Critical Summary

"Jody’s Fawn"by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings is a poignant story that explores the deep moral and emotional dilemmas of a young boy, Jody Baxter. The narrative is set in a rustic, natural environment where survival often involves tough decisions. The central conflict arises when Jody's father, Penny, is saved from a rattlesnake bite by sacrificing a doe to use its liver as an antidote. This act leaves the doe’s fawn orphaned, which deeply affects Jody. His empathy and sense of responsibility compel him to seek his father’s permission to find and care for the fawn.

The story critically examines the relationship between humans and nature, highlighting themes of responsibility, gratitude, and moral growth. Jody’s determination to care for the fawn, despite practical challenges, reflects his maturity and the human capacity for compassion. The author effectively contrasts Jody’s innocence and sensitivity with the harsh realities of rural life, creating a narrative that resonates with readers on both emotional and ethical levels.

The interactions between the characters further enrich the story. Penny, Jody’s father, serves as a moral compass, acknowledging the debt owed to the fawn while trusting Jody’s judgment. Jody’s mother represents the voice of practicality, raising concerns about resources and the feasibility of raising a wild animal. These differing perspectives underscore the complexities of ethical decisions.

The climax of the story—Jody’s discovery of the fawn—captures the emotional essence of the tale. The fawn’s trust in Jody symbolizes the bond between humans and animals, while Jody’s joy in nurturing it signifies his growth as a compassionate and responsible individual.

Through its vivid imagery and emotional depth, the story critiques the human tendency to take from nature without giving back, urging readers to consider their responsibilities toward the environment and other living beings. It is a moving narrative that blends moral lessons with the beauty of human-animal relationships, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

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Questions and Answers

1. Why did Penny Baxter allow Jody to go find the fawn and raise it?

2. What did Doc Wilson mean when he said, “Nothing in the world ever comes quite free”?

3. How did Jody look after the fawn, after he accepted the responsibility for doing this?

4. How does Jody’s mother react when she hears that he is going to bring the fawn home? Why does she react in this way?

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1. Why did Penny Baxter allow Jody to go find the fawn and raise it?

Penny Baxter allowed Jody to find and raise the fawn because he felt it would be ungrateful to let the orphaned fawn starve, especially since its mother had been killed to save his own life. Penny admired Jody's sense of responsibility and compassion for the animal. He also recognized Jody's maturity in wanting to take care of the fawn.

2. What did Doc Wilson mean when he said, “Nothing in the world ever comes quite free”?

Doc Wilson meant that every action has consequences and costs. In this case, the doe's life was taken to save Penny’s life, so it was only fair and just to care for the fawn as a way of acknowledging this moral debt.

3. How did Jody look after the fawn, after he accepted the responsibility for doing this?

Jody took great care of the fawn by carrying it home through difficult terrain and shielding it from harm. Once home, he fed it patiently by dipping his fingers in milk and letting the fawn suckle. He ensured the fawn was comfortable and reassured it with his touch and gentle demeanor.

4. How does Jody’s mother react when she hears that he is going to bring the fawn home? Why does she react in this way?

Jody's mother reacts with initial shock and hesitation upon hearing about bringing the fawn home. She exclaims in disbelief but eventually agrees, albeit reluctantly, when reminded of the doe's sacrifice and Penny's support for the idea. Her reaction likely stems from practical concerns, such as the family’s limited resources, and the unusual nature of raising a wild animal in their home.

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