Chapter 3
Mother's Day
Author: J.B. Priestley
🖋️ Introduction About the Author:
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J. B. Priestley (1894–1984) was a renowned British novelist, playwright, and essayist.
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He is well-known for his social commentary and plays with moral and political themes.
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His writing often explores issues of social justice, family dynamics, and the role of individuals in society.
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One of his most famous plays is “An Inspector Calls”.
📚 Introduction to the Chapter:
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Mother’s Day is a one-act play that deals with the status of women, especially mothers, in a traditional family setup.
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It is a satirical yet meaningful drama showing how a mother is often taken for granted.
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The play aims to promote respect, appreciation, and equality within families.
🧵 Summary:
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Mrs. Annie Pearson, a devoted mother and housewife, is underappreciated by her husband (George) and children (Doris and Cyril).
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She meets her friend Mrs. Fitzgerald, a bold and assertive woman who knows magic and astrology.
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Seeing Annie’s situation, Mrs. Fitzgerald suggests switching bodies using her magic to teach the Pearson family a lesson.
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After the switch:
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The new "Mrs. Pearson" (really Mrs. Fitzgerald in Annie’s body) starts behaving confidently and assertively.
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She refuses to do chores, criticizes their behavior, and insists that she needs respect and personal time.
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The family is shocked and confused by her transformation.
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Eventually, they start realizing her worth and agree to help more and respect her.
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At the end, the two women switch back, and Mrs. Pearson is now more confident, while the family pledges to change their behavior.
👨👩👧👦 Characters:
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Mrs. Annie Pearson – A gentle and self-sacrificing housewife, taken for granted by her family.
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Mrs. Fitzgerald – A strong, assertive neighbor who helps Annie gain confidence.
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George Pearson – Annie’s husband, a pompous man who expects his wife to serve him.
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Doris – The spoiled daughter who bosses around her mother.
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Cyril – The lazy son who does not help at home.
💡 Themes:
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Gender Roles & Inequality – Women, especially mothers, are often undervalued in households.
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Empowerment – With confidence, women can challenge unfair treatment.
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Respect & Appreciation – Family members should respect each other's efforts and not take anyone for granted.
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Transformation – Small changes in behavior and attitude can change family dynamics positively.
📝 Important Points:
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The play uses humor and irony to convey serious messages.
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Mrs. Fitzgerald acts as a catalyst for change.
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The title “Mother’s Day” is symbolic — a day to acknowledge mothers, but the play suggests mothers should be respected every day.
✍️ Moral/Message:
The play teaches that mothers are not servants, and they deserve respect, love, and recognition for their constant efforts. Equality and shared responsibilities in a family lead to harmony and happiness.
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