Critics and Goblin Market

Dorothy Mermin follows the theory that the goblin men represent the temptations of sexual desire. This desire causes attraction but it is destructive, presumably due to the Victorian beliefs suggesting sexual desire was sinful and purity was essential for all young girls. The 'fruit' appears attractive and frightening to Laura implying her irresponsibility, it could also connote the sinister eroticism that was prominent in pre-Raphaelite art. Laura appears a 'fallen woman', she gave in to desire but Lizzie remained morally responsible and its now down to her to free Laura from the controlling, sinister eroticism of the goblin men. This shows the strong bond between sisters and the way sin doesnt impact sisterhood. Lizzie demonstrates the heroic sisterhood between them, when Laura is in trouble she sacrifices herself in order to help her. The goblins attack her but she has to persevere because her sister is in desperate need.




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