NEB class 12 One Act Plays from Compulsory English

 

1^st Play

The Matter of Husbands

                                                                      By Ferenc Molnár

About the play and dramatist (playwright)

"A Matter of Husbands" is a one-act play written by Hungarian playwright Ferenc Molnár, first performed in 1910. The play is a comedic exploration of jealousy, love, and deception in marriage. It focuses on the interaction between two women—the Earnest Young Woman and the Famous Actress—who are connected by the same man, the Earnest Young Woman’s husband, whom both women have emotional ties to. The husband, who admires the actress's talent, has developed romantic feelings for her, creating tension and doubt in his marriage.

The play begins with the Earnest Young Woman seeking advice from the Famous Actress after suspecting her husband’s feelings for her. The conversation unfolds in the theatre, with the actresses manipulating the situation. The Famous Actress plays down the idea that the man’s feelings are romantic, suggesting that he only admires her for her acting ability. However, unbeknownst to both women, the husband is hiding in the closet, listening to their conversation. When he eventually emerges, he confesses his love for the Famous Actress, which creates a complicated emotional triangle.

The play explores themes such as infidelity, illusion versus reality, and the complexity of human relationships. The characters’ actions often blur the line between performance and authenticity, as they act out roles in their personal lives similar to the performances they give on stage. The ending of the play is open-ended, with no resolution to the emotional conflicts. It leaves the audience to ponder the nature of relationships, love, and deception in the context of marriage and attraction.

Molnár's use of wit and sharp character dynamics gives the play a lasting appeal, particularly in how it addresses timeless human concerns in a light-hearted yet reflective manner.

Main Characters

The Actress:  A confident, charming, and manipulative woman who uses her wits and acting skills to handle the situation to her advantage.

The Earnest Young Woman: A sincere, naïve (shy/ timid), and somewhat insecure wife who seeks the truth about her husband’s infidelity. She is deeply concerned about her husband’s affections and believes the Actress has stolen him. Her vulnerability and trust make her an easy target for the Actress’s manipulation

The Husband (Mentioned, but never seen): The husband is the unseen character who drives the conflict. His supposed infatuation with the Actress leads to the confrontation, but his true feelings and intentions remain ambiguous throughout the play.

The Matter of Husbands is a short one-act play by Ferenc Molnár, a Hungarian dramatist. The play is a light-hearted comedy that explores themes of deception, trust, and the complexities of romantic relationships.

Summary

"The Matter of Husbands" by Ferenc Molnár is a witty one-act play that centers on a confrontation between an earnest young woman and a famous actress. The young woman believes the actress has seduced her husband and comes to plead for his return. Despite the seriousness of the accusation, the actress remains calm and uses her charm and cunning to deflect the blame. She reassures the young woman that her husband’s affection is still intact and that his apparent infatuation is merely a test of loyalty, designed to make the young woman appreciate him more.

As the conversation progresses, the actress skillfully spin a narrative that paints the husband’s actions in a favorable light, convincing the young woman that she has misunderstood the situation. The young woman, desperate to believe in her husband's faithfulness, clings to this explanation and leaves feeling comforted and more confident in her marriage. However, after the young woman departs, the actress drops her facade, subtly hinting to the audience that the affair was real all along.

The play humorously explores themes of manipulation, trust, and insecurity in relationships. Through its sharp dialogue and playful tone, it highlights how easily appearances can deceive and how skillful storytelling can alter perceptions of truth. Molnár’s work cleverly blurs the line between performance and reality, suggesting that life itself can sometimes feel like an act.

Alternate Summary

‘A Matter of Husbands’ by Ferenc Molnar is a very twisted one act. It depicts the story of an Ernest Woman who is married to a lawyer who knows of a Famous Woman. The Ernest Woman comes to the Famous Woman because she believes that her husband is cheating on her with the Famous Woman. The famous woman weaves a tale about how it is a cleverly staged act where the man is attempting to trick his wife to get more affection from her. When the Famous Woman finally convinces the Ernest Woman that the story is true we find out that the husband was hiding in the closet the whole time.

This play would require only two female actresses. Our group has many strong comedic female actresses that could make these parts very over dramatic. The relationship between the two will need to grow and both of the performers will need to be very comfortable with each other. I don’t think either of the characters in this one act is particularly likable. The actor playing the Ernest Woman would need to be very ditzy and gullible and the Famous Woman would have to be very wicked and twisted.

