She was the fake great-aunt of Annemarie.
During the funeral of Great Aunt Birte, Ellen receives a letter revealing that Birte had left her a significant inheritance in her will. This surprise inheritance changes Ellen's life and sets off a chain of events in the story.
Kirsti was sent to bed after Aunt Birte's funeral in "Number the Stars" because she was being disrespectful and talking loudly during the somber event. Mama wanted her to show respect for Aunt Birte and the funeral proceedings by being quiet and polite.
Ellen unexpectedly inherits her great-aunt Birte's old house and all its contents at the funeral. This surprise bequeathment sets off a chain of events that leads Ellen on a journey of discovery about her family's past.
Aunt Birte's funeral served as a way to honor and remember her life, as well as to bring friends and family together to mourn her passing. It also symbolized an important moment of reflection and closure for the characters in the story.
In "Number the Stars," Lise's funeral is a somber and sad event because she died tragically, while Aunt Birte's funeral is depicted as more of a celebration of her long life and the joy she brought to others. The different tones reflect the different circumstances surrounding each character's death.
The purpose of Aunt Birte's funeral in "Number the Stars" was to provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together to mourn her passing, pay their respects, and celebrate her life. It also highlights the themes of loss and remembrance that are prominent in the book.
Like uncle herik says
Kristi was sent to bed before Aunt Birte's funeral because she was too young to understand or handle the emotions and rituals involved with a funeral. It was likely seen as more appropriate for her to skip the funeral in order to protect her from any potential distress or confusion.
Aunt Birte's Knife
Kirsti was sent to bed after Aunt Birte's funeral because she was being disrespectful and disobedient by playing and not showing proper respect for the somber occasion. Her behavior was seen as inappropriate and insensitive, so she was disciplined by being sent to bed.
No, Great-Aunt Birte was not real.