A Reconciliation with Reality and Self-preservation

—George MacDonald’s Interpretation of Early Death in At the Back of the North Wind

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The untimely loss of a loved one is an excruciating ordeal. Renowned Victorian Scottish writer George MacDonald was obliged to face the recurring early deaths of family members all his lifetime. Drawing from the background of Victorian literature and his working experience in church, he forges a reconciliation with reality and realizes his self-preservation through religion. His masterpiece, At the Back of the North Wind, is the reflection of his life sufferings, inner world, and way of reconciliation with reality. By examining the characterization of Diamond and North Wind, two leading characters in the book, and the employment of his unique literary technique, this article aims to reveal his motivation in portraying the protagonist of the book—Diamond, a poor little boy living in London, and conclude MacDonald’s means of self-preservation, i.e., interpretation of early death: those who pass away at a young age are angels from heaven. After fulfilling their earthly missions, they return to a better realm they inherently belong to—Heaven. Hence, earthly life is only a fragment of human beings’ existence. MacDonald’s coming to terms with bereavement while facing death holds practical significance today, especially for the people suffering from the loss of loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.