Peter Pan: "Do You Believe in Fairies?" - Study Guide
This guide will help you understand the key elements of Chapter 1, "Do You Believe in Fairies?" from J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan.
Themes / Big Ideas
This chapter introduces several core themes that run throughout the novel:
- Belief & Imagination: The chapter hinges on whether or not people believe in fairies. Belief is presented as a source of power and life, directly impacting Tink's survival. This theme explores the importance of childhood wonder and its connection to possibility.
- The Loss of Innocence: The capture of the Lost Boys and Wendy represents a threat to their innocence. Hook's actions are predatory, highlighting the dangers of growing up and facing harsh realities.
- The Power Dynamic between Peter & Hook: The chapter establishes the intense rivalry between Peter and Hook. Hook's cunning, cruelty, and obsession with defeating Peter are on full display. The chapter also shows Hook's surprising complexity - he isn’t simply evil, but has a twisted sense of honor and even appreciation for beauty.
- Sacrifice & Loyalty: Tinker Bell’s willingness to drink the poisoned medicine to save Peter demonstrates a powerful act of loyalty and sacrifice.
- The Nature of Childhood: The chapter explores the unique characteristics of childhood – impulsiveness, recklessness (Slightly whittling his tree), and a strong sense of playfulness even in the face of danger.
- The Importance of Storytelling: The narrator frequently interjects with commentary and asides, reminding us that this is a story. This highlights the power of narrative to shape our understanding of events and characters.
Vocabulary List
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Horror | Noun | A feeling of intense fear or dread. |
| Ruthless | Adjective | Having or showing no pity or compassion for others. |
| Distingué | Adjective | Elegant and refined; sophisticated. |
| Tale-tale | Adjective | Revealing secret information; incriminating. |
| Haughty | Adjective | Arrogantly superior and disdainful. |
| Trussing | Verb | Binding or tying up tightly. |
| Malicious | Adjective | Intending or intended to do harm. |
| Exultation | Noun | Great rejoicing; triumphant joy. |
| Subterranean | Adjective | Existing or occurring below the surface of the earth. |
| Morass | Noun | An area of swamp or marsh. |
| Tenement | Noun | A room or set of rooms forming a dwelling. |
| Idyllic | Adjective | Extremely pleasant, peaceful, and picturesque. |
| Sombre | Adjective | Dark or gloomy; serious. |
| Stealthy | Adjective | Conducting oneself in a careful and secretive manner. |
| Perilous | Adjective | Full of danger or risk. |
| Begirt | Verb | Encircle or surround. |
| Redskin | Noun | (often offensive) A Native American. Used here to describe a style of movement. |
| Adept | Adjective | Very skilled or proficient at something. |
| Obliterated | Verb | Destroy completely; wipe out. |
| Dire | Adjective | Extremely serious or urgent. |
| Unwonted | Adjective | Unusual; not customary. |
Quotes to Look For & Analyze
- "The more quickly this horror is disposed of the better." – This sets a frantic tone and emphasizes the danger the children are in. Consider how this language impacts your perception of Hook.
- “A different treatment was accorded to Wendy, who came last.” – This highlights Hook’s fascination with Wendy and foreshadows her importance in the story. What does this different treatment suggest about Hook’s character?
- “Perhaps it is tell-tale to divulge that for a moment Hook entranced her…” – This quote reveals Wendy’s vulnerability and the power of Hook's charisma. Why does the narrator feel the need to apologize for this revelation?
- “Slightly, white to the gills, knew that Hook had surprised his secret…” – This is a key moment of suspense. What does this reveal about Slightly’s character and the consequences of his actions?
- “Hook saw it, and it did Peter a bad service.” – This demonstrates Hook’s cruelty. Even a small act of pity is quickly extinguished by his hatred for Peter.
- “Did no feeling of compassion disturb his sombre breast?” – This rhetorical question invites the reader to consider Hook’s complexity. Is he purely evil, or is there more to his character?
- “The open mouth, the drooping arm, the arched knee: they were such a personification of cockiness as…will never again, one may hope, be presented to eyes so sensitive to their offensiveness.” – This quote reveals Hook’s obsession with Peter and his inability to tolerate Peter's carefree nature.
- “It was poisoned.” “Poisoned? Who could have poisoned it?” – This is a pivotal moment of discovery. How does this revelation change your understanding of the situation?
- “You silly ass,” she whispered in his ear. – This quote reveals Tink’s affection for Peter, despite her often prickly demeanor.
- “Do you believe?” he cried. – This is the central question of the chapter. Why is belief so important?
- “Hook or me this time.” – This oath demonstrates Peter’s determination and the high stakes of their conflict.
This study guide should help you delve deeper into the themes, characters, and language of this important chapter. Remember to consider how these elements contribute to the overall meaning of Peter Pan.