Introduction
Survival against all odds is at the heart of Robert C. O'Brien's Newbery Medal-winning novel, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. When Mrs. Frisby's family falls ill at the most dangerous time of year, she must overcome her timid nature to save them, demonstrating incredible inner strength, courage, and intelligence. An analysis of Mrs. Frisby's survival strategies provides important lessons that extend far beyond the pages of the novel. This essay will examine the meaning of survival as portrayed in Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, arguing that Mrs. Frisby’s survival exemplifies the power of moral fortitude and ingenuity in the face of adversity. Examining this text through the lens of survival reveals deeper insights into facing difficult challenges with perseverance and resourcefulness.
Robert C. O'Brien's Classic Novel
Published in 1971, Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien tells the story of a widowed field mouse, Mrs. Frisby, who must move her family to safety despite grave danger. Set on a farm in rural Massachusetts, the story follows Mrs. Frisby's quest to save her children from pneumonia as the farmer prepares to plow the fields where they live. She crosses paths with a group of highly intelligent rats living under the rose bush who were formerly part of lab experiments at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). These rats agree to help move Mrs. Frisby's home to safety. The novel became an American classic for its themes of courage, ethics, and sacrifice. O'Brien anthropomorphizes the animal characters to explore universal survival challenges through a metaphorical tale.
Courage: A Mother's Determination to Protect Her Family
Though she is initially portrayed as shy and vulnerable, Mrs. Frisby demonstrates remarkable courage and determination when her children's lives are at stake. When she realizes the farmer will soon plow down her home, Mrs. Frisby resolves to do whatever it takes to save her family despite the substantial risks involved. As a widowed mother, she accepts sole responsibility for her children’s survival, steeling herself to venture into the dangerous winter environment. When she meets the rats of NIMH, Mrs. Frisby stands up to them with moral authority, convincing them to assist her. She risks everything for love, affirming the power of courage.
Ingenuity and Adaptability: The Power of Quick Thinking
In addition to courage, Mrs. Frisby’s survival depends on her intelligence and creativity when problems arise. She shows ingenuity and adaptability in navigating unexpected threats like Dragon the cat. To outwit the rats’ security system, she fashions a makeshift rope to climb a cement block wall. Her quick thinking and refusal to accept defeat enable her family’s narrow escape. Mrs. Frisby also displays scientific curiosity and ability in learning about the rats’ injections at NIMH. Her inquisitive nature is a survival skill allowing her to gain new knowledge to protect her family.
The Role of Luck and the Power of Determination
Some may argue that Mrs. Frisby’s survival depends more on luck and the intervention of others than her own merits. It's true she benefits from chance encounters and aid along her journey. However, it is Mrs. Frisby’s strong will that motivates her to even seek help, and her wisdom in winning others to her cause. She makes her own luck through determination. While she accepts assistance, her survival is primarily due to tapping into her own courage, love, and intelligence when all seems lost.
Conclusion
Mrs. Frisby's quest to save her family captures the essence of survival against seemingly impossible odds. Through this uplifting allegory, O’Brien suggests we all have hidden wells of inner strength and moral purpose to tap into when faced with life's challenges. Mrs. Frisby's example continues to inspire readers to find courage, hope, and perseverance even in the darkest of times. Her story is a timeless call to never surrender to hardship or despair. Though the road is fraught with perils, with inner fortitude and imagination, we have the power to survive and triumph.