This is a one act somewhat of a set nothing too flashy but still enough to create a mildly realistic setting. Lighting would be very basic and standard. I think that blocking could add a lot to this piece and add another layer of comedic humor to the piece. As for costuming, I see the Famous Woman wearing a floor length gown with matching gloves and a fur coat and the Ernest Woman wearing a frumpy dress with white shoes with the socks sticking out. I think that the costuming will help introduce the characters before they even begin speaking. With a one act there is not a lot of time for character development so any way to help reveal something about the characters is a necessary.

In Brief

The play revolves around two main characters – an Earnest Young Woman and a famous Actress. The Young Woman visits the Actress, accusing her of stealing her husband. She believes that the Actress’s charm and beauty have lured her husband away. However, the Actress skillfully manipulates the conversation, convincing the Young Woman that the entire affair is a misunderstanding and that her husband is simply testing his wife’s love for him. By the end of the play, the Young Woman leaves reassured, while the Actress quietly revels in her success, hinting that her involvement with the husband is very real.

Themes

Deception and Manipulation: The Actress deceives the Young Woman through her eloquence and quick thinking, highlighting the power of manipulation.

Trust and Insecurity: The Young Woman's doubts about her husband reflect broader issues of trust and insecurity in relationships.

Theatricality in Real Life: The play blurs the line between performance and reality, suggesting that the skills of an actress can extend beyond the stage and into personal affairs.

Feminine Rivalry and Solidarity: Although the two women are romantic rivals, there is a subtle camaraderie in how they engage with each other

 Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. What favor does Earnest Young Woman ask from The Famous Actress?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the Earnest Young Woman asks a favor from the Famous Actress to help her pursue an acting career. The young woman, who admires the actress's success, hopes that the Famous Actress will offer her guidance and assistance in getting a chance to act on the stage. Specifically, the Earnest Young Woman wants the Famous Actress to speak to a theater manager or help her secure an audition so that she can make her own mark in the world of theater.

This request highlights the desperation and ambition of the young woman, as well as her belief that the Famous Actress can serve as a stepping stone to her own success. It also underscores the power dynamics in the theater world, where established figures like the Famous Actress can influence the careers of newcomers. The interaction between the two characters explores themes of ambition, influence, and the often complex relationships between people in positions of power and those trying to break into their world.

b. What, according to The Earnest Young Woman, are the indications that her husband has fallen in love with Famous Actress?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the Earnest Young Woman indicates several subtle signs that suggest her husband has fallen in love with the Famous Actress. She mentions that her husband has become unusually distant, spending more time thinking about or talking about the Famous Actress. The young woman notices that he is increasingly admiring and focused on her—his attention has shifted from his wife to the actress.

One of the key indications is that the husband seems to be mesmerized by the actress's presence and charmed by her beauty and talent. The Earnest Young Woman points out how he behaves in an unusual manner whenever the Famous Actress is around, almost as if he is hypnotized by her. The husband may be showing a level of infatuation or romantic interest that was not present before, which causes the Earnest Young Woman to feel insecure and concerned about their relationship. This sense of growing affection towards the Famous Actress signals a shift in the husband's emotional priorities, as he becomes captivated by someone outside of his marriage.

c. Is Earnest Young Woman convinced by the argument of Famous Actress? How?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the Earnest Young Woman is not entirely convinced by the argument of the Famous Actress. The Famous Actress tries to persuade the Earnest Young Woman that her husband’s feelings for her are purely admiration for her talent and not romantic in nature. The actress argues that there is no reason for the young woman to be concerned, as her husband’s interest in her is solely professional and based on respect for her work as an actress.

However, the Earnest Young Woman remains skeptical of the Famous Actress’s reassurances. She recognizes that the situation is more complicated than the actress suggests. While the Famous Actress tries to rationalize the husband's behavior as innocent, the Earnest Young Woman perceives the emotional distance growing between her and her husband and remains unconvinced that the admiration is purely platonic. Her feelings of insecurity and jealousy persist, highlighting the tension between the two women. Despite the Famous Actress’s explanation, the Earnest Young Woman’s intuition tells her otherwise, and she continues to feel threatened by the actress's presence in her husband’s life. Thus, the conversation does not fully convince her to let go of her doubts.

d. Where is the Earnest Young Woman’s husband hiding himself as they are talking about him?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the Earnest Young Woman’s husband is hiding in a closet while she and the Famous Actress are talking about him. Unbeknownst to the women, he has overheard their conversation and is hiding there, listening to their discussion about his feelings for the actress. His hiding in the closet adds a layer of dramatic irony to the scene, as the audience knows he is eavesdropping while the characters remain unaware of his presence. This creates a sense of tension and humor in the play, highlighting the complexities and misunderstandings in the relationships between the characters.

e. When do you feel that Famous Actress is really good at acting?

