Education
Education in this text symbolizes opportunity. As Caleb becomes the first Native American to graduate from Harvard, we see that there is a significant lack of opportunity in education for Native American people. In a similar sense, Bethia also faces obstacles to her education, due to her gender. Instead of receiving an education, she is expected to undertake domestic tasks. Both characters can understand each other due to their similar experiences of prejudice.
Caleb's name
When Bethia first meets Caleb, he is called Cheeshahteaumuck. However, she later names him Caleb, which is a biblical allusion to the biblical figure of Caleb whom Moses sent to the Promised Land. This name also symbolizes Caleb’s entry into the Puritan community, as he now has a Christian name.
Bethia's name, "Storm Eyes"
Caleb calls Bethia "Storm Eyes." By using this moniker, he comments on the passionate, energetic and volatile personality that Bethia possesses. It is an endearing nickname that is ultimately a product of their intimate friendship and mutual understanding.
The Bible
For the Puritan characters in the text, the Bible symbolizes truth, and they live their life according to its teachings. Following this, Bethia's father believes his daughter should follow traditional female roles, such as homemaking. Bethia struggles with what she feels is the hypocrisy of this expectation and feels restricted by her Puritan background.
