How does the use of natural imagery become a vital part of

Agnes Magnsdttirs story?

Iceland in the 1800s was a hostile yet equally striking land where
society was greatly shaped by the brutal conditions around them. In
Hannah Kents novel Burial Rites, she pays homage to such an
eerily beautiful landscape, whilst respecting the danger that it
presents through the story of condemned woman Agnes
Magnsdttir. This unforgiving landscape acts as a metaphorical
backdrop to all that befalls Agnes, conveyed through Agnes
poignant lyricism. Furthermore, Agnes life is often influenced by the
superstition associated with the constantly changing weather,
adding an element of suspense to her story. Natural imagery is also
utilised as a plot device, demonstrating the characters strength in
times of such hostility.
(body paragraph 3)
Kent takes the harshness of the Icelandic weather and utilises it as a
plot device, in turn exemplifying the strength of the characters
formed through their necessary stoicism in the face of so much
hostility. The exterior aspects of Iceland is treacherous, consisting
of freezing ice, snow and gale force winds. However inside the
homes of Iceland is just as dangerous, through the damp, mould and
foul atmosphere that permeates through all lower class homes.
Margrt especially is affected by this, having formed a cough
through the lack of ventilation and mould that has grown in her
crumbling home. However it is through her suffering and sickness
that she is able to bond with Agnes. She becomes more grateful for
Agnes presence, acknowledging Agnes high level of practicality,
which has significantly eased her cough. Margrt also connects with
Agnes through their resemblance, not only through their practicality
and level-headedness, but also due to the fact that they are both
two-dying women, a grim reality that there is nothing more for
them to do than accept. Furthermore, Ttis near death sickness that
develops is used to demonstrate the extent of his devotion to
Agnes. Not only does his absence from Korns allow Agnes to open
up to Margrt, but it also makes evident the importance of the two
for each other. Amidst his pain and suffering, he is determined to
see Agnes and be the one to support her, leading to her final days.
His decision to take the perilous journey to Korns accentuates his
will-power and selfless nature, thus demonstrating his strength as a
result of the harsh weather of Iceland. Kent utilises the element of
the dangerous conditions in Iceland as a display of the characters
strength that forms as a result.