Essay Questions

Why does Frank hide his marriage to Winfred from his father? (Act 1, Scene 1)

Frank asserts, “I’ll use /Such dutiful and ready means, that ere/He can have notice of what’s past, th’ inheritance/To which I am born as heir shall be assured;/That done, why, let him know it: if he like it or not/Yet he shall have no power in him left.” Here, Frank implies that his father would deny him his inheritance should he discern that he secretly wedded Winnifred. Therefore, he intends to secure the inheritance first, before disclosing to him that he is married.

Using Feminism theory, deconstruct Old Banks’ actions towards Mother Swayer in Act 2, Scene 1.

First, Old Banks intimidates and affronts Mother Swayer: “I do, witch, I do; and worse I would, knew I a name more hateful. What makest thou upon my ground?” Old Banks engages in sexism based on how he addresses Mother Swayer. His insults are illustrative of the chauvinism which renders women vulnerable. He castigates her as if he is certain that she is malicious yet she is not. Moreover, he “Beats her” so she can vacate the ground where she was gathering sticks. Old Banks regards Mother Swayer a weakling female who cannot shield herself from his aggression.