The Chilbury Ladies' Choir

As a central protagonist, Mrs. Margaret Tilling is a dynamic and round character whose transformation embodies the theme of The Power of Finding One’s Voice. Initially a widow defined by her quiet deference and maternal devotion to her son, David, she evolves into a confident and assertive leader for the women of Chilbury. Her journey is documented through her journal entries, allowing readers to witness her internal shift from a woman who believes she should “smile and agree” to one who directly confronts injustice (5). This development is not sudden but gradual, beginning with small acts of courage, such as publicly supporting Primrose Trent’s proposal for a ladies’ choir, an act that surprises even Mrs. Tilling herself. Her growth is thus intrinsically linked to the choir, which becomes the venue for her to test and strengthen her newfound resolve, culminating in her solo at the competition and her eventual leadership after Prim’s death.

Mrs. Tilling’s identity as a caregiver is fundamental to her character, extending beyond her son to encompass the entire community. She acts as a surrogate mother to Hattie Lovell, a confidante to Venetia Winthrop, and a protector to Kitty.