vs. evil through various characters and events. Maria, the protagonist, represents goodness and light, while Coeur de Noir represents evil and darkness. The novel also highlights the idea that good and evil are not always black and white, and that there are shades of gray in between. The characters’ actions and decisions throughout the story demonstrate the consequences of their choices and their impact on the world around them.
Reconciliation and Unity
The theme of reconciliation and unity is also present in The Little White Horse. The novel emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and understanding in order to achieve peace and harmony. Maria’s journey to reconcile with Coeur de Noir and bring him back into the light is a powerful example of this theme. The novel also highlights the importance of unity and working together towards a common goal, as seen in the efforts of the Moonacre community to restore the harmony of the valley.
Love and Sacrifice
Love and sacrifice are central themes in The Little White Horse. The novel demonstrates the power of love to overcome even the greatest of obstacles. Maria’s love for her family and friends, as well as her determination to bring peace to the valley, drives her actions throughout the story. The novel also emphasizes the idea that sacrifice is often necessary in order to achieve a greater good. Maria’s willingness to sacrifice her own happiness for the sake of the valley is a poignant example of this theme.
Elizabeth Goudge’s Use of Allegory
Elizabeth Goudge’s The Little White Horse is a children’s novel that uses allegory to convey its themes and messages. Goudge employs a variety of literary devices to create an allegorical world that is both enchanting and meaningful.
One of the most notable uses of allegory in the book is the portrayal of the two families, the Merryweathers and the de Noirs. The Merryweathers are associated with light, goodness, and love, while the de Noirs are linked to darkness, evil, and hatred. This contrast between the two families serves to highlight the importance of choosing the right path in life and the consequences of one’s actions.
Another example of allegory is the character of the Little White Horse itself. The horse represents purity, innocence, and goodness, and serves as a symbol of hope and redemption throughout the novel. The horse’s appearance and behavior also reflect the state of the world around it, making it an important indicator of the story’s progress.
Finally, Goudge uses the setting of Moonacre Valley to create an allegorical world that is both magical and meaningful. The valley is a place where good and evil are in constant conflict, and where the forces of nature are in harmony with the human spirit. This setting serves as a powerful metaphor for the struggles and triumphs of life, and underscores the importance of finding balance and harmony in one’s own life.
Interpreting Allegorical Messages
Interpreting allegorical messages can be a challenging task, but it is also one of the most rewarding experiences a reader can have. The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge is a perfect example of a book that is rich in allegorical messages.
One way to interpret allegorical messages is to look for symbols and metaphors. For example, in The Little White Horse, the moon is a symbol of hope and guidance, while the unicorn represents purity and goodness.
Another way to interpret allegorical messages is to pay attention to the characters’ actions and motivations. The Little White Horse is full of characters who represent different virtues and vices. For instance, Miss Heliotrope embodies kindness and compassion, while Sir Benjamin represents greed and selfishness.
It’s important to keep in mind that allegorical messages can be interpreted in different ways, depending on the reader’s perspective and experience. The key is to approach the text with an open mind and a willingness to explore its deeper meanings.
Influence of ‘The Little White Horse’ on Later Works
‘The Little White Horse’ has had a significant influence on later works of literature. The novel’s intricate plot, memorable characters, and magical world-building have inspired countless authors in the years since its publication.
One of the most notable works influenced by ‘The Little White Horse’ is J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ series. Rowling has cited ‘The Little White Horse’ as one of her favorite childhood books and has acknowledged its influence on her own writing. Like ‘The Little White Horse,’ the ‘Harry Potter’ series features a magical world hidden within the real world, a young protagonist on a quest, and a cast of memorable characters.
Another work that has been influenced by ‘The Little White Horse’ is C.S. Lewis’s ‘The Chronicles of Narnia.’ Both ‘The Little White Horse’ and ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ feature magical creatures, a battle between good and evil, and a young protagonist who must save a magical world.
‘The Little White Horse’ has also influenced contemporary works of children’s literature, such as ‘The Secret of Platform 13’ by Eva Ibbotson and ‘The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making’ by Catherynne M. Valente. These works share many similarities with ‘The Little White Horse,’ including magical worlds, quests, and memorable characters.
Reader Interpretations and Discussions
Readers have interpreted The Little White Horse in various ways, and many discussions have taken place over the years regarding the book’s allegorical meaning. Some readers see the story as a Christian allegory, with the Little White Horse representing Christ and the curse on the valley representing sin.
Others interpret the story as a commentary on the importance of balance and harmony in life, with the characters representing different aspects of human nature. Maria, for example, represents innocence and purity, while Sir Benjamin represents the importance of intellect and reason.
Some readers have also discussed the role of magic in the story, with some seeing it as a metaphor for the power of imagination and others interpreting it as a symbol of the divine.