Xiao Xiao by Shen Congwen: Character Analysis

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SHEN CONGWEN
1 Describe Xiao Xiao's character. Use specific examples from the story to illustrate her character traits.
Xiaoxiao is carefree and dutiful. For young girls, getting married means leaving their mothers to become in time, someone else’s mother (227). However, Xiaoxiao does not care about becoming a wife. Xiaoxiao undertakes all the daily work expected of her. She cares for toddler husband with utmost devotion.
2 What does Grandfather repeatedly tease Xiao Xiao about?
The grandfather teases Xiaoxiao that she will become coed. The coeds behaved differently from the rest of the population (229). They do not care about gender roles but instead, the coeds do what they want. While Xiaoxiao objects to becoming a coed, she wishes to join them someday.
3 How does Motley Mutt get close to Xiao Xiao?
Motley Mutt uses his ability to sing to attract Xiaoxiao. Motley understands that the Little Husband does not understand the songs and hence uses the opportunity to entice Xiaoxiao. The ultimate aim of Motley is to have Xiaoxiao to himself and hence folk songs offer a perfect medium to do it.
4 Why is Xiao Xiao allowed to continue to live with her in-laws while she is pregnant and after the baby is born?