I feel the famous Actress is really good at acting when she tells the Earnest Young Woman that her husband is playing a game upon her to make her jealous so that she will change her personality and can try to impress him her by any means. She asks for lock of hair, which the Earnest Young Woman brings with her. She says Alfred has that because her hair-dresser may steal and give it to him.

f. How do we come to know that Famous Actress and the husband of Earnest Young Woman are in love?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, we come to know that the Famous Actress and the Earnest Young Woman's husband are in love through a combination of subtle cues and an eventual revelation. The most significant moment that reveals their romantic feelings for each other occurs when the husband steps out of the closet after overhearing the conversation between his wife and the actress.

At this point, he admits to the Earnest Young Woman and the Famous Actress that he is indeed in love with the actress. His confession confirms what had been subtly hinted at earlier—the way he had been distant, admiring, and emotionally drawn to the Famous Actress. Additionally, the Famous Actress's behavior also suggests that she has developed feelings for him. She reacts to the revelation with a certain softness and understanding, indicating that she, too, has affection for him.

This confession marks a turning point in the play, as it exposes the romantic connection that had been building between the husband and the actress, which had been obscured by the husband’s initial denial and the actress’s efforts to downplay it. The characters' interactions and the emotional tension reveal the complexity of their feelings and relationships, culminating in the open acknowledgment of their love for each other.

g. Write down the plot of the play in a paragraph.

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the play revolves around a conversation between an Earnest Young Woman and a Famous Actress. The Earnest Young Woman is concerned that her husband has fallen in love with the Famous Actress, noticing his increasing admiration for her. The Famous Actress reassures her, suggesting that the husband's feelings are based on respect for her talent rather than romantic interest. However, unbeknownst to the women, the husband is hiding in a closet, overhearing their conversation. When he finally steps out, he admits that he is indeed in love with the Famous Actress, which surprises both women. The revelation sets the stage for a complex emotional confrontation as the husband and the Famous Actress confess their mutual feelings for each other, leaving the Earnest Young Woman to grapple with the reality of her husband's infidelity. The play ends with an exploration of love, betrayal, and the tension between admiration and romantic affection.

Reference to the context

a. Sketch the character of Famous Actress.

The Famous Actress is a young, renowned, and beautiful actress who is envied by the ordinary woman. On the outside, she looks innocent and harmless but in reality, she is mean and wicked. She is cunning and deceitful as seen in the way she concocts a story to sway the woman from believing that her husband was having an affair with her. She also lives an immoral life as seen in the conclusion of the story where it was revealed that Alfred, the ordinary woman’s husband was actually in her house.

b. Shed light on the difference between an ordinary woman and an actress.

In the story, “A Matter of Husband”, the ordinary woman is portrayed as a simple-minded and timid person who was easily deceived by the false story told by the actress. She had come to the actress in tears completely sure that her husband was having an affair with the actress. However, the actress told a story to her of how her husband was trying to regain the love he had for her by doing things to get her jealous. Without asking questions, the ordinary woman believed her and bought into the story. In the end, it was revealed that her husband was actually in the actress’s room. This shows that the actress was cunning while the ordinary woman was timid.

c. According to Famous Actress, men associated with theatre use the theatre actresses to make their estranged wives jealous so as to woo them back. Do you agree with her argument? Why? Why not?

Yes I agree with her argument. A men associated with theatre mostly have an ordinary, simple-minded and timid wife who can be easily deceived by the false story. In the act too, Alfred was hiding in the actress’s room so as to regain the love he had for her by doing things to get her jealous. Thus, men take advantage of the cunning actress to make their estranged wives jealous so as to woo them back.

Alternate answer

I don't fully agree with the Famous Actress's argument that men associated with theatre use actresses to make their estranged wives jealous in order to woo them back. While it is true that some individuals may try to manipulate emotions, including jealousy, to rekindle a relationship, this tactic is often short-sighted and could create more harm than good. Using jealousy as a tool to revive affection can lead to resentment, misunderstandings, and further emotional distance rather than resolving deeper issues in the marriage.

In the case of "A Matter of Husbands", the husband's feelings for the Famous Actress seem more genuine than a calculated attempt to manipulate his wife. His attraction appears to be authentic, and his confession of love for the actress is not aimed at provoking jealousy but rather a result of his emotional connection with her. The idea that men associated with theatre use actresses merely to make their wives jealous oversimplifies the complexities of romantic relationships and motivations.

