I believe Frado/Wilson's personal power and salvation come about in a coming of age story. Frado is a frightened girl when she first arrives at the Bellmont's and school, but after "learning the ropes," she learns how to gain strength through her own means. Throughout the majority of the book, Frado accepts taking Mrs. Bellmont's beatings with the rawhide over trivial mistakes such as not bringing the firewood fast enough. Frado is indifferent to the behavior and believe it's just the way it will always be. Though she has James and some of the male men of the family on her side, it is not until she speaks up to Mrs. Bellmont that she gains personal power and salvation. Finally, one day after James' death, Frado had enough. Before Mrs. Bellmont had the opportunity to strike her she declared, "Stop! Strike me, and I'll never work a mite more for you" (58). Mrs. Bellmont drops her weapon and stops out of amazement-- Frado had learned to "ward off assaults." Another example of Frado finding power and salvation is at school. When walking in, Frado had the intention of turning back until her teacher guided her in. Though shy at first, Frado soon wins her peers over with her wit and humor. She is looked up to by others and earns respect through her mischevious acts.
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