Marie and Entienne

[elizabuchanan]

After Marie and her beloved father flee Paris, they go to live with the extremely reclusive Entienne.

"For three days she does not meet her great-Uncle." (Doerr 134)

After the death of Madame Manec and the arrest of Marie's father, how does her relationship with Entienne change? Does Entienne step in to take the role of a father in Marie's life, or is her own father too precious to her? 

"'Marie-Laure," he says without hesitation. He squeezes her hand with both of his. "You are the best thing that has ever come into my life.'" (Doerr 431)

[sophielowy]

I believe that at the start Marie-Laure and her uncle had an unspoken bond. They both understood each other even though the relationship was not fully developed. As time past and things changed I believe that relationship did grow to develop into a stronger relationship that can be seen among relatives. When Marie's father left and didn't come back I believe that Entienne took on the personal role of protecting and taking care of Marie. I believe that the role that Entienne took on was similar to the common role of a father but different due to the history of the relationship. I fee that the two character had the father-daughter side of the relationship as well as the best friend side of the relationship. The two took care of each other and worried for the well being of each other. In the novel it says, "Hours wear out and fall away. Marie-Laure sets a full plate outside Etienne's door at night and collects an empty plate in the morning" (Doerr 320). Not only does Entienne take care of Marie as if she was his daughter the care giving goes both ways in the relationship. The two both grow to love each other in new ways as their friendship grows, and would do anything to make sure the other person was safe.