Chinese Cinderella Lesson Plan

What about Big Sister’s fate horrifies Adeline?

Even though Big Sister seems pleased to be getting married, Adeline it horrified that she is marrying someone so much older, and that this means the end of her education. Adeline does not wish to suffer the same fate: she loves school and hates the idea of being cut off from the one place where she can achieve, be recognized for her intellect, and have a sense of worth. Big Sister’s marriage also makes Adeline realize that something similar yet even worse might happen to her: she does not enjoy Niang’s favor, whereas Big Sister does. We also see Niang’s continued cruelty as she skims the best of Big Sister’s wedding presents,...