Therefore, while jealousy may occasionally be used as a tactic by some, it is not a reliable or healthy strategy for repairing relationships. In this play, the dynamics between the characters seem to reflect more genuine emotional involvement than a calculated effort to manipulate the situation through jealousy.

d. How does Famous Actress make a fool of Earnest Young Woman?

In "The Famous Actress" by Ferenc Molnár, the Famous Actress makes a fool of the Earnest Young Woman by cleverly manipulating her insecurities and playing on her emotions. When the Earnest Young Woman expresses her concerns about her husband’s growing admiration for the Famous Actress, the actress downplays the situation, pretending to be completely unaware of the husband’s infatuation. She reassures the young woman that her husband’s feelings are harmless and only based on admiration for her acting talent. By acting calm, confident, and understanding, the Famous Actress subtly implies that the Earnest Young Woman is being overly paranoid and irrational, making her feel foolish for doubting her husband. This manipulation allows the actress to maintain control over the situation while leaving the Earnest Young Woman questioning her own judgment, all while concealing the truth that she is, in fact, romantically involved with the husband.

e. The conversation between the two women takes place on the stage of the theatre. What role does the theatre house as a part of setting play in A Matter for Husband?

In "A Matter of Husbands" by Ferenc Molnár, the theatre setting plays a significant role in reflecting the emotional drama and conflict between the characters. The conversation between the two women—the Earnest Young Woman and the Famous Actress—takes place on the stage of the theatre, which serves as a metaphor for the artifice and illusion that permeate their personal lives. The theatre, as a space associated with performance and pretense, mirrors the way the characters' relationships are built on appearances and hidden emotions.

The stage also emphasizes the power dynamics between the women. The Famous Actress, a seasoned performer, is accustomed to manipulating others through her charm and influence, much like how the theatre allows actors to play roles and create illusions. For the Earnest Young Woman, the stage becomes a symbol of her vulnerability, as she faces her own doubts and insecurities, unsure of the reality of her relationship with her husband. The setting underscores how both women, particularly the Famous Actress, are performing in their interactions, each manipulating the situation to their advantage. The theatre, as the backdrop of this conversation, highlights the themes of deception, illusion, and the complexity of human relationships in the play.

f. What do you think about the ending of the play?

The ending of this play ‘A Matter of Husbands’ is totally perfect. And it is quiet justify the ending of the play .The writer does the ending of this play is very pertness. He finishes all the nonplus of the character of the play. All the characters are satisfied to one another. The film actress and advocate are very satisfied in the end of the play. They clear the hurdle between them. They ensure to her that they have no affair it is only drama for you. In the end of the play the young woman is very happy about her husband. The film actress and the husband of young woman live together without any obstacle. The ending of the play is too good but full of irony. The film actress narrates to young woman that her husband really loves her but in reality he has no love for his wife. He only cheats his wife.

So, end of the play ‘A Matter of Husbands’, we can assume that “All is well the end is well.” Innocent people always suffer by shrewd people because they are often sincere by hearts but the cunning people always take advantage by their innocence.

Reference beyond the text

a. Write a paragraph describing your favourite actor/actress.

One of my favorite actors is Brahmanandam, a legendary figure in Telugu cinema known for his impeccable comic timing and versatile performances. With his distinct expressions and ability to bring humor to even the most serious scenes, Brahmanandam has become a household name for comic roles. Whether playing a simpleton or a more complex character, his ability to evoke laughter with his facial expressions, voice modulation, and body language is unparalleled. His work in films like Chup Chup Ke, Rajanna, and Dhee has made him a favorite among audiences, especially for his memorable one-liners and slapstick humor. Despite primarily being known for comedy, his range as an actor is impressive, as he can also perform serious roles with the same level of depth. Brahmanandam’s contribution to Indian cinema is invaluable, and he continues to entertain generations with his unique talent.

Alternate answer

One of my favorite actors is Madan Krishna Shrestha, a legendary figure in Nepali cinema and theatre. Known for his extraordinary acting skills and remarkable comedic timing, Madan Krishna Shrestha has been a prominent figure in the Nepali entertainment industry for decades. His partnership with Hari Bansha Acharya in their iconic comedy duo, "Mitho Mitho Tyo Lagyo," has brought immense joy to audiences through their films, plays, and television shows. Madan Krishna's performances are marked by his expressive face, impeccable timing, and ability to evoke laughter with even the smallest gestures. His roles in films like Chhakka Panja and Hami Yestai Taime demonstrate his versatility, as he can easily transition between humor and more serious roles. Beyond his acting, he is also known for his contribution to Nepali theatre and cultural preservation, making him an irreplaceable part of Nepal's entertainment history.

