Question

Why does Jack insist that it was the wizard that was hit and not the mother?

Hint:

In story analysis questions, focus on the relationship dynamics and the underlying values the author is portraying through the characters.

Answer 1

In the story, Jack is narrating a tale to his daughter Jo. When Jo suggests that the mother should be punished for her unkindness, Jack insists that it was the wizard who got hit instead. This reveals Jack’s perspective as a parent, where he wants to maintain the image of mothers as figures of authority and love. Jack does not want Jo to question or challenge parental authority. His insistence also shows his attempt to reinforce traditional family structures and to shield his daughter from ideas that might cause conflict between children and parents.
Final Answer: Jack insists the wizard was hit, not the mother, because he wants to protect the image of mothers as authority figures and maintain the respect and obedience children should have toward their parents.