Characterization of the granddaughter

Outer characterization

The granddaughter is the main character of the story “Butterflies” by Patricia Grace. She is a girl of school age. She has long hair, which she wears in two plaits when she goes to school. She lives with her grandparents in a house with a garden which she helps take care of. Although it is not explicitly stated in the story, given the author’s connection to Maori culture, we might assume that the granddaughter is Maori.

Inner characterization

The granddaughter appears to be a bright, intelligent girl. She is described by the neighbor as “fine”, and by her grandfather as “clever”. She also appears to be a hard-working student: “ ‘writes every day in her book.’ ”

The granddaughter is obedient. She listens to her grandparents and follows their a...