How would you interpret “embolden” in the context?
The pneumatic drill rumbled on and on outside. Around two o’clock, the ceiling began to creak as the occupant of the flat overhead became more active; otherwise, Robin might have been alone in the whole building. Gradually solitude, coupled with the feeling of pure delight that threatened to burst her ribcage every time her eyes fell on the ring on her left hand, emboldened her. She began to clean and tidy the tiny room under her interim control.

How would you interpret “embolden” in the second to the last sentence? The solitude made her braver? Why did solitude make her feel braver?
Thanks!

Question

How would you interpret “embolden” in the context?
The pneumatic drill rumbled on and on outside. Around two o’clock, the ceiling began to creak as the occupant of the flat overhead became more active; otherwise, Robin might have been alone in the whole building. Gradually solitude, coupled with the feeling of pure delight that threatened to burst her ribcage every time her eyes fell on the ring on her left hand, emboldened her. She began to clean and tidy the tiny room under her interim control.

How would you interpret “embolden” in the second to the last sentence? The solitude made her braver? Why did solitude make her feel braver?
Thanks!

Answer

Solitude and the feeling of delight about her engagement or wedding ring(I assume) made her feel braver. Perhaps because no one is there to tell her what to do, she feels in control. Is her marriage a step up for her, helping her to improve her position?

Answer

Perhaps her feeling of full control over the space made her feel stronger and more responsible.  There may also be a lack of criticism involved.
It is coupled with the feeling she has when she looks at the ring.  Perhaps this has been given to her by someone who loves her and, therefore, makes her feel valued.  This value, and maybe the expectation of seeing the person who gave her the ring, might give her a pride and responsibility over the space that motivates her to improve it.  (In anticipation of the ring-giver arriving?)
Sorry, that was a bit long-winded.  Being alone and her feeling of love gave her the confidence and motivation to clean the room.

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