Essay Questions

What is the main theme in As for Me and My House by Sinclair Ross?

Infidelity in marriage emerges as the main theme because the story revolves around the union between Philip Bentley and his wife Mrs. Bentley. The reader realizes that both Philip and Mrs. Bentley are not happily married because there is a lack of love. Philip is not romantic towards his wife but he is having a secretive affair with Judith. Mrs. Bentley loves her husband and she is ready to sacrifice for anything to make him happy. Sinclair Ross is passing a message to readers that marriage is not always a bed of roses because it entails struggles and many hardships including lack of love.

What is the significance of Steve to Mr. Philip and Mrs. Bentley?

The relationship between Mrs. Bentley and Mr. Philip is unhealthy because there is no affection between them. However, when Steve is introduced to them, their love begins to blossom. Steve is an adopted son to them and they consider him as their biological son. Paul plays a significant role in Mrs. Bentley’s life because he is the one who introduces Steve to the family. However, when Steve leaves Bentley’s relationship becomes unhealthy. Therefore, Steve is significant in Mrs. Bentley and Mr. Philip because he unites them and brings affection.

What is the irony of Judith’s baby who is born outside wedlock?

Mr. Philip is having a secretive affair with Judith behind Mrs. Bentley’s back. When Mrs. Bentley feels sick, Mr. Philip brings Judith to take care of her and help to do some household works such as cleaning and cooking. Later, Mrs. Bentley realizes that Philip is having an affair with Judith when she gets pregnant. Mrs. Bentley is angry and Judith is sent to her rural home to nurse her pregnancy there. Unfortunately, Judith passes away while giving birth. The irony is that Judith’s baby is adopted by Mrs. Bentley and Philip and she brings a lot of joy to them because their love and relationship become healthy again. The reader finds it satirical that Mrs. Bentley agrees to take care of the baby who is fathered by her husband with another woman.