Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil Summary, Characters and Themes
Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab is a compelling exploration of two women navigating complex and often confining societal roles across different periods of time. The story contrasts the life of María, a young woman in 1521 Spain, who is caught between her familial and societal expectations, with that of Alice, a modern-day woman in Boston, struggling to define her identity amidst self-doubt.
Both women experience transformative encounters with powerful figures—María with a mysterious widow and Alice with a captivating girl—leading them on journeys of self-discovery, autonomy, and the challenging dynamics of desire and control. Through these characters, the novel delves deeply into themes of personal freedom, inner conflict, and the pursuit of independence.
Summary
The narrative of Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil unfolds through two parallel stories, one set in the early 16th century and the other in the modern-day, each focused on the internal struggles of two young women.
In the first part, we meet María, a girl with striking red hair, living in the small town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada in Spain in 1521. María’s vibrant hair, a source of pride for her, also brings shame to her mother, who views it as a sign of bad luck.
This relationship with her mother is fraught, as María seeks autonomy while being constantly reminded of her familial and societal obligations. Her life is governed by rigid gender roles, where her primary role is to marry, bear children, and serve her family.
María, however, yearns for freedom and independence. This tension between her desire for agency and the restrictive expectations of her family sets the stage for her journey.
One day, a widow arrives in town, dressed in mysterious mourning attire. This widow, who is an outsider in the small town, captivates María with her aura of mystery and power.
When the widow speaks to her, offering cryptic advice about “magic” and “medicine,” María feels a stir of something within herself—an awakening to the possibility of a life beyond the constraints placed on her. The widow, a healer who gathers herbs for medicinal tonics, presents a stark contrast to the narrow life María is expected to lead.
This interaction becomes a pivotal moment for María, as it ignites a spark of curiosity and rebellion within her.
The widow becomes a symbol of freedom for María, and over time, she finds herself visiting the widow’s apothecary, learning about the healing arts and gaining knowledge that represents a form of personal power. María begins to see the widow as an embodiment of autonomy and self-sufficiency, which sharply contrasts with her own life.
While her marriage to Andrés is cold and devoid of emotional connection, María’s relationship with the widow grows stronger, and she becomes increasingly drawn to the widow’s confident and independent persona. The widow, through her quiet rebellion against the strictures of society, offers María a glimpse of a life where she can assert her own identity, separate from the expectations of her family and society.
In the second part of the story, the focus shifts to Alice, a young woman in 2019, living in Boston. Alice is struggling with feelings of displacement and self-doubt, as she begins her new life at university.
Surrounded by people who seem to fit in effortlessly, Alice feels isolated and disconnected. At a party, she tries to embrace a new persona, “New Alice,” who is confident and carefree, but her insecurities prevent her from fully stepping into this role.
Her attempt at self-reinvention falters when she meets Lottie, a girl whose bold presence challenges Alice’s carefully constructed identity.
Lottie, with her confidence and assertiveness, becomes a figure of intrigue for Alice. The chemistry between them is immediate, and for the first time, Alice feels seen and wanted.
However, as the night progresses, Alice’s brief transformation into a more confident version of herself is disrupted. The complexities of attraction, vulnerability, and self-doubt begin to surface, leaving Alice in a state of emotional and physical vulnerability.
The encounter with Lottie becomes a moment of self-discovery, but also a reminder of the uncertainty and confusion that still linger within Alice.
Alice’s journey is a process of self-realization and confrontation with the expectations placed on her by society and her own internal struggles. Like María, Alice is grappling with issues of identity and autonomy, seeking to reconcile her desires with the roles others expect her to play.
The encounter with Lottie provides Alice with a brief escape from her insecurities, but it also challenges her to confront the complexities of her identity and the limitations she feels.
The two narratives of María and Alice, though set in different times, share common themes of personal transformation, societal expectations, and the search for autonomy. María’s journey is one of quiet rebellion, as she learns to assert control over her life and body, rejecting the passive role her society expects of her.
Alice, on the other hand, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, trying to understand who she is in a world that often seems alien to her. Both women are influenced by the figures they encounter—whether it’s the mysterious widow for María or the bold Lottie for Alice—and these interactions force them to confront their insecurities and desires, pushing them toward greater self-awareness.
The stories explore the tension between societal expectations and personal freedom, illustrating how both women struggle to navigate the complex dynamics of power, identity, and autonomy. For María, the widow’s guidance offers a rare opportunity to break free from the constraints of her marriage and family, while for Alice, Lottie’s presence provides a glimpse of what it means to live authentically.
