"Trifles"

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, to indicate social expectations, Susan Glaspell in her play "Trifles" employs symbols such as the apron, quilt and jar of preserves to illustrate Mrs. Wright's breaking out of her restricted role. The author points out that the apron is used metaphorically for her status as a farm wife; by pleating the apron, it becomes a part of her, supplying comfort and releasing tension. The paper suggests that Mrs. Wright uses her quilt work to express her inner feelings; whereas, she lives like the preserves in the glass jars, preserved for a later use to build and replenish, but she never fully reaches that later use.

From the Paper:

"One way Mrs. Wright finds relief from everyday triviality is through her apron. Her apron, a shield from dirt and flour, is like a shield she puts on everyday to balance the tensions between the expectations of her husband and the day-to-day relentless tasks of housekeeping. Her apron is a part of her. It is something she wears on a daily basis that resembles her life style, the life of a farmer's wife, sweating in the kitchen over daily chores, and in most cases not truly being happy. Even in jail Mrs. Wright asks for the apron: "She said she wanted the apron. Funny thing to want, for there isn't much to get you dirty in jail. But I suppose just to make her feel more natural.""

More papers on "Trifles":

• Analytical Essay # 2148 : "Susan Glaspell's "Trifles": Suspect or Victim?"
• Comparison Essay # 73789 : "Trifles" and "Crime and Punishment"
• Book Review # 100914 : "Trifles" and Victorian Society"
• Book Review # 68980 : "Trifles"

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