I know I didn't get to share my thoughts on last week's discussion when I was supposed to, but I got them on there now and you can read them now!
Well here we are with only 7 chapters left in the story of Rosa. This week we are discussing chapter 11-13. Here are my thoughts on them:
CHAPTER 11:Rosa Makes Herself Known
I wonder why Rosa was so adamant about going to see her father. I mean, I don't think she is planning his escape nor could she pull it off anyway.
Such a sweet reunion of father and daughter! God really was directing Rosa's steps for her to be able to be in charge of the whole prison and have this time with her dad! Although I bet Rosa didn't wanted to hear "Now I can die in peace" from her father after she took so much to get to him!
What a wonderful parting lesson, Edelbert gave Rosa.
CHAPTER 12:Rosa Ministers To Her Father
What a surprise to see Kunerick show up at the gate cottage! Such arrogance Kunerick has! Seriously that dude needs to get knocked down a couple of notches... actually a lot od notches! To think that a servant girl would be in awe of him is just disgusting!
I wonder what war Kunerick is raging. Who it is against and why? Maybe this will be the moment he gets what is coming... or maybe this will be when he is shown mercy and love even when he didn't show it to others.
Rosa was taught truly well. She knows what the place of a daughter is. To render comfort to her father no matter what the situation is.
I still hope that no one sees that Rosa taking her father out into the garden. Who knows what could happen to her.
I love what Edelbert says here: "You see, my child, how favors bestowed upon others, though forgotten by us, will never be without reward." So very true! When I am out, I always am watchful of other around me, so that if the need be, I am able to help them.
CHAPTER 13:Rosa Is Counseled
Ahh, we now see what happens to prideful people... they fall. Here we find Kunerick wounded, out of money and alone. Such a sad place we end up with we let pride take over!
Wow! I did not expect that speech about Kunerick... especially from Rosa. The sweet tempered, frail girl. When we allow thoughts like that to enter our heads and hearts, we are liable to lose all that is good and pure. Good thing her father is there to stop her and turn her around! Edelbert has given another powerful speech to Rosa. She is truly blessed to have a father like that!
Such a open heart is Rosa's. To accept her father's words with an open mind and heart, and to turn to obedience to those words is so nice to see! I struggle with opening my heart when I am corrected.
I wonder what the coming opportunity is! I am waiting in anticipation, are you?
Please post your discussion here in the comments or on your blog, and give us a link! We would love to read and discuss your thoughts about these three chapters!
My elegant daughter, Miss Lady Rachel, has asked to present her discussion of Rosa this week for us.
Thank you, Rachel Dear. Rachel has brought up some insightful issues from the book, and I am grateful she has written this out.
Rosa as a Collier's Daughter Ch.7
I was glad to see that Rosa was able to become the collier's daughter, and was content to stay there with Burkhard and his family for awhile. Burkhard does everything he can to make Rosa's life a happy one while she is in his home. He brings her trifles from the woods.
I was glad that Rosa was fervently praying for her father's release, not just lamenting her father's capture. She helps around Burkhard's home, and does the chores and housekeeping with Agnes. What a joy it must have been for Rosa to have such a friend as Agnes!
As I was reading, I knew the blow was coming for when Rosa would become so worried about her father that she would no longer be content to stay there with Burkhard but would want to do something to free her father.
Oh honest Burkhard is so kind and loving! He goes and tries to get men to storm Kunerick's castle, but they are all to afraid of the evil Kunerick to do so.
Rosa Seeks Employment In The Enemy's Castle Ch.8
I was afraid for Rosa's safety when she made up her mind to go to Kunerick's castle to try to see her father through servanthood. What a merciful God do we serve. She knew she had nothing to fear because her God was beside her and would guide her steps. Thank you Lord, for bringing her safely to the castle and letting her safely return.
I was not, however, thankful for the new mistress under whom she was employed. I knew she would be harsh and treat Rosa badly. But the good Rosa bears this treatment with a good will and a light step. She is truly the example I wish to follow.
Rosa In The Capacity Of A Servant Ch.9
I was glad that Rosa felt such an attachment to Burkhard and his family when she left them. It was sad, but it was comforting to know that they would be there if ever she needed to come back and stay with them.
The work with which Rosa was employed was hard for her. Her example has inspired me to act in the Christian manner Rosa acts even though she is treated badly and did work she was not accustomed to.
I will try to act like Rosa as I do my work around the house and honour my father and mother by doing my work cheerfully, not complaining and being bossy to those who are younger than I.
Happy Reading!
CHAPTER 7:Rosa as a Collier's Daughter
As we start to read we see that Burkhard went to gather Edelbert's men to help release him, but they were too scared of Kunerick. Isn't that how it always is? You help a friend in need, then when you are the one in need, they are scared to help. It is sad, but it is true!
It is so wonderful to see how Burkhard treats Rosa... but I can't help but wonder what Agnes is thinking. Reading about how Burkhard brings her gifts, takes her on walks, and gives her the best, is making me wonder about Agnes... where is she? Why isn't she going with them and getting these also? I know that Rosa is the child of royalty, but still it seems that he is not including his daughter in all the special things, and that can be a bad thing in the future!
OK... so I wrote that above before I read the rest of the chapter! :P I love how the whole family is involved and they each try and make Rosa a part of the family!
Oh man! I knew that when Burkhard said about his brother collier's daughter, that Rosa was going to go and become a maid at Kunerick's castle! Oi! You know I have seen things when people go closer to the place they should be far away from because its the last place people will look for you! We'll see what if Rosa's plan will work!
