The Allure of the Unknown: Sylvia is a young girl living in a remote, almost untouched environment. The hunter represents the outside world, with its excitement, knowledge, and adventure. His arrival sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder in Sylvia, drawing her towards him.
The Power of Masculinity: The hunter is a strong, confident figure who exhibits skills and knowledge that Sylvia admires. This embodies the classic trope of the "heroic" male figure, often romanticized in literature.
The Forbidden Fruit: The hunter is also an outsider, a visitor to Sylvia's world. This "forbidden" element enhances his appeal, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. Sylvia is drawn to the allure of something different and potentially dangerous.
The Conflict of Nature and Culture: The hunter's presence represents the encroachment of civilization into Sylvia's wilderness. He is a threat to the natural world she cherishes. Sylvia's attraction to him is intertwined with a fear of losing her own world, a fear that adds complexity to her feelings.
The Growing Awareness of Self: As Sylvia interacts with the hunter, she becomes more aware of herself as a young woman. Her attraction is a part of this process, a realization of her own desires and potential.
A Blurred Line Between Attraction and Respect: Sylvia's attraction is not purely romantic. She also admires the hunter's skill and knowledge, demonstrating a deep respect for him. Jewett subtly blends these feelings, making it difficult to separate genuine admiration from potential romantic interest.
A Glimpse into the Future: Sylvia's fascination with the hunter suggests a possible future path for her, one that may involve leaving her solitary life and entering the wider world. However, the ending of the story indicates that she chooses to prioritize her connection to nature over the allure of the outside world.
Overall, Jewett's portrayal of Sylvia's attraction to the hunter is nuanced and complex. It reflects not only the universal human experience of attraction but also the deeper themes of self-discovery, the conflict between nature and culture, and the difficult choices we face when navigating the complexities of our own desires.