The Master
Although Maria presents herself as a master and teacher of opera, she still has many things to learn. In the play she is depicted as being very critical and as being a bit of a diva; she then realizes that she should be a bit kinder towards her students in order to help them progress.
Teacher vs. student
Maria is the teacher-figure in this play, and it is her job to teach her students about her profession. However, in the end it is ironically Maria herself who learns something.
Top of her profession
Maria is shown to be at the top of her profession and is even in a position where she is able to teach others about her experiences. However, she is ironically presented as a cruel and unkind character.
Maria's tips
Maria advises her students to find an emotional connection with their performance. In order to do this, they must truly know themselves. Ironically, looking deep within themselves produces the ability to transcend oneself and perform, according to Maria.
Teaching style
Although Maria is being harsh because she wants her students to grow and become successful, she is ironically alienating them due to her forceful teaching style.
