There's nothing like facing danger, impossible odds, and life-threatening opposition to bring out the bravery you didn't know you had. Isabel may be small, young, and powerless in the eyes of her oppressors, but as Katy Perry might put it, she's got the eye of the tiger and you're gonna hear her roar.
Watching Isabel grow from a little girl unable to change her circumstances to a force to be reckoned with in Chains is one of the greatest character development goodies of her story. In spite of her fears of the consequences, Isabel's desire to do the right thing for herself and others gives her the guts to face them. You go, girl.
Questions About Courage
- How does Isabel respond to dangerous situations as she prepares to enter them?
- What experiences cause Isabel to develop greater courage? Where does her inner strength come from?
- What is the significance of the note Isabel burns in the fire?
- Imagine Isabel has an iPod as she's rowing across the river to New Jersey. What's on her escape playlist to get her fired up?
Chew on This
Isabel uses her compassion for others to overcome her fears of being punished for her activities.
While Madam Lockton intends for her fear and intimidation to make Isabel submit, she actually fuels Isabel's growing defiance and courage.