CHAPTER 8:Rosa Seeking Employment
That was really sweet of Rosa to be so kind to the children! It always makes me smile when I see children being treated kindly!
Its really no wonder that the other servant didn't want to take anymore produce up to the castle. The steward's wife is mean. We see that when we read on about her being only happy when she gets her way.
Agnes is such a sweet friend! To have waited all day for Rosa!
I wonder how Rosa will take being a servant in the man's house who took so much from her! CHAPTER 9: Rosa In The Capacity of A Servant
I wonder why Rosa feels forsaken after Agnes leaves... its not like she was alone and in pain. She was in a happy home and was going to be well looked after!
When I first read about Rosa's new mistress and how she dispelled of maids, it made me think that it was more of the girls than the mistress. I guess we found out about that didn't we!
It is sad to see Rosa working so hard, but then again, she did go and want this position, so she had to know that she would be doing that type of stuff.
CHAPTER 10:Rosa Visits Her Father In Prison
Funny how most of the time when we ask for things (whether they really be good for us or not), God makes a way to show us that we didn't really want them after all. It seems like that with Rosa. Now she, a girl, is going to be in charge of a bunch of prisoners. I don't know if that is going to be a good thing or not. Yes, she will get to see her father, but what else is she going to be exposed to emotionally?
A thought just occurred... what is her father going to say when he sees her? If I were him, I would be none too happy that my daughter was a servant in Kunerick's castle.
Now we read about the prisoners that Rosa is going to be exposed to... robbers and murders. Not a very good place for a girl to be in, let alone in charge of!
What a sad moment when Rosa sees her father so! Poor girl. It is good to see that Edelbert is searching for information about Rosa. It is sad he doesn't recognize she is standing right in front of him!
I was so happy to write my discussion. It is such a wonderful book... if only I could pick one equally great!
Thank you for putting it on here!
Love,
Rachel
Thank you Rachel.
I loved the insight you had into Rosa and her life at the collier's. I believe that God allowed her to go there to them so that she could see and maybe just express that a grand home and a prestigious name is not what is important.
Her leaning on the Lord and not giving into a sinful, melancholy attitude was a great lesson for all. we never remember that there is always someone in worse circumstances than ourselves, and God's hand is still truly upon our lives.
I did mine! Here's the link for my discussion on my blog -
http://dixonhomestead.com/rachel/?p=93
Hope everyone else is ready to do theirs!
Love,
Rachel
Since we went on a two-week vacation, we have had to modify the schedule as many of you have already noticed. I must apologize for not getting my discussion and the other neat information I had hoped to get on here.
I have already started adding a few new features like a Vocabulary List and A Closer Look at Rosa.
Here is the new discussion/posting schedule for Rosa of Linden Castle:
Chapters 1-3: June 25th
Chapters 4-6: July 2nd
Chapters 7-10: July 9th
Chapters 11-13: July 16
Chapters 14-17: July 23
Chapters 18-20: July 30
We plan to select and announce our next read SOON to give you plenty of time to order it and plan ahead.
We do plan to start the discussion of our next read on August 20th, which will coincide with a new school year, if you wish to read it for your homeschool.
Please see the ORIGINAL POST to read up on posting your own discussion.
Please leave a comment if you are still reading along (or you are almost finished!). Thanks! I hope you are staying cool and taking breaks to splash around and eat ice cream /with your children this summer!!
I know I am extremely behind with this reading, but I have been so enjoying my time reading it.
So here are my thoughts on this awesome book! :)
Chapter 1:Rosa's Early History
I like how the book sets you up with a picturesque type setting. It is almost like reading a fairytale of King Arthur, whom I have personally enjoyed reading about! To read about Edelbert and Matilda and how the Duke of Swabia are connected and blessed is really nice.
I was sad to read that Edelbert is not home often. It must have been hard on Matilda to raise Rosa pretty much on her own.
I loved reading about how Matilda has raised Rosa. It has made me think about how I want to raise my daughters. I am now at an age where I can see how things are done and decide if I want to do them or not and can take notes.
The relationship between Matilda and Rosa is such a sweet one. It is so sweet to see Matilda wake up early so she can watch the sun rise with Rosa. The way she incorporates God into everything is such a great example and reminder that that is what is really important to make sure we teach our children. Out of everything we can teach them, teaching them that God is awesome and to look for Him in all creation, that is most important! I love that she walked with her and talked with her like it says to do in Deuteronomy 6:7, "And thoushaltteach themdiligently unto thy children, and shalttalk of them when thousittest in thinehouse, and when thouwalkest by the way, and when thouliest down, and when thourisest up."
At the end of chapter 1, I love the sentence: "She frequently took her daughter with her to the throne of grace, and so war were her expressions of gratitude for mercies received, and so fervent her petitions to God for the blessings upon her husband, her child herself, and mankind, that the impressions made upon Rosa's mind were never effaced."
That right there sums up what a mother's most important goal in life is. To make her faith in God so alive and impressed upon, that they are not any where close to be pushed out or removed by anything! That is such a great testimony!
Chapter 2:The Death of Rosa's Mother
I don't like the name of this chapter. What a very short time to have with your mother. Rosa is younger than I am, and I know there is still so much I need to learn from my Mama. I wonder Edelbert is having regrets about not being home with his wife now that he will never see her again on earth.
What a lovely attitude of leaving this life Matilda has. It reminds me of Little Louisa's.
I love the words of comfort that Matilda gives to Rosa and her father. I love how Rosa accepts her mothers advice to be under her father's eyes and protection.
