Explain how the exchange of personalities between Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald reflects the contrast and irony in the story, in Mother’s Day?
Refer to the given lines, from the text - She opened the door a little wider and let me in. She walked in front of me along the passage. I followed her. She opened the door of the front room and went in. I stopped in the doorway. The room was full of things which I knew so well and which seemed to look at me reproachfully.
Answer as written by the student:
The exchange of personalities between Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald reflects the contrast and irony in the story, in Mother’s Day. The contrast is the difference between two things that are opposite or incompatible. The irony is the difference between what is expected and what actually happens. The contrast and irony of the situation are as follows:
- Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald have contrasting personalities . Mrs Pearson is a timid and submissive housewife, who is always busy with household chores and catering to the needs of her family. Mrs Fitzgerald is a strong and assertive fortune teller , who is independent and confident. However, they swap their personalities and behave in the opposite way. Mrs Pearson becomes bold and outspoken, while Mrs Fitzgerald becomes calm and gentle. This shows the contrast between their original and exchanged personalities.
- Mrs Pearson’s family and Mrs Fitzgerald’s customers have different expectations from them. Mrs Pearson’s family expects her to be obedient and servile , and to do everything they ask her to do. Mrs Fitzgerald’s customers expect her to be mysterious and helpful, and to tell them their fortunes. However, they are surprised and shocked by their changed behaviour. Mrs Pearson’s family faces her wrath and criticism , and is forced to do their own work. Mrs Fitzgerald’s customers face her kindness and sympathy, and are given practical advice. This shows the irony of their expectations and reality.
Step-by-Step explanation of the answer:
Let me explain to you how the exchange of personalities between Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald reflects the contrast and irony in the story, in Mother’s Day, following these steps:
- Identify the contrast and irony: The contrast and irony in this story are based on the exchange of personalities between Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald, who are two very different women.🙃
- Explain the contrast: The contrast is the difference between their original and exchanged personalities. 🤪
- Explain the irony: The irony is the difference between their expectations and reality. 😂
