Who Miss Minchin is
Miss Minchin is the headmistress of Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies in London. She presents Sara as an example to the other pupils, though she does not like her. Her welcome depends on money rather than affection or concern for the child.
What Miss Minchin wants
Miss Minchin values Sara as a wealthy pupil whose father pays for special treatment. She gives Sara a private sitting room and plans a grand birthday party to show her off. When Sara politely reveals that she already speaks French, Miss Minchin feels humiliated and holds a grudge.
How Miss Minchin changes
When Sara loses her fortune, Miss Minchin stops treating her as a privileged pupil. She takes away Sara's comfortable room and makes her work for her board. Sara's calm manner and ability at lessons anger her rather than winning her respect.
Miss Minchin and the others in the story
Miss Minchin's sister, Miss Amelia, feels sorry for Sara but cannot stand up to the headmistress. The contrast between Miss Minchin and Sara brings the book's concern with kindness into focus. Miss Minchin has authority, while Sara shows that dignity need not depend on wealth.
Questions
Who is Miss Minchin?
Miss Minchin is the headmistress of the London school where Sara Crewe lives.
Why does Miss Minchin treat Sara badly?
She values Sara's money rather than Sara herself, and becomes cruel when Sara cannot pay.
Is Miss Minchin related to Miss Amelia?
Yes, Miss Amelia is her sister. Amelia is timid and does not challenge Miss Minchin's treatment of Sara.