The ending of chapter 2 leaves us with a sad, yet wonderful picture of how much Matilda had done for her town and how much she is going to be missed. I know that everyone who knew her will not easily forget her. That is how I want to be remember. I want people to remember for what I have done for others.
Chapter 3:Seizure of Edelbert By Kunerick
Rosa gives us an amazing example of what a daughter is supposed to do. The way she cares for her father after he gets hurt and she makes sure that he isn't thinking about the time he is doing nothing. She tries to give him something to do that he will enjoy, like telling what happened in the past.
I am so astonished that Kunerick thinks he can just come in and take Edelbert prisoner and steal this things! It is appalling and it is sad.
I am glad to see that Kunerick left Rosa alone rather than take her away! That would have just been horrible and who knows if her father would have been able to bear it.
Chapter 4: Separation and Imprisonment
The command and speech that Edelbert gives Rosa is so touching. I love it that Edelbert tells Rosa what is best for her and guides her even though they are in chains and about to be apart. The words he speaks are so gentle, yet so commanding. It is just so great to see how he makes sure to tell her the important things, even though he knows she already knows them!
Poor Rosa, to not only lose her mother, but also her father! It would be so hard for me if both of my parents were taken away from me! What a horrible thing too to have to see your father, your hero treated the way he was! A great knight who is treating worse than dirt! Kunerick is such a hateful and horrible man!
Chapter 5:Rosa Seeks Refuge
It must have been frightening for Rosa to go through that forest when she had no idea where she was going. I know I get worried when I am going to a new place that I know where it is, but am not absolutely certain how to get there.
It is comforting to know that Rosa has a friend in Burkhard. I think maybe that is what helped her go through the forest, knowing that in the middle of it was a friend whom she could find refuge in!
It must have broken Burkhard's heart to hear what happened to his beloved friend! I know I would be very sorrowful to hear of a friend that I count as a sister that was taken into imprisonment or sin.
It is inspiring to know that Burkhard will take care of Rosa and find a way to free Edelbert!
Chapter 6:The Meeting of Rosa and Agnes
I love what Burkhard says about sleep and rest: "What a blessing sleep is. It makes us forget our sorrows, and, for a season, removes the burdens which we are called to bear in life, and imparts renewed strength, that we may be better able to take them up again." How many times have you gone to bed with a heavy heart, only to fall asleep and dream wonderful things, and then wake up and realize that your heavy heart is still there, like Rosa? At first you think, it was a bad dream, but then you realize it was life and it happened and now you have to deal with it.
It is nice to see how Burkhard looks after Rosa like he does Agnes. He is truly a great friend!
I wonder what Rosa is thinking as she comes into view of Burkhard's house. I wonder if she wishes she lived out there with all of God's glory instead of the castle. We come to see as the chapter ends that she is thankful for their little home in the woods because God knew this day would come and how it is so great that He provided this family to care for her now.
Make sure to read Eyebright's discussion and Mama's too! They have some really great thoughts on this book.
Next week we will be discussion chapters 7-10. Be sure to have your discussion ready, so I can link to you, so everyone can read what you think!
Rosa of Linden Castle
Chapter 4
Rosa , even in her distress, immediately cried out to God, O Lord help! Oh help us! Her father compelled her to calmly refocus and to put her trust in God rather than to panic. I loved how he admitted to his failings in trusting his own strength in the past in that it teaches us to realize the lack of success in that method. He renounced that error and resolved to look only to God from that time forward.
Edelbert instructs Rosa as to where she can find a safe haven and encourages her not to let her privileged life cause her grief and it seemed not to be. That is in and of itself remarkable and nearly unheard of, but Matilda had raised Rosa in such a way that she was neither prideful nor lazy. Her station could have afforded her no only material luxuries, but also indulgences of the mind. Instead, Rosa was trained to be respectful, diligent and resourceful. All of these skills will certainly be to the young ladys benefit now.
Edelbert also exhorts Rosa to be prayerful and to above all things, remain innocent and virtuous. A bit later he repeats the same advice and adds to it Love God. Cleave to your blessed Redeemer. Obey his kind instructions. Avoid the very appearance of evil
Somehow Edelbert had had the presence of mind to hide the medal the emperor had given him and gave it to Rosa as a keepsake and told her to never part with it and also to let it be a reminder to her of where she had come from and with Whos help she would go forward. So in essence it was a token of her blessed past and a symbol of hope in the face of an uncertain future.
I can only hope that in such dire straits I would have not only the presence of mind to issue such exhortations, but that they would be appropriately trained to meet the tasks before them.
Chapter 5
Rosas fearful and tearful departure took her away from her beloved home to search for Burkhards cottage. Wild animals, hunger, the risk of losing her way and sorrow grasped at Rosas heart.
When she did actually get lost she remembered to call out to God in prayer. The rising smoke from Burkhards coal fire that led her from that place made me think of the pillar of cloud that served as a guide for the Israelites in the desert.
When Burkhard learned of Edelberts fate, he was horrified. He almost failed to stop himself from pronouncing a curse upon Edelberts enemy. It was a sweet reminder of how we are to bless those who persecute us.
Not only did Burkhard comfort Rosa with sustenance, but with words of hope in the Lord and His plan. Then he offered up his one-person hut for Rosa to sleep. Burkhard did not sleep, but sat a worried, but prayerful vigil near the coal pit all that night in the midst of a raging storm. What a picture of responsibility and self-sacrifice.
Would that we will extend such hospitality and kindness to those in need in our own lives.
Chapter 6
When Agnes arrived with food for her father, she was instructed to take Rosa to their home. Rosa was grateful for the care of these dear ones.
