A Lantern in Her Hand

In A Lantern in Her Hand, the lantern is the primary symbol that defines Abbie’s character development and the novel’s message as a whole. The lantern is a controlling metaphor, a repeated symbol that is also a motif throughout the novel. Because it is so often referenced, the lantern symbolizes leadership, resilience, strength, and motherhood. These are elements that define Abbie as the ideal pioneer woman. The lantern is both a literal lantern used while pioneering and a metaphorical light.

In literature, light is a symbol of enlightenment and guidance. When Abbie is a pioneer, she and Will are isolated from society. They and their tiny band of fellow pioneers must create their own society. Therefore, the lantern in Abbie’s hand is representative of guiding herself and others through the unknown. The pioneer journey is one marked by strife, and no one truly knows if their efforts to create a society will work. The lantern therefore operates as a symbol of faith that their dreams of a fruitful and good society will come to fruition.

When Abbie has established her home and town, the lantern then becomes a guiding light for her family. In this