1. Barbara's Intentions: Barbara's actions towards Jemmy Grove were motivated by her belief that she was doing what was best for him. She saw him as a wild, uncivilized creature and believed that it was her responsibility to educate and refine him.
2. Jemmy's Well-being: Barbara's treatment of Jemmy Grove often resulted in physical and emotional distress for him. She subjected him to harsh discipline, forced him to adopt unfamiliar customs and language, and isolated him from his family and culture.
3. Cultural Differences: The events depicted in the novel take place during a time when there were significant cultural clashes between European settlers and indigenous populations. Barbara's perception of Jemmy Grove and her actions towards him were influenced by her own cultural biases.
4. Historical Context: The novel reflects the prevailing attitudes and perspectives of the 18th century, which included the idea of "civilizing" indigenous people. Barbara's treatment of Jemmy Grove can be seen as a product of her time and the prevailing social norms.
5. Ethical Considerations: From a contemporary perspective, Barbara's treatment of Jemmy Grove can be considered cruel and unethical. Her actions violated Jemmy's rights as an individual and disregarded his cultural identity and heritage.
Ultimately, whether Barbara's treatment of Jemmy Grove is viewed as cruel or not depends on the individual's interpretation and the values they hold. It requires a careful examination of the historical context and the perspectives involved.