And now she had learnt that not only to will, but also to pray, was a necessary condition in the truly heroic

And now she had learnt that not only to will, but also to pray, was a necessary condition in the truly heroic

In Elizabeth Gaskell's novel "North and South," the character Margaret Hale undergoes a transformation from a sheltered, privileged young woman to a strong, independent individual who stands up for her beliefs and fights for justice. The quote "And now she had learnt that not only to will, but also to pray, was a necessary condition in the truly heroic" encapsulates Margaret's journey towards becoming a truly heroic figure.

At the beginning of the novel, Margaret is portrayed as a naive and idealistic young woman who is sheltered from the harsh realities of the world. However, as she is exposed to the poverty and suffering of the working class in the industrial town of Milton, she begins to question her own beliefs and values. She realizes that simply willing for change is not enough; she must also take action and pray for guidance and strength.

Margaret's transformation into a heroic figure is not an easy one. She faces numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, including the disapproval of her family and society, as well as her own internal struggles. However, through her determination and perseverance, she is able to overcome these challenges and emerge as a strong and courageous woman who is willing to fight for what she believes in.

The act of praying is significant in Margaret's journey towards heroism. It represents her faith and belief in something greater than herself, and her willingness to seek guidance and support from a higher power. By combining her willpower with prayer, Margaret is able to tap into a source of strength and courage that enables her to face the challenges ahead.

Overall, the quote "And now she had learnt that not only to will, but also to pray, was a necessary condition in the truly heroic" highlights the importance of faith, determination, and action in the face of adversity. Through Margaret's journey in "North and South," Elizabeth Gaskell demonstrates that true heroism is not just about physical strength or bravery, but also about moral courage, compassion, and a willingness to stand up for what is right.