The journey to the colliers home provided an illustration of HOPE in the trials of life and how God is faithful to always provide a means of escape. Each member of the family endured their own shock and grief and yet set aside their own feelings in order to give their attention to Rosa in her time of need.
The colliers wife reflected on a tender realization when she considered that when Edelbert had helped Burkhard build their home that he was unknowingly preparing a refuge for his own daughter.
Rosa was instructed to fully make herself at home and she felt consoled and thankful rather than entitled to such.
The attitudes of each of these characters provide a Godly model for us to strive to emulate in time of trouble.
I am way too far behind on posting my Rosa discussion. Since we went got Back Home, I have not yet caught up!
Chapter One deserves to be read and pored over all on its own time. What a beautiful picture of little Rosa and her mothers care! I am greatly challenged and in awe of her. She is caring for her little girl when her husband is gone, which seems to be quite often. She has instilled a love for Daddy into her little girls heart so much so that she serves her Daddy in sweetness and kindness and love and treats him like a King. It is such a lovely picture of a Godly mom and dad raising up their child to know the Lord in a very personal, everyday way. It is not a life of reading it in a book or hearing a story about it. It is direct conversation. And, it is real-something that is lived in word and deed.
All of the lessons that Mathilda teaches Rosa are straight out of the Scripture. I felt like this chapter alone was one that I need to read and reread to get the picture in my mind of Deuteronomy 6, to walk with and talk with our children, daily passing on the word and laws of God.
I am sorrowful, again, that this little girl has lost her mother. I guess these books are set in such a time that a young death is accepted. At least it is a sweet departure and admonition from a wife and mother who knew the Lord and His Word and was not ashamed to speak it. Also, she really lived it in a pious manner, so it is something that she can say in humility and surety.
I, too, wondered about Rosa's father being gone so much, but I think it was just the way it was. I don't think there was the 'pressure' there is today to fit into a mold, because they didn't have time to worry about a 'mold'. I don't think he looked at it as time away, but as time he was doing his duty and doing it for his family. I think that men today feel the same way underneath a lot of times (tho there are times when they are workaholics). I think they just accept that they have to be gone to work to get the bills paid and do what they can for their families.
I really love the time Rosa and her father have to sit and talk about his life. It is a shame that her mother did not get to partake of it, but it is a sweet fellowship that we get to see, and his love for his family and his character comes through, where we previously had little idea of it.
I hadn't thought about Kunerick leaving Rosa alone to go. I guess he is chivalrous, in his own way. Maybe he just knew his fight was with her father. I know a lot of times they would have sought out the heir to kill, so she is fortunate in that! Or protected, I guess, by her heavenly father!
It will be interesting to see what becomes of their relationship and the trials they will face. I know that Rosa has a steady foundation laid by her Mother, and I am sure tragedy is right around the corner.
I must heartily agree with you, Amanda. It is so touching when Edelbert knows he has imprisonment and probably death, and yet he speaks so calmly and so gently that Rosa has no choice but to obey the wishes of her father.
Yes, poor Rosa. To have not only her mother, but now also her father taken away... it is a sad thing indeed. I don't know what I would do if my father and my mother were separated from me. I would not know what I would do! I'm so glad that when Edelbert is in chains, and he is giving Rosa her instructions that is not weeping and making it all the harder for Rosa to leave him.
What a horrible man Kunerick is! hateful, unfeeling, evil man! I am ashamed at the way a man would treat his fellow man. They are equal. We all are. He had no right, no power to do what he did. But he did it anyways, all because of his selfish, prideful, unfeeling self. Did he think about Rosa and what was best for her? No, of course not. he only thought of his own ambition. I hope I never know a man such as Kunerick! And if ever I do, may the Lord help me to show him the evil of his actions.
In the 5th chapter, I cannot imagine what Rosa is going through as she stumbles through the forest in search of Burkhard. I was so amazed when, instead of trying to get out of the forest to get to people, she cries out to God to deliver her. What faith Rosa had in the Lord! What inspiring faith she had! How did she know that God was there with her, listening to her cries? She didn't, but she had the faith of a mustard seed, until the seed grew into a small seedling of a tree. How great the faith of a child is! Help me, Lord, to have faith such as Rosa's! I thank you, Lord, that is is possible for me to have that kind of faith.
I was so glad when Rosa awakened from her sleep and Agnes was there to comfort her and make her feel welcome. I have not read the next three chapters, but I have a feeling that Rosa and Agnes become dear friends to each other. What a blessing it is to have friends whom can love you and who care for you! Life is a cookie, and friends are the chocolate chips. I am not sure where I heard that, but it is certainly true with Rosa and Agnes. I am sure that Rosa would not have been able to go through the days under Burkhard's roof without Agnes.
Thank you for such a lively discussion. I can't wait to read chapters 7-10! Wonderful choice of book, Eyebright!
Love,
Rachel
Here is the link for my discussion on my blog:
http://dixonhomestead.com/rachel/?p=75
Thank you to Christina for guest-posting her discussion this week.
I had two wisdom teeth removed last week, and I am just getting over the pain, in addition to finalizing and helping SisterLisa in publishing GGM on June 1st, so we have been busy-busy!
I am loving this book though. I love the way Lamplighters show what living a life of Deuteronomy 6 looks like. The examples of living, walking and talking your faith to your children, instead of just using 'Bible stories' and other teachers to teach the Word is so refreshing. I love how it tells of Matilda walking with little Rosa. What a sweet picture of a lovely, Godly mother. I am going to reread that, just because it was so encouraging!
Please feel free to leave comments here, but also announce your discussion on your personal blog and invite your readers to share in it!
