Like a House on Fire Lesson Plan

Discuss the state of the Slovak's marriage. What are the power dynamics at play in their relationship? How do they evolve over the course of the story?

The Slovaks appear to be in a loveless marriage. As much as possible, they exist in two separate worlds: he runs the farm while she runs the home. It is clear however that overall, Frank has the upper hand in the relationship. His wife seems to follow his lead whether she agrees with it or not. Kennedy doesn't even give Mrs. Slovak a name, she is either Frank's wife or Mrs. Slovak; her identity always tied to her husband. When she has a miscarriage, Frank decides they will put it behind them and that nobody in the town...