Sissy

Sissy challenged the texts that we have read thus far about what it means to be a little boy or little girl in the nineteenth century. He occupies a unique place in society because he captivates traits of both genders. "He possessed a girl's taste and delicacy and skill… combined with a boy's physical strength and hardihood" (Kellogg 546). Because he is constantly helping others and demonstrating a wealth of compassion, one would expect him to be rich with friends. I found it very interesting that he "had no 'crony,' or intimate companion, especially outside of the school-room (Kellogg 546). It seems as though a multitude of people, young and old, would seek a friend like Sissy in this world, however he is portrayed as somewhat of a loner. I think that Kellogg was trying teach people to accept others for who they are, even if they are immensely different. She continually uses positive words throughout the text to describe him and convey him as a sweet and loving boy. Even when he cuts up his great-grandmother's dress, his own mother shows no sign of anger because she wants to "commend Sissy's kindness" (Kellogg 551).
Sissy continually breaks the mold of societal standards of what boys were to act like. His loving demeanor and will to please his mother almost mirrors that of Ellen Montgomery, while his passion for sewing and cooking is a foil to Tom Sawyer's rugged character. He is also the first boy that we have read about who longs for a friendship with a little girl. He takes Margie almost as a charity case but ends up loving this little girl and obsessing over finding her. This desire to help and transform a little girl also demonstrates characteristics of a typical girl during this time rather than a boy. Sissy's character allows readers a glimpse into the heart of a little boy who is viewed as abnormal during this time and helps people to love his personality rather than dismiss him as different.