In both cases, these encounters challenge the women to reconsider their roles in the world and their potential for self-empowerment.
As the novel concludes, both María and Alice are left to confront the paths they must take. María must decide whether she will continue to live within the boundaries set by her family and society, or if she will embrace the autonomy she has glimpsed through her relationship with the widow.
Alice, similarly, must reconcile her desires with the identity she is trying to forge, and the choices she makes will ultimately determine her future.
Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil is a deeply introspective exploration of identity, autonomy, and the desire for freedom in a world that seeks to confine women to predefined roles. Through the journeys of María and Alice, the novel examines the complexity of self-discovery and the power dynamics that shape their lives, offering a profound meditation on the human need for personal agency and the courage to defy societal expectations.
Characters
María
María is a young woman caught in the rigid confines of her time and society, struggling with the oppressive expectations placed upon her by her family and husband. Her character is defined by an inner tension between her natural rebellious spirit and the demands of her role as a wife in 16th-century Spain.
María’s red hair, which is both a source of pride and shame, symbolizes her individuality and independence, traits that her mother views as a curse rather than a gift. Despite her mother’s attempts to suppress her, María remains steadfast in her desire for freedom, even though she is forced to suppress these impulses in the face of societal and familial expectations.
Her marriage to Andrés is a significant source of conflict, as it places her in an emotionally barren environment, where her autonomy is further stripped away. The dynamics within her household, especially her relationship with her husband and in-laws, reveal how María is treated more like a possession than a partner.
However, her encounters with the widow, Sabine, ignite a spark of self-realization in her, leading her toward a deeper understanding of her own desires and agency. Through her lessons with Sabine, María discovers the power of knowledge and the ability to challenge the limits imposed on her.
This relationship, built on both intellectual and emotional awakening, offers María the rare chance to reclaim some semblance of control over her life, symbolized by her small acts of rebellion, such as planting cherry pits in the olive grove. María’s journey is one of transformation, as she moves toward a path of greater autonomy and self-definition.
Alice
Alice’s story is one of self-discovery, identity crises, and the search for meaning in a world that feels increasingly alien to her. As a young woman in 2019, Alice grapples with profound insecurities about who she is and where she fits in.
At university in Boston, she finds herself overwhelmed by the expectations of social conformity, and her struggles with self-doubt are intensified by her insecurities about how others perceive her. Her internal conflict is particularly evident in her interactions at a party, where she momentarily tries to reinvent herself as a bolder, more confident person—”New Alice”—but is quickly confronted by the complexities of attraction and vulnerability.
The brief connection with Lottie, a mysterious and confident figure, allows Alice to experience a fleeting sense of being seen and wanted, but it also exposes the fragility of her transformation. Lottie’s presence both disrupts Alice’s sense of control and challenges her perceptions of herself.
Alice’s journey is marked by her attempt to navigate between the pressure to conform to societal norms and the pull toward authenticity and self-empowerment. As her relationship with Lottie deepens, Alice is faced with the complexity of desire, vulnerability, and self-realization.
Her transformation, however, is not entirely smooth; she struggles with the aftermath of her encounter with Lottie, which leaves her emotionally and physically vulnerable. Ultimately, Alice’s journey involves confronting her own uncertainties and embracing her true self in the face of overwhelming inner turmoil and external expectations.
Sabine
Sabine, a widow living in London in the early 19th century, is a woman caught between the grief of her past and the power she seeks to wield in the present. Her story is one of mourning, deception, and self-empowerment.
At the start of her narrative, Sabine is draped in sorrow, as she navigates the streets of London feeling disconnected from the world around her. Her decision to purchase a honey-colored gown symbolizes her desire to shed her mourning attire and step into a new phase of life, one in which she can assert control over her circumstances.
Sabine’s involvement in high society, particularly her interactions with Lady Pollard and her circle, reveals her ability to manipulate appearances and adapt to her surroundings. Despite her fabricated backstory, Sabine is a woman of mystery and depth, drawn to the darker and more dangerous aspects of life.
As the “Season” progresses, Sabine becomes increasingly involved in the pursuit of those who intrigue her, shifting from choosing easy prey to seeking out more challenging individuals. Her encounter with Amelia, a mysterious girl, marks a turning point in her story, as Sabine’s life becomes intertwined with that of someone who may be both a threat and a potential ally.