I enjoy the Lamplighter books immensely. This was a little slower at the start, but soon had me enraptured! Edelbert and Matilda sound like wonderfully devoted parents. I always marvel at the description of a person being pious. Would that we all would strive to be more pious and Christ-like!
I really enjoyed picturing Matilda’s method of introducing her daughter to God and His wonderful world. It was not in taking her to Sunday School, or in reading the pop culture books of the day, but instead of walking with her and talking with her day in and day out as we are instructed in Deuteronomy 6. It was in pointing out the wonders around them and drawing her heart to the truths of God’s presence. It was in investing a deep respect for the awesomeness of God into Rosa’s life! In this day and age we are so quick to look for an easy way to do things and even strive to delegate the remarkable task of raising children in the nurture and admonition of God to others. I would love to be more like Matilda and delight more in my duty to my children!
Through her mother’s diligent instruction Rosa learned the beloved words of the Scripture and to acknowledge God in all things and at all times. She also learned by her mother’s example to consider the needs of others before her own. She grew to be more like her mother in generosity and in tender kindness. The story of Rosa’s release of her own desires to bless a widowed mother was convicting and touching. There are so many times when I want things (or situations to be different) and feel frustrated at my inability to obtain them. If I were more like Rosa I would be not only happy with what I have, but willing to share what I have with those who are in greater need.
Rosa was often rewarded with fresh fruit from the garden and I was impressed that she knew to always ask before picking the flowers or partaking of any other delight. She was taught to be immediately obedient to any command and that so with a cheerful heart. Matilda was obviously a master at tying heart strings!
Rosa was taught not to revel in her outer beauty, but to endeavor to let Christ shine through her by means of a meek and quiet spirit. The reader is often reminded that not only were these lessons taught to young Rosa, but they were lived by her mother. I pray that my own example will be ever improving and impressing upon my own children’s hearts and minds.
Can you imagine the death of your mother? Even more injurious such a loss would be at the tender age of 14. Rosa was yet a very young lady when her mother became ill and died. It is a blessing that she was by that time so well-trained, but a tragedy that she was left with such a huge emptiness in the place that her mother had fully filled in the previous nearly decade and a half of her life. The bigger a role a person has in our lives, the more their absence is felt when they are gone!
Was it not touching how unselfish the mother was in her last moments? She did not express fear or pity for herself. On the contrary, she left her husband and daughter with such warmth and love and exhortation that they must have been encouraged even in the face of such a traumatic time. What a goal to have, to leave this world with a sense of the love of life in Christ rather than in the struggle with death.
Following her mother’s death, Rosa’s father became a bigger part of her life. Due to his frequent absences he had entrusted the greater portion of her upbringing to Matilda. Now he shares with Rosa a number of things including a story of an enemy and a friend of whom Matilda had little or no previous knowledge. Ironically, on that very day, the enemy’s wrath rose again against Edelbert after a long time of it having lain dormant. It is good that Edelbert had shared this story with Rosa just in time or she might have been impossibly confused by the sudden tragic seizure of her father by his enemy. This reminds me that we must constantly be preparing our children for that which they may need to face in the future. This will take a great deal of guidance from God!
I will be curious to see what adventures or tragedy may next befall the dear father and daughter. Will she lose her father now too? Will she ever see him again? What will become of the enemy and what will become of the friend of which the father spoke?
In the meantime, may I remember to refrain from self-pity and be singular in my daily tasks. May my priority be to point each of my children Heavenward to a relationship with God and also heart ward to a relationship with their father and me. I challenge each of you to do the same… build the family that God has placed YOU in with an urgency towards preparation and to do so with both reverence AND delight!
I love this book!!! I read the whole thing when it arrived, and though it took me a bit to get used to the way it's worded, I was soon hooked!!
Tonight I started reading it to my girls. They seem to like it, and I'm hoping that they pick up on the great things that this book has to offer, such as complete obedience to parents.
I also took stuff from the book as well, such as the way Matilda taught Rosa about God, and helping other people.
I have written my comments on Chapters 1-3 on my blog. I hope we haven't already moved on to other chapters, because if we are following the schedule in the previous post I am WAY behind! :)
First, before I start my discussion, I want to agree with what Amanda said in her discussion - I love the way everything is so picturesque in the Lamplighter books. I have noticed that in all of them. I suppose that that is for the reader to understand what is happening.
Now, my discussion.
When I first started reading the Rosa of Linden Castle book, I was not at all prepared for what lay ahead. It was very calming for me to read how Rosa's mother taught her with the simplest things the morals which she would need in the years to come.
When I read that her beloved mother soon went to be with the Lord, I was heartbroken for Rosa and Edelbert. I hate it when people have to die that should live much longer lives. I felt the same way with Clara or The Red and White Roses. But I think that because of the farewell wishes her mother gave to her, she was able to bear it better, and with a more composed spirit. If my mother had died, I don't know what I would do. I would be completely lost without my dear Momma who takes such good care of me and teaches me the things I will need to learn for life. Just as Rosa's mother did. I was thankful in the knowledge that Rosa and Edelbert would, someday, see her again in Heaven. That was a comfort to me. But, they could not have made it any better by her father being taken captive either and taken away from Rosa.
Oh how cruel men can be! I can't see how anyone can just go to someone's house, bind them in chains, and drag them away to their dungeon. It's unthinkable! How good is our God that even when such things happen, we know that He is with us and that we will someday, sooner or later, be delivered from that imprisonment. Rosa was willing to go to prison with her father, and that showed how much she loved him. To suffer with him, and even to die with him, was inspiring. But since Edelbert would not permit her to be taken captive as he was, and Kunerick would not have allowed that pleasure to Edelbert, Rosa obeyed her father and went to the collier's house.
