I pretend I am a princess, so that I can try and behave like one

I pretend I am a princess, so that I can try and behave like one

Frances Hodgson Burnett, the beloved author of classic children's novels such as "The Secret Garden" and "A Little Princess," had a knack for creating strong, imaginative female characters who often found themselves in challenging circumstances. In her novel "A Little Princess," the protagonist, Sara Crewe, is a young girl who is forced to adapt to a life of poverty and hardship after being raised as a pampered and privileged child.

One of the most memorable aspects of Sara's character is her ability to maintain her dignity and grace even in the face of adversity. Despite her reduced circumstances, Sara continues to carry herself with the poise and elegance of a princess. This ability to "pretend" to be a princess is not just a coping mechanism for Sara, but a way for her to hold onto her sense of self-worth and dignity in the face of overwhelming challenges.

In the context of Frances Hodgson Burnett's work, the idea of pretending to be a princess takes on a deeper meaning. It is not just about playing dress-up or imagining a life of luxury and privilege. Instead, it is about embodying the qualities of a princess – grace, kindness, courage, and resilience – in the face of adversity.

For Sara Crewe, pretending to be a princess is not just a game or a fantasy, but a way of life. It is a way for her to hold onto her sense of identity and self-worth in the midst of difficult circumstances. By behaving like a princess, Sara is able to rise above her circumstances and inspire those around her with her strength and grace.