Essay Questions

What is the symbolic meaning of the Bible handed over to Sarah while in the church cell?

The Bible given to Sarah is figurative because it represents her acceptance of eucharistic -engrossed life. She is still a young woman aged 17 but she finds herself in despair after the death of her sister. She does not want to live in the secular society anymore and she requests to lead a lonely and prayerful life in the church. She is accorded a small room in the church to practice her anchorite life. The Bible helps her to pray and remain focused as an anchoress.

Is solitude emerging as the main theme in The Anchoress by Robyn Cadwallader?

Robyn Cadwallader portrays Sarah as a lonely young woman who is trying to find peace of mind at the church. After losing her sister, Sarah thinks that nobody can replace her in her life and she decides to find peace of mind at the church where she becomes a dedicated anchorite. She becomes a spiritual woman who majorly prays and does holy things away from secular society. She is not ready to entertain worldly pleasures. For instance, she locks herself up in the cell when Sir Thomas tries to seduce her.

What is the main paradox in The Anchoress by Robyn Cadwallader?

Under typical circumstances, the reader comprehends that religious people are holy and they are dedicated to doing what is sacred. The religious leaders are accorded high respect in society because they are considered spiritual fathers to the rest of the community. Paradoxically, the reader realizes that Isabella is physically battered by the bishop which results in her disappearance from the community. Father Renaulf becomes aware of this and he is doing everything possible within his power to ensure that such an occurrence does not happen Sarah.