As we talked about in class, I
found the representation of the Goblin's fruit to have many different
symbolisms and meanings. From my point of view, I find that the Goblin Market takes on a Christianity
feel. The goblins represent devils that are peddling fruit or “sin”. Devils are
normally described as monstrous creatures with deformities and Christina
Rossetti describes the goblins as “Cat-like and rat-like, ratel-and
wombat-like, snail-paced in a hurry, Parrot-voiced and whistler, helter
skelter, hurry skurry..” They are obviously not human and though she made it
unclear whether or not the goblins would be considered “cute” it is assumed
that they are not due their mischievous demeanor and their obvious delight at
giving Laura fruit that she couldn’t even pay for (she paid for it with a lock
of her hair). As soon as Laura consumes the “sin” her outward appearance slowly
starts to whither. Her hair becomes grey; she no longer eats food or feels joy
and is constantly listening out for the goblins’ cry so that she may purchase
the fruit again. That is Laura’s “punishment” for eating the fruit that she had
been constantly warned against eating, which also could represent the burden
put upon man when he sins. Eventually Lizzie goes and confronts the goblins, sacrificing
herself in order to save her sister. Lizzie then could be easily viewed as a
Christ-like figure since through her own pain and suffering she “resurrected”
her sister.
Why was Laura so easily tempted
to eat the fruit while Lizzie was not?
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