2^nd Pay

Facing Death

                                        By August Strindberg

Facing Death is a play by August Strindberg, first performed in 1900. The playwright himself, Strindberg, is a key figure in the development of modern drama. Known for his exploration of psychological realism and existential themes, Strindberg's works often reflect his personal struggles, his critical view of society, and his interest in the darker aspects of human nature.

About the Play

In Facing Death, Strindberg explores themes such as the inevitability of death, the complexity of human relationships, and the psychological decay of the characters. The play's characters are not noble or heroic but flawed, ordinary individuals whose emotional and psychological struggles drive the tragic tension. Strindberg's focus on internal conflict rather than external fate or divine intervention marks a shift toward modern psychological realism in drama.

Main Characters

Durand: The father and protagonist, a complex figure torn between love for his daughters and the harshness of his circumstances.

Adèle: an elder daughter who serves in the kitchen, 27 years old

 Annette, and Thérèse : twins sisters, 24 years old. Each has her own personality and relationship with their father, but all depend on him.

Antonio: a lieutenant (deputy) of Italian cavalry regiment, and guest at Durand’s house.

Pierre: an errand, a boy who manages guests and arrange trip

Facing Death is a one-act play written by August Strindberg in 1897. It explores themes of sacrifice, family duty, and existential struggle

Summary

Facing Death by August Strindberg is a one-act play that delves into the life of Monsieur Durand, a widower struggling to provide for his three daughters: Adèle, Annette, and Thérèse. Once a successful railroad worker, Durand's fortunes have declined, and the family now faces extreme poverty. Durand is tormented by the inability to secure his daughters' futures, as debts mount and creditors close in. His daughters, though fond of him, are frustrated by his stern and distant demeanor.

As the play unfolds, Durand's inner turmoil becomes more apparent. He contemplates drastic measures to ensure his daughters' financial stability. The tension escalates when Durand hints at his plan to set fire to their home to collect insurance money. His desperation grows as he sees no other way to shield his family from destitution. Durand's relationship with his daughters is fraught with misunderstandings, but his sacrifices stem from deep paternal love, even if unrecognized by them.

In the climax, Durand follows through with his plan, ultimately sacrificing his life. The fire claims him, leaving his daughters with the means to survive. Durand’s death is both tragic and redemptive, portraying the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their children. Through Durand’s actions, Strindberg explores themes of sacrifice, family duty, and the existential weight of love and despair. The play’s raw and somber tone reflects Strindberg’s naturalistic approach, highlighting the harsh realities of life and the complexities of human relationships.

In Brief

The play revolves around Durand, an impoverished former railroad worker and widower who is the father of three daughters. The family is in dire financial straits, and Durand struggles to provide for them. As the play progresses, it becomes clear that Durand is prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for the benefit of his daughters.

Durand is tormented by his failures in life and his inability to secure his daughters' futures. In a desperate attempt to solve their financial troubles, he considers setting fire to his own house so that his daughters can claim the insurance money. Ultimately, he follows through with his plan, sacrificing himself in the process.

Themes

1.      : Durand’s willingness to give his life for his daughters highlights the theme of self-sacrifice.

2.      : Durand's deep but complicated love for his daughters drives the narrative.

3.       Durand’s internal struggle reflects existential ideas of purpose, suffering, and the search for meaning.

4.       The play critiques social conditions and the desperation faced by those living in poverty.

5.       Durand’s acceptance of his grim fate touches on fatalistic views of life and death.

 Understanding the Text

Answer the following questions.

a. Where does the play take place?

The play takes place in Monsieur Durand’s dining room, where he lives with his three daughters. Durand is the owner of a boarding house, a widower, and a former railroad worker. The dining room is where much of the interaction and drama unfold, exploring themes like family dynamics and social expectations.

b. Why do the grocery, the baker and the butcher send their bills to the Durand household?

As Durand hasn’t paid their bills for a long time, the grocery, the baker and the butcher send their bills to Durand’s household. As a consequence, they couldn’t provide any further items until the bills were paid.

c. Why does Monsieur Duran spend money on candles when he doesn’t have money to buy even bread?

Monsieur Durand spends money on candles, despite not being able to afford bread, as a way to maintain a sense of dignity and respectability, reflecting his concern with outward appearances. Even though he is financially strained, he chooses to spend on candles, a symbol of warmth and proper decorum, to preserve a semblance of order and respect in his household. This decision reveals his inability to prioritize basic needs, such as food, over superficial matters, showcasing his flawed sense of pride and misplaced values. It also highlights the tension between social expectations and the harsh economic realities he faces, underscoring his struggles with financial management and his desire to maintain his status.

d. Why did Monsieur Duran sell his life insurance?

