Character Sketch of Maggie in Angel in Disguise
Introduction
The little girl Maggie is the protagonist of the story. She has been described as the youngest of her family. She has been shown as a crippled girl who becomes helpless and is left alone after her mother’s death as none of the villagers is ready to adopt her knowing her a burden. She symbolises innocence and dependency because she literally cannot survive without the love and care of someone. At first glance, she is considered a burden, but she turns out to be a blessing in Mr. Joe Thompson’s home because she gives the couple the purpose of life.
Her Meeting with An Incident
Two years ago, she has met with an unfortunate accident when she falls and hurts her spine in such a manner that she is left crippled for life. She has become bedridden. She cannot move from the bed without having the support of anyone. When her mother was alive, she was supported by her, but after the death, she is left on her miserable state. There is none to look after her.
Her Being considered As A Burden
After her (Maggie’s) mother’s death, her elder siblings, John and Kate are adopted by the farmer Jones and Mrs. Ellis respectively, but none comes forward to adopt her. No villager thinks Maggie to be of any use. She is considered a burden and it is decided by the villagers that she should be sent to the poorhouse where she would be cleaned regularly and where she would get food and medicine.
Her Captivating Innocent Face
Maggie seems to be having an innocent face which fascinates everybody’s attention.
‘The sad eyes and patient face of the little one touched many hearts and even knocked at them for entrance.’
It is her tender-looking face that not only touches many hearts but also disturbs them with the thoughts of her well-being. That is why many women in the neighbourhood bring the discarded garments and dress Maggie in clean clothes. When she sees none coming forward to adopt and support her, she says nothing. She remains silent and keeps on looking at the people. Her innocent eyes speak of her pain and sorrow. Her attractive innocent face makes Joe Thompson take her to his home where Joe’s wife, Jane, develops a soft corner for the girl soon.
Her Feeling Helpless and Weak
At the sudden death of her mother, Maggie is left supportless and alone as none shows interest in adopting her. When all have gone, Maggie with painful effort raises herself to an upright position and sits on the bed, straining her eyes upon the door out of which all have just departed. A vague terror comes into her thin white face. It is out of fear that she requests Mr. Joe Thompson:
‘O, Mr. Thompson !’ She cried out, catching her suspended breath, ‘don’t leave me here all alone.’
This clearly shows how weak and helpless Maggie is. When Mr. Thompson takes her to his house, Mrs. Thompson shouts at him for taking the invalid child at their house. On seeing the flaming face of Mrs. Thompson, Maggie starts and shrinks against Mr. Joe.
Her Behaving in A Most Gentle Manner
Maggie seems to be an amicable child. She behaves in a most gentle manner. She proves to be quite well-behaved at Mr. Joe Thomspson’s house. During her conversation with Mr. Thompson, she gives brief but polite replies. For example: ‘yes sir’, ‘He used to come, ‘No, sir, ‘The soft bed feels good’, ‘O, yes, sir-so good !’ Her suffering, sorrow, and pain do not destroy her childish sweetness.
A Blessing to the Desolated Life of the Couple
When Maggie reaches the Thompson Household, she is able to win hearts by her lovely presence, politeness, and sweetness. She brings joy and happiness to the desolated life of the couple. She brings a great change in the life of Jane who has become ill-tempered, irritable, and desolate, with nobody to take care of.
Maggie’s presence arouses motherly feelings in her and brings back happiness and joy in her life. She proves to be a blessing for the couple. Jane and Joe Thompson feel lucky to have her as she seems to be an angel to them.
Finally, it can be observed that Maggie who is initially considered to be a burden for everyone, becomes a boon and blessing for Mr. and Mrs. Thompson. She fills their hearts and home with love.
Treasure Trove Poems and Short Stories Workbook Answers