The Door in the Wall Essay Questions

What factors work in Robin's favor in his quest to save Sir Peter's castle? How did he cultivate these factors over the course of his journey?

Robin's bravery, strength, and youth all work in his favor. Most importantly, it is his .willingness to put himself at risk for the greater good that turns him into the hero of the castle. He has also developed physical perseverance so that his disabled legs are not a hindrance. Throughout his stay at the monastery, Robin participates in daily swimming practice, which makes him a strong swimmer with good shoulder strength. This proves invaluable in enabling him to cross the river as quickly as possible, without depleting his energy too much. Finally, his young age is beneficial, as it allows him to pass by the Welsh army without suspicion.

What is the significance of names in the story?

Many of the characters have names that describe either their origin or what they do for a living. Robin's father is called Sir John de Bureford because he is a knight and hails from the town of Bureford. Then there is John-the-Fletcher, who is a person who makes arrows for a living, or John-go-in-the-Wynd, who is a messenger who seems to travel quick as the wind. Such names speak of a society where people are identified with the services they provide. This is why Robin resists being called "Crookshank": he wishes to be known as a page rather than as someone with a disability. Ultimately, though, Robin adopts this nickname for good when he uses it to get past the Welsh soldier on his quest to save the castle.

What virtue does Robin learn at the monastery? How does this virtue help him save the castle from the invaders?

Robin learns many virtues while living at the monastery. One of the most important ones is determination. The monks teach him to be patient and perseverant while he is whittling so that he can be proud of his work in the end and not blame his mistakes on others. They also teach him to be determined when it comes to his recovery. This determination enables Robin to carry out his plan and get through challenges (such as wading through the icy river) without panicking or doubting his abilities.

How does the narrative's style bring the medieval English setting to life?

Marguerite de Angeli uses much historical detail in order to situate her characters in Middle-Ages England. She includes Old English language and customs in order to bring the reader into this world, staying faithful to the dialect, place names, and knowledge of the moment, such as the fact that Robin's teacher does not know the shape of the earth. The author also uses the backdrop of the Black Death to demonstrate the uncertainty of life at this time, including scenes where the monastery is crowded with the sick in order to give the reader a sense of the hardships that people faced.

How does the narrative foreshadow the impending Welsh attack on Sir Peter de Lindsay's castle?

There are various clues that make the reader privy to the attack on the castle. First of all, on their journey, John-go-in-the-Wynd says to Robin that there is often trouble with the Welsh on the border where Sir Peter's home is located. Also, when Robin first arrives in Lindsay and takes in the expansive view, he remarks that he cannot fathom that any enemy could ever succeed in attacking. Adam, the bowman, explains that if there is a fog covering the land, an entire army can creep onto their territory; later on, when misty weather strikes, this is exactly what happens.