In "The Revolt of Mother," the mother commandeers the new barn for her household. She confronts the minister when he challenges her actions. How does Freeman use description and figurative language to disclose Mother's character in these scenes? Support your argument with examples from the story.
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In "The Revolt of 'Mother'" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman, the author utilizes vivid description and effective figurative language to reveal the character of "Mother," whose real name is Sarah Penn. Freeman portrays Mother as a determined and strong-willed woman who, after years of being promised a new house by her husband, Adoniram, takes matters into her own hands.
When she moves into the new barn meant for the family's livestock, Freeman describes Mother’s actions with a sense of righteousness and calm resolve that speaks to her character. The description of Mother’s hands, for instance, as being "as firm and sure on the reins" as her husband's, implies her capability and her readiness to steer her family's direction, just like she steers the horse. This metaphor subtly communicates Mother's inherent strength and ability to take control.
Furthermore, in the confrontation with the minister, Freeman uses dialogue and depiction to illustrate Mother's moral conviction and courage. The language Mother uses is respectful, yet firm and unyielding, demonstrating her inner strength. When she says, "I ain't crazy; there ain't no call to send for the doctor," her direct manner of speech underscores her lucidity and determination, confounding the minister's expectation of a woman's role and demeanor.
The figurative language comes into play when Mother's patience is likened to a "worn-out garment," suggesting that it has been tried and tested to its limit, and now she has discarded it in favor of a more assertive approach. This simile deepens our understanding of the character's transformation and her readiness to cast aside the passive role traditionally assigned to her.
By using such descriptive and figurative language, Freeman not only provides readers with deep insights into Mother's character but also emphasizes the themes of gender roles and rebellion against the societal norms of her time.
Extra: Mary E. Wilkins Freeman was an American novelist and short story writer known for her portrayal of women's lives in rural New England during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In "The Revolt of 'Mother'," Freeman explores the themes of gender roles, respect, and the struggle for self-expression within the confines of a patriarchal society.
The main character, Sarah Penn, is described as a simple farm woman, yet through Freeman's storytelling, we see her emerge as a protagonist with depth, intelligence, and agency. In a time when women's voices were often marginalized, Sarah's character stands out as a beacon of resilience and empowerment.
Freeman's use of figurative language and description is not just a literary device but also a powerful tool in illustrating the changing dynamics in Sarah's character. The act of moving into the barn represents more than just a quest for a new house—it symbolizes a revolt against the status quo and a woman claiming her right to be heard and respected.
In education, analyzing literary devices such as description and figurative language is essential because it helps students understand how authors create complex characters and themes. By examining how Freeman discloses Mother's character, students can gain insights into how language shapes our understanding of a narrative and its characters.