Sunday, June 16, 2013

What is Elizabeth's reaction to her arrest in act 2?

Elizabeth's reaction to her arrest is very practical. She does not resist, but rather, she tells Mary what will need to be done tomorrow—when to bake and how best to help John—and she gives instructions to John about what to tell their children, so that they will not fear for her or worry in her absence. Elizabeth very clearly tries to be strong and brave, despite her "great fear" (from the stage direction). In fact, she actually says, "I will fear nothing." Although she obediently submits to her arrest, she faces it with strength of spirit and a great deal of courage. She thinks of her children and her household before herself, though she is afraid. When she's taken to the cart, she even submits to being shackled. Perhaps her knowledge that she is truly innocent gives her the strength required to endure such a tragic ordeal.

No comments:

Post a Comment

What is the theme of the chapter Lead?

Primo Levi's complex probing of the Holocaust, including his survival of Auschwitz and pre- and post-war life, is organized around indiv...