Paths to Independence: The Resilience of Mally Trenglos and Eveline Hill

Introduction

In this wide reading assignment, we will delve into the critical turning points faced by two young women, Mally Trenglos from Anthony Trollope's 'Malachi's Cove' (1867) and Eveline Hill from James Joyce's 'Eveline' (1904). Both characters grapple with pivotal decisions in their respective stories. This analysis will also explore the distinct settings of these narratives and highlight the differences between them, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by Mally and Eveline.

Mally Trenglos and 'Malachi's Cove'

'Malachi's Cove' unfolds against the backdrop of Cornwall's rugged North coast.

The setting is characterized by steep, imposing cliffs adorned with quaint cottages perched precariously on the towering precipices. The story is primarily situated between Tinagel and Bossinney, both real locations, adding an element of authenticity to the narrative. The Trenglos shack, where Mally resides with her grandfather 'Old Glos' (Malachi), clings to the edge of a cliff, accessible via a treacherous path.

The path, built by Malachi, remains perilous, posing a risk to anyone attempting the descent.

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While Mally navigates it with ease, others, like her neighbor Barty, risk life and limb to reach the cove. Inaccessibility is further compounded by cliffs to the north and south, making alternative routes nearly impassable. A menacing feature known as Poulnadioul, translated as the "Hole of Evil," adds an eerie dimension to the setting. It is described as a churning cauldron of seaweed-covered water, symbolizing both danger and, paradoxically, the site of an unexpected romance.

The cove's vast expanse shrinks during high tide, leaving little room for maneuverability.

Northwest winds bring an abundance of seaweed, which Mally collects and sells as her livelihood. The narrative occasionally portrays the cove as a treacherous place, particularly during storms when the violent waves crash against the cliffs, evoking a sense of danger and isolation.

Above the Trenglos shack reside the Gunliffes, a farming family with fifty acres of land. Mally and 'Old Glos' have always maintained a distant and unsociable relationship with the Gunliffes, preferring their solitude over social interactions. Malachi's shack, constructed of wood, is juxtaposed with the brick-and-mortar comfort of the Gunliffes' farmhouse. The contrast in living conditions mirrors the characters' contrasting lifestyles.

Mally's personality mirrors the harsh and unyielding landscape. Her long, wild hair, often tied with a shoelace, reflects her untamed spirit. Her attire, consisting of a thick red serge petticoat and a brown serge jacket, prioritizes practicality over fashion. Mally's clothes are suited for the demanding conditions of her work, and she sees no reason to dress elegantly or attend church in her Sunday best. Her temper, as demonstrated when she threatens Barty's horse for seaweed theft, mirrors her fiery determination and independence.

Mally's unwavering dedication to her grandfather is evident throughout the story. When Malachi becomes too frail to continue collecting seaweed, Mally assumes the responsibility, tirelessly working day and night without succumbing to fatigue. Her independence is a defining trait, and she rejects offers of assistance, content in her own company. Mally's candidness, while a reflection of her independence, often lands her in trouble due to her disregard for potential consequences.

Despite her fiery disposition, Mally exhibits moments of compassion. When Barty gets into a life-threatening situation in the cove, Mally rushes to his aid, displaying an unexpected depth of empathy. Her decision to save him, despite previous threats, showcases the complexity of her character.

Eveline Hill and 'Eveline'

Contrasting with the wild and rugged Cornwall setting of 'Malachi's Cove,' 'Eveline' by James Joyce unfolds in Dublin. Eveline Hill's story takes place in a small brick house down an avenue. Near her home lies a newly constructed estate of modern houses, a stark contrast to the modesty of her own dwelling. The narrative evokes memories of her past, recalling carefree days when her father playfully chased her and her brothers with a blackthorn stick. However, those days are now distant memories, tarnished by the changes in her family dynamic.

Eveline's father, once a source of fond memories, has become a source of fear due to his volatile temper and the violence he inflicts upon the family. Eveline's father's violent tendencies have caused her to develop palpitations, further highlighting the oppressive atmosphere in her home.

One notable aspect of Eveline's life is her role as a provider for her family. She is expected to contribute her weekly wages of seven shillings to support the household. Despite her meager earnings, her father is reluctant to part with his own money, insisting that Eveline is incapable of managing finances responsibly.

Her father's disapproval extends to her relationship with Frank, a sailor. He stereotypes sailors as untrustworthy, forbidding Eveline from seeing him. However, Eveline views Frank as her ticket to freedom from her oppressive home life. Her motivation to marry him is not rooted in love but rather in the hope of escaping her current situation and finding respect and independence.

Eveline's yearning for independence is a recurring theme in her internal struggles. She seeks to break free from the confines of her family and escape the drudgery that defined her mother's life. Her desire to lead her own life and avoid becoming trapped drives her to consider marrying Frank, even though she harbors doubts and uncertainties.

Eveline's inner turmoil stems from her difficulty in leaving behind the familiar surroundings of her home. Her attachment to the known, despite its suffocating nature, competes with the allure of the unknown. Her lack of self-confidence further complicates her decision-making process, causing her to vacillate between the safety of the familiar and the allure of a new life.

Ultimately, Eveline's choice to marry Frank represents an escape from her oppressive past, but it also symbolizes the difficulty of breaking free from ingrained patterns and familial expectations. Her internal struggle between the known and the unknown is a poignant exploration of the human condition and the complexities of making life-altering decisions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the stories of Mally Trenglos in 'Malachi's Cove' and Eveline Hill in 'Eveline' revolve around pivotal decisions that shape their lives. These two young women face unique challenges in distinct settings, with Mally navigating the rugged cliffs of Cornwall and Eveline grappling with familial oppression in Dublin.

Mally embodies resilience and independence, reflecting the harshness of her environment. Her dedication to her grandfather and her fearless nature make her a compelling character. In contrast, Eveline's struggles stem from an oppressive family dynamic and her desire for autonomy. Her decision to marry Frank represents her quest for independence, even as she grapples with the fear of the unknown.