A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

by

Betty Smith

Miss Bernstone Character Analysis

The drawing teacher at Francie’s first school. The children like her nearly as much as Mr. Morton. Miss Bernstone sympathizes with and loves the poor children more than the privileged ones. The female teachers are jealous of her because she is attractive and more likely to be married. She is warm, radiant, and “richly feminine,” and speaks softly “in a clear singing voice.”
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Miss Bernstone Character Timeline in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

The timeline below shows where the character Miss Bernstone appears in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 21
Education and the American Dream Theme Icon
Gender, Sexuality, and Vulnerability Theme Icon
Miss Bernstone is as admired as Mr. Morton, though not as well-loved. She teaches drawing. The teachers... (full context)
Chapter 23
Education and the American Dream Theme Icon
Class and Snobbery Theme Icon
Mr. Morton and Miss Bernstone teach at Francie’s new school, too. During their lessons, Mr. Jenson often squeezes himself into... (full context)