<s>I am going without the book, but I do think that all of the above happened in the first 3 chapters</s>. Disregard that sentence. I must say I had tears in my eyes when Edelbert was telling Rosa all the things which she should do when he was gone. He had the same farewell wishes that her mother had on her deathbed, not many months before.
This book has inspired me to think more on what my parents say. They could be very soon taken away from me and I would be left with regrets at not having done as I was told. I will cherish the corrections I receive from my Momma and Daddy. They are both very dear to me.
Thank you, Eyebright, for picking such a wonderful book!
Love,
Rachel
Ps. I am working on getting my discussion for 4-6 done. :)
Here is a list of some of the vocabulary words from Chapter One of Rosa.
The definitions are below. Though these words were chosen from Chapter One, this will make an excellent list for any time throughout the book.
All definitions from the Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary online:
http://1828.mshaffer.com *unless otherwise noted.
*vales:
n.
A valley, often coursed by a stream; a dale.
[Middle English, from Old French val, from Latin valls; see wel-2 in Indo-European roots.]
dilapidated:
pp. Wasted; ruined; pulled down; suffered to go to ruin.
approbation:
n. [L. approbatio. See Proof and Prove.]
1. The act of approving; a liking; that state or disposition of the mind, in which we assent to the propriety of a thing, with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction; as, the laws of God require our approbation.
2. Attestation; support; that is, active approbation, or action in favor of what is approved.
3. The commendation of a book licensed or permitted to be published by authority, as was formerly the case in England.
piety:
n. [L. pietas, from pius, or its root, probably a contracted word.]
1. Piety in principle, is a compound of veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being and love of his character, or veneration accompanied with love; and piety in practice, is
the exercise of these affections in obedience to his will and devotion to his service.
Piety is the only proper and adequate relief of decaying man.
2. Reverence of parents or friends, accompanied with affection and devotion to their honor and happiness.
virtues:
n. vur'tu. [L. virtus, from vireo, or its root. See Worth.] The radical sense is strength, from straining, stretching, extending. This is the primary sense of L. vir, a man.]
1. Strength; that substance or quality of physical bodies, by which they act and produce effects on other bodies. In this literal and proper sense, we speak of the virtue or virtues of plants in medicine, and the virtues of drugs. In decoctions, the virtues of plants are extracted. By long standing in the open air, the virtues are lost.
2. Bravery valor. This was the predominant signification of virtus among the Romans.
Trust to thy single virtue.
[This sense is nearly or quite obsolete.]
3. Moral goodness; the practice of moral duties and the abstaining from vice, or a conformity of life and conversation to the moral law. In this sense, virtue may be, and in many instances must be, distinguished from religion. The practice of moral duties merely from motives of convenience, or from compulsion, or from regard to reputation, is virtue, as distinct from religion. The practice of moral duties from sincere love to God and his laws, is virtue and religion. In this sense it is true,
That virtue only makes our bliss below.
Virtue is nothing but voluntary obedience to truth.
4. A particular moral excellence; as the virtue of temperance, of chastity, of charity.
Remember all his virtues.
5. Acting power; something efficacious.
Jesus, knowing that virtue had gone out of him, turned - Mark 3.
6. Secret agency; efficacy without visible or material action.
She moves the body which she doth possess,
Yet no part toucheth, but by virtue's touch.
7. Excellence; or that which constitutes value and merit.
- Terence, who thought the sole grace and virtue of their fable, the sticking in of sentences.
He used to travel through Greece by virtue of this fable, which procured him reception in all the towns.
10. Legal efficacy or power; authority. A man administers the laws by virtue of a commission.
In virtue, in consequence; by the efficacy or authority.
This they shall attain, partly in virtue of the promise of God, and partly in virtue of piety.
*campaigns n. 1. A series of military operations undertaken to achieve a large-scale objective during a war: Grant's Vicksburg campaign secured the entire Mississippi for the Union.
2. An operation or series of operations energetically pursued to accomplish a purpose: an advertising campaign for a new product; a candidate's political campaign.
intr.v. cam·paigned, cam·paign·ing, cam·paigns
To engage in an operation planned to achieve a certain goal: campaigned through the jungles of Vietnam; campaigned for human rights.
[French campagne, from Italian campagna, field, military operation, from Late Latin campnia, open country, battlefield, from Latin campus, field.]
ardent: a.
1. Hot; burning; that causes sensation of burning; as, ardent spirits, that is distilled spirits; an ardent fever.
2. Having the appearance of quality of fire; fierce; as ardent eyes.
3. Warm, applied to the passions and affections; passionate; affectionate; much engaged; zealous; as, ardent love or vows; ardent zeal.
benevolence:
n. [L. benevolentia, of bene, well and volo, to will or wish. See Will.]
1. The disposition to do good; good will; kindness; charitableness; the love,of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness.
The benevolence of God is one of his moral attributes; that attribute which delights in the happiness of intelligent beings. "God is love." 1 John 4.
2. An act of kindness; good done; charity given.
3. A species of contribution or tax illegally exacted by arbitrary kings of England.
incomprehensible:
a.
1. That cannot be comprehended or understood; That is beyond the reach of human intellect; inconceivable. The nature of spiritual being is incomprehensible to us, or by us.
2. Not to be contained. [Little used.]
thatched: pp. Covered with straw or thatch.
imitation: n. [L. imitatio; imitor, to imitate.]