Monsieur Durand sells his life insurance in The Boarding House because he is financially desperate. Facing mounting debts and the need to cover basic expenses, he chooses to sell his life insurance policy as a way to gain immediate cash. This act reflects his inability to manage his finances and his sense of hopelessness. Selling the life insurance is a short-term solution to his financial troubles, but it also demonstrates his lack of foresight and the desperation that drives him to sacrifice his future security for temporary relief.

e. Why has Monsieur Duran paid fire insurance?

Monsieur Durand has paid for fire insurance in The Boarding House as a measure to protect his property and maintain a sense of security, despite his financial struggles. As the owner of the boarding house, he likely feels a responsibility to safeguard his investment. The fire insurance represents a practical and somewhat prudent step, ensuring that his property would be protected in case of disaster.

f. How did Monsieur Duran and Mrs. Duran run out of their inheritances from both the sides?

In The Boarding House, Monsieur Durand and his wife run out of their inheritances from both sides due to their irresponsible spending and mismanagement of money. Despite receiving substantial inheritances, they squandered their wealth on lavish living, poor investments, and a failure to prioritize their financial needs. The Durands’ inability to manage their finances effectively is a central theme in the play, illustrating their flawed character and lack of foresight. Rather than using their inheritances wisely, they indulged in luxuries and maintained appearances, ultimately depleting their resources and finding themselves in a state of financial ruin. This highlights the themes of materialism and the consequences of poor decision-making in the play

g. Why does Monsieur Duran tell a lie about his birthplace?

In The Boarding House, Monsieur Durand tells a lie about his birthplace to elevate his social status and impress others. By claiming to have come from a prestigious or desirable place, he seeks to present himself as someone of higher standing than he actually is. This lie reflects his insecurity and desire to maintain a certain image in front of his family, boarders, and society. It highlights his preoccupation with appearances and his willingness to deceive in order to gain respect or admiration, even if it is based on falsehoods. This action underscores one of the play's key themes: the tension between social status and personal integrity.

h. What business is Monsieur Duran running to make a living?

Monsieur Durand is running a boarding house to make a living in The Boarding House. As the owner of the boarding house, he provides accommodation and meals to boarders, which serves as his primary source of income. The business is central to the play, and Durand's financial difficulties stem from his mismanagement of the boarding house, as well as his inability to balance his responsibilities as a landlord. His struggles reflect the broader themes of economic instability and the tensions between social appearances and financial reality in the play.

i. What plan does Monsieur Duran have to help his daughters with money?

In The Boarding House, Monsieur Durand plans to help his daughters by arranging marriages that will secure their financial futures. He intends to marry off his daughters to men who can provide for them financially, thereby alleviating the family's monetary struggles. Durand's plan is driven by his financial desperation and his desire to maintain social respectability, as he sees marriage as a way for his daughters to escape poverty and secure stability. However, this plan reflects his pragmatic yet somewhat cynical approach to family and life, where securing wealth through marriage is prioritized over emotional connections or individual happiness.

j. How does Monsieur Duran die?

In The Boarding House, Monsieur Durand dies from an illness, likely exacerbated by his years of poor financial management and stress. His death is not directly caused by any specific event but is a result of his overall decline, both physically and emotionally. Throughout the play, he is portrayed as a man who has been worn down by his financial struggles, social pressures, and inability to manage his household effectively. His death serves as a tragic end to a life spent in a constant battle with poverty, pride, and mismanagement. It also reflects the broader themes of social decay and personal failure.

Reference to the Context

a. Sketch the character of Monsieur Duran.

Monsieur Durand, a central character in The Boarding House by August Strindberg, is a complex figure characterized by a combination of pride, financial irresponsibility, and social aspirations. As the owner of a boarding house, he is burdened by his financial struggles, having squandered his inheritances and mismanaged his wealth. Despite his poor financial situation, he clings to appearances, attempting to maintain a façade of respectability through his actions, such as spending money on candles when he cannot afford bread or lying about his birthplace to enhance his social standing.

Durand is depicted as a man who is deeply concerned with outward appearances but lacks the practical skills needed to ensure his family's well-being. His pride and inability to accept his economic reality lead him to make decisions that only deepen his financial woes. He arranges marriages for his daughters, seeing them as a way to secure their futures, but his approach is pragmatic and materialistic, with little regard for their emotional happiness.

His character is marked by a sense of desperation, as he constantly tries to reconcile his desire for social respectability with his inability to provide for his family. In the end, Monsieur Durand's death, stemming from illness and the consequences of his poor life choices, serves as a tragic culmination of his inability to navigate his financial and personal life with wisdom and foresight.

b. How do we know that the Duran family has reached a dead end?

