Comparison and Contrast of Blanche and Sister Marie - Essay Example

The outcome of Blanche is not a surprise, based on the examples of fear she displayed when she was growing. Blanche would often ask questions like “Are you sure the stairs will not slip from under my feet?” or “Won’t the wall tip over?” (Le Fort 19). The building in question was the Chateau la Force which had defied 7 centuries, and it was clearly evident that it could last another 7 centuries. Neither was she unintelligent for asking such questions. She'd always listen attentively to the answers provided and reflect deeply on them.

However, she would continue to be afraid. In time as she grew up, she found intelligent ways of avoiding her fears. She'd, for example, give an excuse that she had forgotten something or that she had something urgent that needed done when forced into a situation that demanded her to confront her fear. It was clear that she was struggling and agonizing with her fears, but she endured despite being dubbed a 'rabbit-heart' by the servants. It is, however, ironic that despite the noble name that Blanche held, she was a timid and fearful child who bore idle mockery to her family name.

It was in this state of affairs that Blanche started her religious instruction. The thoroughness with which this instruction took place succeeded in helping her overcome her fears to a certain extent. It is clearly evident that the neglect of this part of her education largely contributed to her continued timidity and reservations that had affected a large part of her life. Unlike Sister Marie, Blanche was apt in rejecting uncomfortable questions. Soon, Blanche’s resistance weakened, and the uncertain fantasies of fear originating from her imagination were not as evident.

Like Sister Marie, she found consolation in faith