Felicity, also known as Mrs. Fox, deeply regrets aspects of her marriage to Mr. Fox primarily because his reckless and dangerous actions repeatedly endanger the lives of their family and the entire animal community. This ongoing pattern of behavior causes her significant heartbreak and distress.
While Mr. Fox possesses charming qualities and a clever mind, his inability to resist his wild instincts, particularly his penchant for stealing from nearby farmers, leads to severe consequences. Felicity's regret stems from the profound worry and fear that these actions instill, putting their loved ones in perilous situations.
The Core Reasons for Her Regret
Felicity's regret is rooted in specific incidents and the overarching impact of Mr. Fox's choices on their family's safety and well-being.
- Endangerment of Family and Community: Mr. Fox's persistent provocations of the wealthy, vindictive farmers—Boggis, Bunce, and Bean—escalate to a point where the farmers launch a full-scale assault on his home, trapping his family and other burrowing animals underground. This act of retaliation directly threatens their lives, causing Felicity immense anguish.
- Heartbreak Over His Recklessness: She is later heartbroken when Mr. Fox admits he was wrong to provoke the farmers to the point of endangering the lives of his family and everyone else. This admission highlights his prior disregard for the consequences, which is a major source of her sorrow and disappointment.
- Desire for Safety and Stability: Unlike Mr. Fox, who thrives on risk and excitement, Felicity prioritizes safety, stability, and the peaceful upbringing of their children. His impulsive nature constantly clashes with her desire for a secure home, forcing her to live in constant anxiety.
A Conflict of Values
The underlying tension in their marriage arises from a fundamental conflict in their values and priorities.
| Aspect | Mr. Fox's Perspective | Felicity's Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Priorities | Thrill of the chase, outwitting humans, providing "well" | Safety, security, family well-being, peaceful existence |
| Approach | Reckless, impulsive, takes high risks | Cautious, practical, seeks stability, avoids confrontation |
| Consequence | Excitement, but often leads to danger and conflict | Anxiety, fear, heartbreak over endangered loved ones |
Ultimately, Felicity's regret is not about a lack of love for Mr. Fox, but rather a deep sorrow and frustration over the choices he makes that jeopardize everything she holds dear. Her heartbreak signifies the burden of living with the constant threat posed by his uncontained wildness, making her question the peace and security that should come with married life.
