The poignant narrative of Michael Morpurgo’s “War Horse” is filled with moments that tug at the heartstrings, and one of the most significant is the illness that befalls Emilie. Understanding What Sickness Does Emilie Have In War Horse is crucial to grasping the depth of its emotional impact and the bonds that form within its story.
The Nature of Emilie’s Illness In War Horse
The story never explicitly names the specific ailment that afflicts Emilie. However, through the descriptions and the progression of her condition, it is strongly implied that she is suffering from a serious, life-threatening illness, likely something akin to a severe fever or a wasting disease of childhood. The symptoms described include:
- Weakness and lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Pale complexion
- Feverishness
The gravity of her condition is underscored by the fact that the family, particularly her mother, is deeply worried and that Joey, her beloved horse, is brought to her bedside in a desperate attempt to comfort her. This act of bringing Joey to her is a testament to the profound bond they share and the hope that familiar presence might offer solace, even in the face of such a dire situation. The emotional weight of Emilie’s sickness is a pivotal element in the early development of Albert’s character and his deep connection with Joey.
The illness serves as a catalyst for several key plot points:
- It highlights the precariousness of life, especially in rural settings during that era.
- It deepens the bond between Albert and Joey, as Albert is driven to train Joey to be useful and strong, partly to please his father and perhaps indirectly to aid in his mother’s recovery by making the farm more productive.
- It provides a reason for Albert’s father to sell Joey, as the family is struggling financially, and Albert’s mother’s illness may have exacerbated these struggles.
While the exact diagnosis remains intentionally ambiguous, allowing the focus to remain on the emotional and thematic elements of the story, the impact of Emilie’s sickness is undeniable. The reader is left with the understanding that it was a severe affliction that profoundly affected the family and set in motion the events that would lead to Joey’s departure and his subsequent journey through the horrors of World War I. The table below illustrates the progression of her condition and its effects:
| Stage | Observed Symptoms | Impact on Family |
|---|---|---|
| Initial | Fever, weakness | Worry, increased care |
| Advanced | Lethargy, loss of appetite, paleness | Despair, financial strain, emotional distress |
For a comprehensive understanding of the themes and character developments in “War Horse,” it is highly recommended to refer to the original literary work by Michael Morpurgo.