1. The act of following in manner, or of copying in form; the act of making the similitude of any thing, or of attempting a resemblance. By the imitation of bad men or of evil examples, we are apt to contract vicious habits. In the imitation of natural forms and colors,we are often unsuccessful. Imitation in music, says Rousseau, is a reiteration of the same air, or of one which is similar, in several parts where it is repeated by one after the other, either in unison, or at the distance of a fourth, a fifth, a third, or any interval whatever. Imitation in oratory, is an endeavor to resemble a speaker or writer in the qualities which we propose to ourselves as patterns.
2. That which is made or produced as a copy; likeness; resemblance. We say, a thing is a true imitation of nature.
3. A method of translating, in which modern examples and illustrations are used for ancient, or domestic for foreign, or in which the translator not only varies the words and sense,but forsakes them as he sees occasion.
provision: n. s as z. [L. provisio, provideo. See Provide.]
1. The act of providing or making previous preparation.
2. Things provided; preparation; measures taken beforehand, either for security, defense or attack, or for the supply of wants. We make provision to defend ourselves form enemies; we make provision for war; we make provision for a voyage or for erecting a building; we make provision for the support of the poor. Government makes provision for its friends.
3. Stores provided; stock; as provision of victuals; provision of materials.
4. Victuals; food; provender; all manner of eatables for man and beast; as provisions for the table or for the family; provisions for an army.
5. Previous stipulation; terms or agreement made, or measures taken for a future exigency.
In the law, no provision was made to abolish the barbarous customs of the Irish.
salvation: n. [L. salvo, to save.]
1. The act of saving; preservation from destruction, danger or great calamity.
2. Appropriately in theology, the redemption of man from the bondage of sin and liability to eternal death, and the conferring on him everlasting happiness. This is the great salvation.
Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. 2Cor. 7.
3. Deliverance from enemies; victory. Ex. 14.
4. Remission of sins, or saving graces. Luke 19.
5. The author of man's salvation. Ps. 27.
6. A term of praise or benediction. Rev. 19.
husbandman: n. A farmer; a cultivator or tiller of the ground; one who labors in tillage. In America, where men generally own the land on which they labor,the proprietor of a farm is also a laborer or husbandman; but the word includes the lessee and the owner.
1. The master of a family. [Not in use in America.]
Saviour:
n. savyur. One that saves or preserves; but properly applied only to Jesus Christ, the Redeemer, who has opened the way to everlasting salvation by his obedience and death, and who is therefore called the Savior, by way of distinction, the Savior of men, the Savior of the world. General Washington may be called the saver, but not the savior of his country.
widowed: pp.
1. Bereaved of a husband by death.
2. Deprived of some good; stripped.
Trees of their shriveld fruits are widowd.
destitute: a. [L. To set. Literally, set from or away.]
1. Not having or possessing; wanting; as destitute of virtue, or of peity; destitute of food and clothing. It differs from deprived, as it does not necessarily imply previous possession.
2. Needy; abject; comfortless; friendless.
He will regard the prayer of the destitute. Ps. 102.
n. One who is without friends or comfort.
v.t.
1. To forsake.
2. To deprive.
gratitude: n. [L. gratitudo, from gratus, pleasing. See Grace.]
An emotion of the heart, excited by a favor or benefit received; a sentiment of kindness or good will towards a benefactor; thankfulness. Gratitude is an agreeable emotion, consisting in or accompanied with good will to a benefactor,and a disposition to make a suitable return of benefits or services, or when no return can be made, with a desire to see the benefactor prosperous and happy. Gratitude is a virtue of the highest excellence, as it implies a feeling and generous heart, and a proper sense of duty.
The love of God is the sublimest gratitude.
cultivate: v.t. [L., to till, to dwell.]
1. To till; to prepare for crops; to manure, plow, dress, sow and reap; to labor on manage and improve in husbandry; as, to cultivate land; to cultivate a farm.
2. To improve by labor or study; to advance the growth of; to refine and improve by correction of faults, and enlargement of powers or good qualities; as, to cultivate talents; to cultivate a taste for poetry.
3. To study; to labor to improve or advance; as, to cultivate philosophy; to cultivate the mind.
4. To cherish; to foster; to labor to promote and increase; as, to cultivate the love of excellence; to cultivate gracious affections.
5. To improve; to meliorate, or to labor to make better; to correct; to civilize; as, to cultivate the wild savage.
6. To raise or produce by tillage; as, to cultivate corn or grass.
ornament: n. [L. ornamentum, from orno, to adorn. Varro informs us that this was primitively osnamentum; but this is improbable. See Adorn.]
1. That which embellishes; something which, added to another thing, renders it more beautiful to the eye.
The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, the bonnets and the ornaments of the legs - Is. 3.
2. In architecture, ornaments are sculpture or carved work.
3. Embellishment; decoration; additional beauty.
- The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price. 1Peter 3.
v.t. To adorn; to deck; to embellish.
imbibe:
v.t. [L. imbibo; in and bibo, to drink.]
1. To drink in; to absorb; as, a dry or porous body imbibes a fluid; a sponge imbibes moisture.
2. To receive or admit into the mind and retain; as, to imbibe principles; to imbibe errors. Imbibing in the mind always implies retention, at least for a time.
3. To imbue, as used by Newton; but he has not been followed.
excellent: a. Being of great virtue or worth; eminent or distinguished for what is amiable, valuable or laudable; as an excellent man or citizen; an excellent judge or magistrate.
1. Being of great value or use, applied to things; remarkable for good properties; as excellent timber; an excellent farm; an excellent horse; excellent fruit.
2. Distinguished for superior attainments; as an excellent artist.
3. Consummate; complete; in an ill sense.
Elizabeth was an excellent hypocrite.
