Sigrid, is steadfast in her commitment to family & home, first and foremost ~ although most will disagree with her reluctance to confront her slovenly husband, there were reasons for the choices she made that she (and all women) are entitled to. You don't have to agree with her to respect her, along with others who make similar decisions ~ she is still a good role model in her portrayal of strength in the face of adversity, devotion to her children above all, caring for home & hearth, etc. It's a book I'd highly recommend, although not to everyone ~ the reader must have the ability to transport themselves away from the mores and trends of today, understanding the time at which the story was set, in order to fully appreciate it. The author's descriptive style and use of historical context make the book enjoyable as well as thought-provoking.