People often dismiss shy, quiet characters in literature. Readers prefer to identify with Jo March, Elizabeth Bennett, or Anne Shirley — those delightful, bold, and charming characters who made a deep impression on us when we first encountered them. While there’s nothing wrong with emulating or admiring these excellent characters, the tendency to overlook their shy counterparts is worrisome. Characters who have less noticeably exciting traits are forgotten at best or, at worst, dismissed as annoying, holier-than-thou prudes, or cowards.
The modern world is quick to disdain quiet kindness, loveliness of character, and beauty of virtue as old-fashioned and unnecessary when clothed in the form of characters such as Beth March, Fanny Price, or Cinderella. What could be worth emulating about them?
Shyness gets you nowhere. Timidity doesn’t get you noticed. Adventure-hungry readers ignore that the quiet characters show us how to live and grow in virtue through mundane tasks and everyday trials. Consider how Beth, Fanny, and Ella exemplify the virtues of kindness, courage, and forgiveness in ways applicable to our own lives.
Read Full Article »