"Never forget," she said, "the world is a strange and dangerous place, and there are things in it that will try to break you. But you are strong. You are resilient. You are beautiful. And you are worth fighting for."
This seemingly simple piece of advice is profound in its meaning and resonates throughout the book. Here's a breakdown:
* "The world is a strange and dangerous place...": This acknowledges the harsh realities Catherine faces as a young girl in medieval England. She experiences societal expectations, pressure to marry, and the limitations imposed on her as a woman.
* "Things in it that will try to break you": This emphasizes the challenges Catherine will encounter. These challenges can be both external, like forced marriage, and internal, like her own insecurities and doubts.
* "But you are strong. You are resilient. You are beautiful": This is a powerful affirmation of Catherine's inner strength. Despite the challenges, she possesses the strength to endure, the ability to adapt, and the inherent beauty both within and without.
* "And you are worth fighting for": This is the most important part of the advice. It encourages Catherine to stand up for herself and her own happiness, to fight against those who try to control her, and to live authentically.
Madame Joanna's advice is a call to action for Catherine. It urges her to never give up on herself, to value her own worth, and to fight for her own desires and aspirations. The advice becomes a guiding principle for Catherine as she navigates the challenges of adolescence and the limitations imposed by her society.
In essence, Madame Joanna's advice is about finding strength within oneself, embracing individuality, and fighting for the right to live a fulfilling life, even in a world that often tries to define you. It is a powerful reminder that everyone has the potential to overcome obstacles and create their own path.