I hope this is a help to you if you are sharing this great little story with your children!
By now you have surely received your copy of Rosa of Linden Castle.
This particular read contains 20 chapters in 156 pages. We are going to work at a mild pace, reading about 30 pages a week. That comes to approximately 3 chapters a week.
We will be posting our discussion on this blog each Wednesday. You are not obligated to post a discussion. If you like, you can read along with us and just comment on the post. We have, in times past, posted discussions in the comments. If you prefer to post your discussion on your blog and comment on the discussion here, that is fine. We would appreciate if you want to leave a link in the comments for anyone to read your discussion if you do post it on your blog. Post it whenever you can, and let us know on the discussion post for that week.
Even if you do not post a big discussion, please try to post something on your blog each week about the discussion, just to let your readers know about this fantastic little book. Of course this is not mandatory, I just think it will encourage others to join us for the discussion, and who better to join us than your readers?
[EDIT] Since we went on a two-week vacation, we have had to modify the schedule]
Here is the discussion/posting schedule for Rosa of Linden Castle:
Chapters 1-3: June 25th
Chapters 4-6: July 2nd
Chapters 7-10: July 9th
Chapters 11-13: July 16
Chapters 14-17: July 23
Chapters 18-20: July 30
We plan to select and announce our next read SOON to give you plenty of time to order it and plan ahead.
We do plan to start the discussion of our next read on August 20th, which will coincide with a new school year, if you wish to read it for your homeschool.
We are SO excited that you will be joining us for this read! We look forward to discussing chapters 1-3 with you.
Any questions? Email us or just leave it in the comments.
You are most welcome to join in the discussion. Feel free to jump in.
If you have a place to post your review of the book, please leave us a link. You do not have to post a review on this blog. A few words of discussion are just fine and most welcome.
:)
The book Rosa of Linden Castle is set in the southern borders of Swabia, a country famed for its blooming vales, its mighty mountain ranges, and its lofty glaciers. In days of old stood the Castle of Linden on towering cliffs of a rugged mountain.
The Players: Rosa: The main character of the story; a sweet and pious little girl at the beginning of the stroy, she matures through trials and hardships and following her parents' admonishments as the story is told.
Matilda: Rosa's Christian mother, who is her main teacher for her early years. Her kindness to the poor, piety and intelligence, gained the her esteem and regard of all around her.
Edelbert: Rosa's father, a noble and valiant knight underneath whose iron beat a warm and benevolent heart, who is always away from his family in service to the Duke.
Burkhard, the Collier: A faithful friend and servant to Edelbert and then to Rosa.
Kunerick: The villain of the story; a mortal enemy of Edelbert and Burkhart.
Agnes: Burkhard's, the Collier, pleasant and good-natured daughter.
The Duke of Swabia: The Duke in whose service Edelbert is a knight.
Sorry everyone about not announcing the winner of the book yet. Caleb decided we needed another ER visit on Wednesday, so we weren't able to get this on.
We are so excited to see so many people joining us for our next discussion! We can't wait to begin... but first things first. Without further adieu I give you the winner of Rosa of Linden Castle, who was chose by Isaac, and it is:
We haven't received our books yet, but we hope to start the discussion by next Wednesday. Let us know if you have received your books yet. We will hopefully have ours soon! The Daily Planet
Ahhh, you will have to give Isaac a big hug for me!!! I'm so happy I won!! Was wondering where I would come up with the money to order the book, now I don't have too!!
Okay, so is there anything I need to do now??
Thank you soooooo much, and I'm very excited to get started!!
Because we have had such a hard time choosing what book to read next from all the great Lamplighters, we asked one of our readers to help us. Eyebright gave us 3 titles she liked and since one of them was one we had picked out last time, we decided on that.
So our next read is: Rosa of Linden Castle
In this unique von Schmid classic, a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
Author:Christoph von Schmid Written in: 1845 Pages: 163
We are excited about this read and hope to have you join with us as we read and discuss Rosa of Linden Castle.
There is a Mr. Linky you can sign, so we know that you will be joining us! We want you to join so much that we are giving away a copy of Rosa of Linden Castle to one reader who signs the Mr. Linky. We will give you a week and then next Wednesday we will announce who the lucky reader is!
These books are such little treasures with such powerful and eye-opening messages, we don't want you to miss out!
So sign the linky and commit to read another great book with us, and your name will be put in the drawing to win a copy of our next read, Rosa of Linden Castle! We have also found that these books make wonderful family read-alouds. They are greatly enjoyed and understood by children of all ages! The Daily Planet
Yay! I can't wait to get started. I think part of the reason I like to read these books, is because of the way they look! They are so nostaligic looking.
Anyway,
Have a very bright, very cheerful day!
Eyebright
I don't always get a chance to comment....well, I really don't comment at all these days on the discussion - life is crazy - but I am reading the books along with you!
I've only just discovered this club, and I'm really pleased to find you!
I love the painting at the top of the page, by the way - La Leseuse (sp?) by Fragonard. I grew up with a print of that painting in our living room, and now I have a print of my own. I'm just building up a library to put it in!
Welcome to HSB Literary Club. Please join us in reading Rosa of Linden Castle by Christoph von Schmid. Written in 1845, this unique von Schmid classic tells of a daughter''s love for her imprisoned father ensures us that though it was meant for evil, God always intends it for good. Through difficult trials, Rosa learns what it means to truly love her enemies and to wait for the Lord's perfect timing.
To get started, click on the book icon and get yours ordered today!
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s; see wel-2 in Indo-European roots.]
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