"Mother's Day" is the name of J.B. Priestley's one-act play. The title conveys a message. Husbands and children must respect wives and mothers in their families. These people shouldn't tell them to do one thing or another all the time. With Mrs. Fitzgerald's help, Mrs. Pearson is able to teach her spoiled kids and husband the right way to behave. Everything turns out well for the mother, who wins over everyone in the family.
In the play, who helps Mrs. Pearson teach her family the right way to behave?
(a) Mr. Pearson
(b) Mrs. Fitzgerald
(c) The children
(d) The neighbors
Solution
(b) Mrs. Fitzgerald
Suggested Reading: Compare and contrast Mrs Pearson and Mrs Fitzgerald
What do you think is the theme of the play? How has it been worked out?
The theme of the play is the status of women in their own household. The housewife serves the members of her family with complete devotion, sincerity and love. However, she is never given the regard, attention or thanks due to her. Her leniency and eagerness to please everyone reduces her to the rank of an unpaid domestic servant in her own house. Instead of being politely requested for a favour, she is ordered to do it. She gets no thanks in return.
The theme of transformation and redemption is beautifully portrayed through the characters of the Pearson family. Mrs. Pearson, as the overworked and underappreciated mother, represents selflessness and sacrifice. Her family members, Doris, Cyril, and George, initially take advantage of her kindness. However, through the intervention of Mrs. Fitzgerald's spirit in Mrs. Pearson's body, they are forced to confront their own shortcomings and selfish behavior. This leads to a positive change in their attitudes towards their mother, as they begin to appreciate her efforts and willingly obey her guidance.
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