What is the significance of Kristin’s first trip out of the valley in which she was raised? In Book 3, she returns to the valley of Jørundgaard. How have her experiences changed her, and how is this reflected in her perspective as she returns to the place of her childhood?

Gunnulf is Erlend’s brother, but they appear as opposites in many ways. How does Gunnulf meet some of Kristin’s emotional needs that Erlend is unable to meet, and what does this reveal about the character of Erlend?

To what extent is Lavrans an example for other religious people to follow?