In The Boarding House, it becomes clear that the Durand family has reached a dead end through their financial and emotional collapse. Monsieur Durand, the head of the household, has squandered his inheritances from both sides of the family and is unable to manage the finances of the boarding house. Despite owning the property, he is financially strapped, unable to even afford basic necessities like bread, yet still prioritizes spending money on candles and other non-essentials. This mismanagement of money, along with the mounting debts and lack of viable income, indicates that the family has no clear way out of their financial difficulties.

Further, Monsieur Durand’s reliance on marrying off his daughters to wealthy men in hopes of securing their future highlights the family's desperation. Rather than empowering his daughters to build their own futures, he sees marriage as the only way to provide financial stability for them, revealing his sense of hopelessness. This arrangement reflects the dead-end nature of their situation, where the family’s survival hinges on an external solution rather than any proactive or self-sustaining plan.

The emotional state of the family members also shows their decline. Monsieur Durand’s obsession with maintaining appearances alienates him from his daughters, and the relationships within the family are strained. The tension between social respectability and financial reality leads to a lack of trust and communication, exacerbating their already precarious situation. The family's decline is further symbolized by Monsieur Durand's deteriorating health, a result of the stress and anxiety caused by their financial ruin. His physical decline mirrors the collapse of the family’s hope for a better future, cementing the idea that the Durand family has reached a dead end, unable to overcome their internal and external struggles.

c. ‘The mother, though already dead, seems to have had a great influence on the daughters, especially Theresa.’ Do you agree?

Yes, I agree that the mother, though already dead, seems to have had a great influence on the daughters, especially Theresa, in The Boarding House. The mother’s legacy and her role in the family continue to loom large, even after her death, shaping the daughters' actions and their relationships with their father. Although we don’t see the mother directly in the play, her influence is evident in the way the daughters navigate their lives.

Theresa, in particular, seems to carry the weight of her mother’s absence. She appears to embody many of the expectations placed on her by the mother’s influence, particularly in the way she interacts with Monsieur Durand and her role in the family’s dynamics. She is seen as a more passive figure, potentially reflecting the role her mother may have played in the household. Additionally, Theresa's decisions and attitudes toward marriage may be influenced by her understanding of what the mother’s role was in securing stability through marriage, indicating how the mother's legacy shapes her behavior.

Overall, the mother’s absence doesn't diminish her influence over the daughters. Her expectations and the patterns she set in motion continue to affect their lives, especially Theresa’s, whose actions seem to reflect the lingering influence of the mother’s presence, even in death.

d. Discuss the relationship between Monsieur Duran and his wife.

The relationship between Monsieur Durand and his wife in The Boarding House is characterized by emotional distance and a lack of genuine connection. While they have been married for many years, their interactions seem to be governed more by routine and practicality than affection or partnership. Monsieur Durand, preoccupied with his pride and the appearance of respectability, often makes decisions without consulting his wife, especially when it comes to finances. His financial mismanagement, coupled with his obsession with maintaining a façade of wealth, causes strain in their marriage. His wife, while present in the household, plays a more passive role, possibly resigned to the circumstances and the growing tension in their relationship.

Their marriage seems to be based more on social expectations and survival than on emotional intimacy or mutual understanding. The couple’s failure to communicate openly about their financial difficulties or their family’s future exacerbates their alienation from each other. Monsieur Durand's decision-making, particularly his focus on securing his daughters' futures through marriage, appears to be done without regard for his wife’s perspective or desires. This lack of communication and mutual support underscores the breakdown of their marital bond, highlighting the themes of disconnection and the hollow nature of social appearances in the play.

e. ‘Money determines the relationship between characters in this play.’ Elaborate this statement with examples from the play.

The statement "Money determines the relationship between characters in The Boarding House" is accurate, as financial concerns shape almost every interaction in the play. Monsieur Durand's relationships with his daughters, his wife, and the boarders are heavily influenced by money, and it is central to the play's themes of social class, pride, and survival.

One clear example is Monsieur Durand's treatment of his daughters. He arranges their marriages not based on love or personal choice but as a financial strategy to secure their futures. He is more concerned with marrying them off to wealthy men than considering their happiness or emotional well-being. This reflects how, in his world, marriage is a transactional arrangement rather than a romantic one, dictated by financial necessity rather than affection.

