Final answer:
Dona Cristã's description of Novinha as 'touching her heart is like bathing in ice' metaphorically indicates that Novinha is emotionally distant, making connections with her as challenging as the discomfort experienced when taking an icy bath.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Dona Cristã describes Novinha by saying "touching her heart is like bathing in ice," she is metaphorically stating that Novinha is emotionally distant or unapproachable. This phrase reflects a character who may appear cold, reserved, or detached, making emotional connections with her challenging. The comparison to ice suggests that Novinha does not easily open up or exhibit warmth in emotional exchanges, providing an experience akin to the shock or discomfort one might feel when immersed in icy waters. The metaphor aligns with themes in literature that explore the emotional barriers individuals erect, which can be due to a variety of past experiences or intrinsic personality traits.