Sabine’s journey is one of self-discovery and transformation, as she steps into a world that allows her to exercise both social power and darker urges. She is a complex figure who walks a fine line between control and chaos, using her position in society to hide her true intentions.
Lottie
Lottie’s character is shrouded in mystery, serving as both a catalyst for Alice’s transformation and a reflection of the darker forces at play in the narrative. Introduced as a figure of confidence and allure, Lottie draws Alice in with her bold presence and the sense of liberation she exudes.
In contrast to Alice’s insecurities, Lottie seems to embody everything Alice aspires to be—fearless, confident, and unapologetic. Their connection is immediate and intense, and it is through Lottie that Alice experiences a brief yet significant shift in her own identity.
However, Lottie’s role in Alice’s life is not without complications. As the story unfolds, Lottie’s motivations and true nature begin to unravel, leaving Alice to confront the complex dynamics of power, desire, and manipulation.
Lottie’s influence on Alice is both intoxicating and dangerous, leading Alice into a world where the lines between survival and surrender blur. Lottie’s character represents the allure of freedom and self-assertion, but also the risks that come with embracing a darker, more uncharted path.
Through their interactions, Lottie forces Alice to reckon with her own identity and the choices she must make as she navigates the challenges of her transformation.
Catty
Catty’s character is defined by her chaotic nature and the tension she creates in her relationship with Alice. As Alice’s sister, Catty serves as a catalyst for much of Alice’s emotional turmoil and self-discovery.
Initially, Catty’s behavior seems erratic and destructive, as she lashes out at their family, particularly with her violent destruction of a cherished family portrait. This act symbolizes the rupture between the two sisters, as Catty’s need for escape and freedom contrasts sharply with Alice’s more responsible and conscientious personality.
When Catty disappears, Alice is left in a state of emotional uncertainty, unsure whether her sister is in danger or simply hiding. This unresolved tension escalates as Alice’s obsession with Catty’s whereabouts and her increasingly anxious state affect her ability to function normally.
Catty’s eventual death in a hit-and-run accident marks a turning point in Alice’s life, leaving her with an overwhelming sense of loss and guilt. Catty’s absence becomes a symbol of the emotional void Alice must navigate, as she is forced to reckon with the complex emotions surrounding her sister’s life and death.
Through Catty’s story, Alice is confronted with the harsh realities of loss, guilt, and the complexity of familial bonds, all of which propel her toward a deeper understanding of herself and her place in the world.
Themes
Self-Discovery and Transformation
The theme of self-discovery is central to the narrative, particularly as both María and Alice navigate the challenges of their respective lives. María’s journey of self-awareness begins in the small Spanish town where she struggles against the rigid societal expectations placed on her as a woman.
Her physical appearance, particularly her red hair, becomes a symbol of her internal conflict—a visible mark of both her rebellion and the constraints imposed on her by her family and society. When María encounters the mysterious widow, Sabine, she is introduced to a world of autonomy, where knowledge and self-reliance are empowering tools.
The widow offers María not only a tonic for her physical discomfort but a deeper sense of agency, allowing her to envision a life outside the confines of her marriage. Over time, this interaction with Sabine becomes a crucial turning point for María.
It is in these moments of learning from the widow that María begins to understand her power and potential beyond the expectations that others have for her.
Similarly, Alice’s story is marked by a search for self-identity as she struggles with insecurity and the overwhelming pressure of fitting into a new environment at university. At the outset, she feels disconnected from the people around her, haunted by doubts about her worth and place in the world.
Her brief transformation at the party, where she temporarily embraces a new, confident persona, reflects her desire to break free from these limitations. Yet, her encounter with Lottie challenges her perception of what it means to be truly liberated.
The complexities of their interaction bring Alice closer to understanding that self-identity is not just about fitting into an idealized version of herself, but about embracing vulnerability and reconciling the parts of her that feel fractured. Both María and Alice, despite living in different times and settings, undergo a journey of transformation, learning to navigate the tensions between societal expectations and personal desires, which ultimately leads them toward greater self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their own identities.
Power Dynamics and Control
The exploration of power dynamics is integral to both stories, particularly in how it shapes the relationships between the central characters. In María’s case, her marriage to Andrés is emblematic of the traditional power structures that dominate her life.
Her husband’s indifference to her emotional and physical needs, combined with his expectations of her as merely a vessel for producing an heir, positions María in a subjugated role. The vast Olivares estate, with its grandiosity, symbolizes Andrés’s control over not just the land but also over María, who is relegated to a passive role within her own home.
