The Red Shoes

The Red Shoes Glossary

doubtful

uncertain

simplicity

being easy to understand

agony

extreme physical or mental suffering

disheartening

causing one to lose hope or confidence

devour

to consume quickly or hungrily

comparatively

to a moderate degree

unspoiled

not overly privileged

prima ballerina

the chief female dancer in a ballet company

pointe shoes

ballet shoes with a stiff toe to enable dancers to perform "en pointe," or with the foot fully extended, balancing on the toe.