Points for Discussion for An Old Fashion Girl    

by Jennifer Elizabeth Walton

     Discussion is a great opportunity to gain insights into classics and understanding of individuals. This is an enriching activity for your Princess Circle, especially as you strive to find and apply the principles in the classics you are studying. With large groups you may want to divide into smaller groups of about two to four mother and daughter pairs (4-8 people) for discussions.;

     Below you will find a list of ideas from An Old-Fashioned Girl that you can discussion as a Princess Circle:

 Old-fashioned Values- The whole book

    This book can teach us a lot about what is important and timeless by contrasting it with what is considered important and fashionable.

    As you read, discuss the old fashioned principles, values and refinement that you see. Write down things that you can improve on. Discuss the differences between Polly’s way of life, and Fanny’s, and how it impacted them and others.  

 What is Love?- Chapters 3, 5, 18,

       A wonderful discussion throughout this book is about love, what it is, and contrasting the “old-fashioned” and the “modern” way of looking at and defining it.

       Discuss love/ courtship/ marriage as Fanny see’s it in the beginning of the book: it’s a game, it doesn’t matter how young you are, flirtation, scandals, being misleading/false, it’s about money and position; and the way that Polly see’s and was taught about it: it is for adults- (18ish+), it is a serious thing, it is beautiful, sacred, and powerful; honesty, it is about truly loving and caring for each other. 

Integrity- Chapters 1

       To live high standards in a “modern” world can be very hard sometimes, as Polly learned. But there was one thing that stuck out to me that helped Polly have integrity, and that was her love for her mother. When Fanny was comparing Polly with herself, Polly didn’t let the comparison trouble her. She simply remembered: “My mother likes me to dress simply, and I don't mind.”  

       Discuss the power of a healthy relationship between mothers and daughters, and the importance and influence of that love. 

Respecting Our Elders-  Chapter 3

       Polly was taught to respect her elders, but Fanny’s family didn’t value their grandmother, and neglected her. It took Polly’s example of attention and sincere love to show them how wonderful their grandmother was and how to treat her. Parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents have a lot to teach and share with us and they love being valued and listened to. 

       Discuss the importance of respecting and loving our elders. Discuss how you can better do this to the elders in your life. 

A Purpose and Hard Work- Chapter 11,13

       Polly learns that having a purpose in life and working hard toward that purpose, and living by principles enriches your life and brings satisfaction.  

       Discuss the ambitions, goals and desires that you have in life, and how working toward and achieving them will enrich your life. 

Little Things- Chapter 4

    “She[Polly] loved to do the "little things" that others did not see, or were too busy to stop for; and while doing them, without a thought of thanks, she made sunshine for herself as well as others.” “…Little things of this sort are especially good work for little people; a kind little thought, an unselfish little act, a cheery little word, are so sweet and comfortable, that no one can fail to feel their beauty and love the giver, no matter how small they are. Mothers do a deal of this sort of thing, unseen, unthanked, but felt and remembered long afterward, and never lost, for this is the simple magic that binds hearts together, and keeps home happy. Polly had learned this secret.”

      At times when Polly was struggling she would try to serve or cheer up someone else and that always helped cheer her up too. 

      Discuss the little things that other have done for you and the little things that you can do for others. Next time you are having a bad day, find someone to cheer up/ serve.

© 2010  Jennifer Walton. All Rights Reserved.