The knife is a symbol that is introduced early in scene I. When the mother talks about the knife and how it can bring misfortune to man, the bridegroom consistently begs his mother to stop the rant. However, despite his efforts, the mother continues to denounce the knife. The mother shows an open fear and hatred of the knife. The bridegroom seems to show a different hatred for the knife. He doesn't like that his mother is talking about it and wishes to change the subject. I think it may be that he sees how much sadness and fear the knife brings to the mother and wishes her to avoid the knife and the fear it brings. It seems to be an act of care. The knife also connects the play with the past and the deaths of the bridegroom's father and brother. It introduces the mother's hatred toward the Felixes and the past feud in the families.
Plants were another symbol that I noticed. Flowers were mentioned in describing people such as the "two men who were like two geraniums" (7). Flowers have an image of young, fresh, and beautiful, so by describing people in this way, a certain image is created. I associated plants with the vineyard as well. The vineyard seems like a strong representation of a new life. The bridegroom was finally able to purchase it and it allowed him to get married. In a time where the bridegroom is about to get married, many changes are happening and a new life is waiting. I also noticed that some plants that aren't all that great are mentioned as well. Plants like weeds, vines, and thistles are used. This can show that there are negative sides to things, such as life. Life can be a geranium that is beautiful, but then could eventually die with weeds and vines taking over. With death present in the play, I think it is appropriate that these harmful plants are used as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment