Isola: A Novel

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, child death, physical abuse, and emotional abuse.

In the world of Isola, Goodman portrays Europe’s patriarchal values as deeply rooted in and justified through Christian spiritual doctrine, laying the groundwork for Marguerite to experience a crisis of faith as she begins to dismantle patriarchal control in her life. Throughout her life, Marguerite is surrounded by people who have complete trust in God’s will, but when she confronts contradictions, unpunished evils, and senseless violence and harm in the world around her, Marguerite doubts not only God’s will but God’s presence in her life. Marguerite’s closest companions—Damienne, Claire, and Madame D’Artois—all accept divine mysteries without question, situating God as the ultimate patriarch. belief that God uses hardship to teach lessons of virtue. For example, on the island, Damienne believes God is present in the snowstorm not because He wants to punish them, but because He wants to teach them to be humble in the face of nature. She believes that by acting virtuously at all times—even when it may not be practical—God will see her and reward her.

Goodman positions Damienne, who believes it isn’t her place to question God’s intentions, as a

Unlock all 69 pages of this Study Guide

Plus, gain access to 9,150+ more expert-written Study Guides.

Including features:

+ Mobile App

+ Printable PDF

+ Literary AI Tools

Unlock Full Library