Her resistance to this control, though subtle at first, becomes more apparent as she seeks solace in her moments of autonomy, whether through her bond with Ysabel or her secret visits to Sabine’s apothecary. The tonic offered by Sabine is not just a physical remedy but a metaphor for María’s quiet rebellion—an attempt to reclaim control over her body and her fate, which is otherwise dictated by her husband’s desires.
For Alice, the power dynamics take a different form. In the social scene at university, she is surrounded by confident, seemingly carefree individuals, which intensifies her feelings of inadequacy.
She struggles to navigate a world where she feels out of place and unnoticed, caught between the desire to fit in and the fear of being rejected. Her interaction with Lottie represents a shift in this dynamic.
Lottie, who embodies confidence and boldness, disrupts Alice’s preconceived notions about power, revealing the complexities of attraction, vulnerability, and agency. Lottie offers Alice a glimpse of freedom, but also a sense of danger, as their connection becomes a power struggle in itself.
Alice’s vulnerability, combined with Lottie’s enigmatic presence, challenges Alice to confront the internal battles she faces between submission and self-assertion. In both stories, the theme of power dynamics illustrates how characters must navigate relationships that seek to control them, whether through societal expectations, family pressures, or personal desires.
Autonomy and Rebellion
Autonomy and rebellion are recurrent themes that underpin the personal journeys of both María and Alice. María’s struggle for autonomy is framed within the traditional expectations of womanhood in 16th-century Spain, where women were expected to serve the needs of their husbands and families.
The arrival of Sabine, the widow who runs an apothecary and teaches María the art of making tinctures and potions, symbolizes a path to personal autonomy. Through Sabine’s teachings, María learns that knowledge is power, and for the first time, she is empowered to make decisions that are her own.
Her secret moments of rebellion, such as planting cherry pits in the olive grove, represent her desire for independence and her attempt to carve out a space for herself in a world that seeks to control her. Her growing attraction to Sabine further complicates her relationship with her marriage, highlighting the deep tensions between her desires and the expectations placed on her.
Alice’s pursuit of autonomy, while rooted in the pressures of university life, is similarly framed by her internal need to break free from the constraints of her former self. Her attempt to reinvent herself as “New Alice” at the party symbolizes a fleeting but significant step toward self-liberation.
However, this transformation is not without complications. Her encounter with Lottie introduces Alice to the complexities of vulnerability and desire, forcing her to confront the parts of herself that she had previously repressed.
In this moment, Alice realizes that autonomy is not simply about external transformation but about accepting one’s own complexities and contradictions. The rebellion in Alice’s journey is not about rejecting the world around her entirely but about challenging the expectations and limitations she has placed on herself.
Both characters, in their respective worlds, experience the quiet but powerful act of rebellion as they seek to reclaim control over their lives, desires, and identities.
Complex Relationships and Emotional Struggles
At the heart of both stories are the intricate and emotionally charged relationships that shape María and Alice’s experiences. María’s strained relationship with her husband, Andrés, is a central conflict that defines much of her emotional struggle.
Her marriage, marked by emotional neglect and physical discomfort, leaves María isolated and yearning for a deeper connection. While she finds solace in her growing bond with Sabine, the emotional weight of her marriage remains a persistent burden.
The relationship between María and her in-laws further exacerbates her sense of being reduced to an object, dismissing her presence and belittling her role. This sense of alienation highlights the emotional toll of being trapped in a marriage that offers little emotional fulfillment.
Despite this, María’s emotional resilience is evident as she navigates these complex relationships, finding small but meaningful moments of self-discovery.
Alice’s relationships, particularly with her sister Catty and with Lottie, similarly reflect emotional struggles and complexities. Alice’s deep bond with her sister, marked by a mix of love, responsibility, and resentment, is tested by Catty’s disappearance and eventual tragic death.
Alice’s inability to fully understand Catty’s actions or find closure intensifies her emotional turmoil, leaving her vulnerable to the changes that follow. The introduction of Lottie into Alice’s life complicates her emotional landscape further.
Lottie, with her mysterious aura, provides Alice with both comfort and emotional upheaval, as their dynamic shifts between attraction, trust, and uncertainty. Lottie’s presence challenges Alice’s sense of self, as their connection becomes a battleground for emotional and personal growth.
Both María and Alice grapple with complex relationships that are marked by tension, longing, and the desire for deeper emotional fulfillment, illustrating the central role of human connections in their journeys of self-discovery and transformation.