Who Lavinia Whateley is
Lavinia Whateley belongs to the Whateley family, whose farm stands outside the isolated village of Dunwich in Massachusetts. She lives in a household surrounded by local suspicion, old books and secret work.
She is said to fear the hills, yet she is also bound to them. When people seek an explanation for Wilbur's strangeness, Lavinia offers little help in understanding him.
Lavinia Whateley and the others in the story
Lavinia's father, Old Whateley, has a reputation among the local people as a wizard. He teaches her son Wilbur from ancient books, passing on languages and knowledge of the occult.
Lavinia gives birth to Wilbur without naming his father, and the village responds with gossip. Her place in the family connects her to the mystery surrounding the boy and the secretive household.
Questions
Who is Lavinia Whateley?
Lavinia Whateley is the mother of Wilbur Whateley and the daughter of Old Whateley.
Does Lavinia name Wilbur's father?
No, she never identifies Wilbur's father, and his birth becomes a subject of village talk.
Is Lavinia afraid of the hills?
Yes, she is said to be afraid of the hills, although she also has a bond with them.
