Caddie Woodlawn | Themes

Caddie Woodlawn Themes

The American Spirit

While Caddie Woodlawn focuses on the coming of age of a young girl, she grows up in a family that embodies the pioneering spirit that set the United States apart from its English origins. John Woodlawn, Caddie's father, is the ideal example of an Englishman transformed and remade in a country where men are free to be who they want and to earn their own living.

John Woodlawn's history provides a stark contrast to his pioneering ways. He reveals that he is from English aristocracy, but because his father chooses to break social ranks and marry a seamstress, he is disinherited. John's father dies young, and John and his mother live as transients, earning pennies however they can. John remembers looking at his family's fine estate through its iron gates, knowing that there is northing he can do to regain it. Ironically, John is offered the estate at the end...
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