Supp. Unit 5 English - FL - Supp. Unit 5

Discuss in groups plays or films with a strong message of social reform that you have watched.

Read the play out in parts. Enact the play on a suitable occasion.

Is drama a good medium for conveying a social message? Discuss.

If you were to write these Issues today, what are some of the Incidents, examples and problems that you would think of as relevant?

This play, written in the 1950s, is a humorous and satirical depiction of the status of the mother in the family.
(1) What are the issues it raises?
(2) Do you think it caricatures these issues or do you think that the problems it raises are genuine? How does the play resolve the issues? Do you agree with the resolution? ”

MRS PEARSON: Well, this time I don't. And don't talk rubbish to me about working hard. I've a good idea how much you do, Doris Pearson. I put in twice the hours you do, and get no wages nor thanks for it. Why are you going to wear your yellow silk? Where are you going?
DORIS: [sulkily] Out with Charlie Spence.
MRS PEARSON: Why?
DORIS: [wildly] Why? Why? What's the matter with you? Why shouldn't I go out with Charlie Spence if he asks me and I want to? Any objections? Go on - you might as well tell me...
MRS PEARSON: [severely] Can't you find anybody better? I wouldn't be seen dead with Charlie Spence. Buck teeth and half-witted...
DORIS: He isn't...
MRS PEARSON: When I was your age I'd have found somebody better than Charlie Spence-or given myself up as a bad job.

Q.1. What does Mrs. Pearson say about Doris' work compared to hers?
Q.2. Why does Mrs. Pearson criticize Doris for going out with Charlie Spence?
Q.3. How does Doris react when Mrs. Pearson questions her about Charlie Spence?

MRS FITZGERALD: Yes-but I don't want to be anybody else...
MRS PEARSON: Now-stop worrying. It's easier changing back-I can do it any time we want...
MRS FITZGERALD: Well-do it now...
MRS PEARSON: Not likely. I've got to deal with your family first. That's the idea, isn't it? Didn't know how to begin with 'em, you said. Well. I'll show you.

Q.1. What does Mrs. Fitzgerald mean?
Q.2. What is Mrs. Pearson's plan?