Similarly, Monsieur Durand's strained relationship with his wife is deeply rooted in money. The couple’s financial mismanagement and lack of communication create tension in their marriage. Durand’s inability to manage the boarding house properly leads to constant financial stress, and his wife, while not a dominant figure in the play, is largely affected by this situation. The family’s decline, both emotionally and financially, showcases how money undermines the foundation of their relationship.

Moreover, the boarding house itself is a symbol of how money governs the interactions between the family and the boarders. Durand’s business is run on the backs of these paying residents, and their continued presence is essential to his survival. The boarders, though not fully developed as characters, are depicted as a means to an end for Monsieur Durand—he relies on their payments to sustain his household, yet the relationships remain transactional and distant.

In sum, money is the primary force shaping the characters’ actions, decisions, and relationships in The Boarding House. Whether through marriage, familial duties, or business dealings, the pursuit of financial stability dictates how the characters relate to one another, often at the expense of emotional connections or personal fulfillment.

f. Monsieur Duran kills himself so that his daughters would get 5000 francs as the compensation from the insurancecompany. What does his plan tell us about him?

Monsieur Durand’s plan to kill himself in order for his daughters to receive 5000 francs from the insurance company reveals several aspects of his character, particularly his desperation and his misguided sense of responsibility. His decision to end his life for the sake of a financial payout underscores the extent of his financial ruin and the lengths to which he is willing to go to secure a future for his daughters, albeit in a warped and extreme way. It also highlights his inability to solve his problems through practical means, opting instead for a drastic solution in an attempt to provide them with money.

Additionally, this plan exposes Durand’s deep sense of failure as a father. Rather than taking responsibility for his family's well-being through hard work or wise decision-making, he chooses to resort to self-destruction as a final attempt to rectify his financial mistakes. His plan reflects his belief that money is the ultimate means of securing happiness or stability for his daughters, disregarding their emotional needs or the long-term consequences of his actions. It also suggests a fundamental disconnect in his understanding of what it means to care for his family—his misguided sacrifice reveals how he has been consumed by materialism and a distorted view of parental duty. In the end, his plan to commit suicide for money further underscores his tragic character, consumed by financial desperation and unable to find a healthier way to provide for those he loves.

g. Discuss Facing Death as a modern tragedy.

Modern tragedy generally refers to the oppression of the hero. It deals with the tragic events of society rather than fortune or fame. It came with a sad ending and shows the downfall of the hero. The play ‘facing death’ is a modern tragedy as it ends with the tragic death of dad hero Monsieur Durand. Modern tragedy, since used from the twentieth century, deals with various real problems rather than being obsessed with ideology. It deals with socio-economic conditions, mental health or destruction, common problems of people. The two main factors of modern tragedy are realism and naturalism.

The common man of modern society is the protagonist of modern tragedy. Anyway, it deals with the individual problems of a common man like family problems, financial problems, and socio-cultural problems to mental problems like loneliness and depression. The character becomes the victim of these problems and deals with hatred all around them.

The socio-cultural problems, fate, economic class, gender and loneliness around them embrace the character. Thus, we can say facing death is a modern tragedy as these all characters match with the protagonist of the play.

Mr. Durand is a common man and his life is full of crises. He has suffered through financial hardships and starvation. His relationship with his wife and daughters is not smooth even though he loves them very much. All of his daughters hate him. He doesn’t have money to buy even bread and he had to turn his house into a lodge to make a living. And at the end, he kills him with poison and even burns his own house for the welfare of his daughters. This sequence of the downfall of Mr. Durand demonstrates facing death as a modern tragedy.

Reference Beyond the Text

a. Write a few paragraphs describing the role of the father in the family.

While both parents are equally important, a father is an instrumental and key figure in the modern family. This is because he is the head of the family. Other tasks and roles performed by a father are unique and defined basing on the cultural background of the community that he comes from. However, from culture to culture, the fundamental tasks that are required of manhood are basically the same.

A father should always be there for his wife and children to provide the much needed love and support. Showering them with lots of cash does not necessarily indicate love and support. He should be ready to give them an ear, comfort them and spend quality time as well as quantity time with them. This is crucial in creating an emotional tie, a prerequisite for strong and healthy family relationship.

A father figure can significantly influence the life and wellbeing of their child. In families where the father figure is present, the father serves as one of the first male role models and male relationships the child will encounter. Children are extremely sensitive and observant beings and internalize relational experiences. These early interactions with their father serve as a blueprint for what a relationship with a man look like and impact both the father-son relationship, and the father-daughter relationship. This means that unhealthy relationships with a father figure can significantly impact not only the child’s psychological wellbeing, but their unconscious relational choices as they become adults.

The father therefore plays the role of loving and supporting his spouse and offspring.