Karen Cushman’s The Midwife’s Apprentice tells the compelling story of a young, nameless orphan girl in medieval England who transforms her life from destitution and neglect to self-discovery and purpose. Initially known only as “Brat,” she navigates a harsh world until fate leads her to Jane Sharp, the village midwife. While Brat, who later renames herself Alyce, gains invaluable knowledge about midwifery from the stern and often cruel Jane, her true personal growth blossoms in a different setting – the inn. It is at the inn, particularly through her interactions with Will, a traveling scholar, that Alyce learns crucial life lessons that extend far beyond the practicalities of her apprenticeship.
Alyce’s journey to the inn is born out of shame and perceived failure. After a difficult birth where she feels helpless, Alyce abandons midwifery and runs away, seeking anonymity and a fresh start. She finds work as a kitchen servant at a bustling inn, a stark contrast to the isolated and often grim world of Jane’s cottage. This change of scenery is the first step in her transformative experience.
Will, the traveling scholar, enters Alyce’s life at the inn, representing a world of learning and intellectual curiosity previously unknown to her. He is depicted as kind and patient, a stark contrast to the harsh figures Alyce has encountered. Will’s presence at the inn is not merely as a guest; he becomes a mentor figure for Alyce, unknowingly at first, offering her opportunities for growth she never imagined.
One of the most significant things Alyce learns from Will is the power of literacy. In a time where reading and writing were privileges largely reserved for the clergy and nobility, Will introduces Alyce to the alphabet and the magic of words. He doesn’t just teach her to read; he opens up a new world of knowledge, stories, and self-expression. This newfound ability is incredibly empowering for Alyce, who has always been considered “Brat,” “Beetle,” and generally unintelligent. Learning to read is not just a skill; it’s a validation of her intelligence and potential, directly combating the negative labels she has internalized.
Beyond literacy, Will imparts practical life skills and perspectives that are crucial for Alyce’s development. He encourages her curiosity and helps her understand the world beyond her immediate experiences. While Jane’s lessons were focused on the practicalities of midwifery, often delivered with cruelty and negativity, Will’s teachings are gentle and encouraging. He fosters a sense of self-worth in Alyce that was systematically eroded by Jane’s abuse.
The inn itself serves as a microcosm of society, exposing Alyce to diverse people and situations. She observes interactions, learns about different trades, and witnesses a range of human emotions. This broader social exposure, coupled with Will’s intellectual and emotional support, helps Alyce develop empathy and a more nuanced understanding of the world. She sees kindness, generosity, and intellectual pursuit, qualities largely absent in her apprenticeship with Jane.
Perhaps the most profound lesson Alyce learns from Will, and at the inn in general, is the importance of kindness and compassion. Jane’s midwifery was effective but devoid of empathy. At the inn, Alyce witnesses and experiences kindness from Will and the innkeeper. This contrast highlights the importance of a caring approach, a quality that will later define her as a midwife, differentiating her from Jane.
The turning point in Alyce’s inn experience, and arguably the culmination of what she learns from Will and the environment, is the unexpected birth at the inn. Initially hesitant and fearful of repeating her perceived failure, Alyce draws upon her latent midwifery knowledge and the newfound confidence nurtured at the inn. She successfully delivers the baby, realizing her true calling and overcoming her fear of inadequacy. This success is not just about midwifery skills; it’s about her personal growth, her belief in herself, and the resilience she has developed.
In conclusion, while Jane Sharp provides Alyce with the foundational knowledge of midwifery in The Midwife’s Apprentice, it is at the inn, through the gentle guidance of Will and the diverse experiences, that Alyce truly learns about herself and the world. “What Does Alyce Learn From Will At The Inn?” is not just about academic or practical skills; it is about self-discovery, the power of literacy, the importance of kindness, and the realization of her own potential. These lessons are instrumental in her journey back to midwifery, transforming her from a frightened orphan into a capable and compassionate young woman ready to embrace her destiny.
