Grandma Hutto is a significant and compassionate supporting character in Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings' classic novel, The Yearling, recognized for her deep friendship and selfless support of the Baxter family. She embodies a pillar of stability and kindness within the community, offering crucial assistance during times of hardship for the novel's protagonists.
Key Aspects of Grandma Hutto's Role:
- An Old Family Friend: Grandma Hutto is an established, long-time friend of the Baxter family. Her relationship with them goes back many years, highlighting a strong bond of trust and affection that plays a vital role in their lives.
- Town Resident: Unlike the Baxters, who live a secluded life in the Florida scrub, Grandma Hutto resides in the nearby town. This positioning allows her to serve as a connection to the wider community and a potential refuge from the harsh realities of wilderness living.
- A Source of Support and Refuge: Her most profound demonstration of friendship and generosity is shown when Penny Baxter, the family patriarch, went away to war. During his four-year absence, Grandma Hutto graciously took in Penny's wife, Ora, and their young son, Jody (who was only two years old at the time). This act provided them with a safe, stable home and much-needed comfort, underscoring her nurturing and reliable nature.
Grandma Hutto's character reinforces themes of community, resilience, and the invaluable role of human connection in the face of life's challenges. Her actions illustrate a profound sense of loyalty and a willingness to provide a sanctuary for those in need.
