The character known as Madre di Nils is the mother of Nils Holgersson. She is a hardworking farmer living with her family on their farm in southern Sweden. Alongside her husband, she shows disappointment in Nils for his laziness, his mean temper, and his habit of causing mischief.

One Sunday morning, as she prepares to go to church with her husband, she retrieves Luther's Commentary and the New Testament from the shelf and sets them on the table by the window so Nils can read the service at home. She also draws up the large armchair for him.

These actions before leaving for church reflect her concern for Nils's religious instruction and her wish for him to behave appropriately. She belongs to a family unit that prizes hard work and discipline.