The Song of the Lark

Thea Kronborg is the central protagonist of The Song of the Lark. The novel follows her journey from a unique child to a famous opera singer. Thea’s character development is emblematic of the American Dream, in which hard work, grit, sacrifice, luck, and self-reliance lead to success.

As a child, Thea is different from the rest of Moonstone. The adults in her life interpret this difference as “both imagination and a stubborn will, curiously balancing and interpenetrating each other. There was something unconscious and unawakened about her, that tempted curiosity” (47-48). Thea is characterized by others through her potential, her unique talent, and her strong personality. Crucially, none of the adults in her life expect Thea to follow the normative path of becoming a wife, mother, and homemaker. This is important because Thea’s character development is enhanced by the support she receives from society to be herself, despite her instinct that she was born in conflict with Moonstone society. Thea is also characterized by her work ethic, devotion to her family, and her love for her community. Thea sees the best in people, including Professor Wunsch, whom the rest of the community dismisses as an alcoholic.